duCret & Piscataway Cultural Heritage Commission Award Local Artists

duCret Instructor Linda Kolar
& Chair, Catherine Juttner

This past Friday evening at the municipal building, the Piscataway Cultural Heritage Commission issued to a local community of participating artists, six art awards from 75 entries. Judged by two members of the duCret School of Art, including duCret art teacher, Linda Kolar, professional artists and beginners alike were able to not only showcase their talent, but were given public recognition and a chance to have their work discussed and reviewed after the awards ceremony. Those receiving awards were: 1st place, Pen and Ink 'Lunch with a friend' by David Bachovchin, 2nd Place Oil Painting, 'Brazilian Pianist Luiz Castro' by Helen North and 3rd place Batik, 'Pondo Family - Pondoland' by June Scharff. Three honorable mentions included; a Collage, 'A Diner' by E. Carol O'Neill,  a Mixed Acrylic on Birch, 'Evening Glass' by Jack Quinn and Photography, 'Inner Reflections' by Jay I. Chin.

David Bachovchin, 'Lunch with a Friend'

Oftentimes wonderful opportunities for artists such as this are overlooked because so much media attention is placed on the global marketplace, that many people fail to recognize that most of today's legendary artists got their opportunity breaks in local community based venues. After all, didn't Bruce Springsteen start out playing in tiny bars at the Jersey shore? Whether one chooses to dabble in art or music, the general rule of thumb in life is that one thing always leads to another, and that's usually how people become successful in the long run of life. Getting out and taking a chance of entering one's artwork into local art programs can be just the boost a creative soul needs to continue on towards one's dream of success. Those usually inclined towards art, know too well that the journey of art is a self focused one, for concentration on manifesting one's gift into the outer world requires time, dedication and is often a solitary challenge. But that does not mean that all artists fare so well emotionally or financially remaining solo in their journey's to create. After all, the primary goal of any artist is to share the gifts of their soul with others and to have their work received in by many.

Helen North 'Brazilian
Pianist Luiz Castro'

Color and sound we are all now beginning to understand, has been scientifically proven to emanate healing frequencies...to the point that art therapy programs are being integrated into hospitals across the country. One way to have one's gifts of color and sound seen, heard and shared is to enter one's creative work in as many local contests and shows as possible. Last night PCTV videotaped the winners, enabling them an opportunity to have their work extended beyond just the awards ceremony and out into a greater public arena. Art entrants were also invited to have their work critiqued by the Dean of duCret School of Art Frank Falotico, a 40 year veteran artist of the local area. duCret, unbeknownst to the general public, is one of NJ's best kept secrets. Celebrating its 85th year, is it NJ's oldest private, non-profit art school and hosts a legendary history of acclaimed and award winning artists. At duCret, one never knows where one's artistic talent will take them.

June Scharff, 'Ponzo Family'

For instance, currently several of duCret's sculpting students have been hired and are featured regularly on TLC's 'Cake Boss', a popular reality show in Hoboken, NJ. Last year, Ralph Attanasia, a duCret grad and instructor traveled to Italy for an episode, an opportunity made possible by the show's producers. Now who would have thought that a sculpting class art student in a quiet and local art school could find himself sculpting cakes in front of a world audience? But there you have it - proof that one thing does indeed lead to another! If you are a creative soul who doesn't think there is any real opportunity to succeed in art - THINK again!

This summer, starting in July, duCret is offering over 35 one day to eight week art workshops. These days, no matter how bad the economy is, there's NO EXCUSE for artists to hide their talents or think 'it's no use'  or not affordable any more. Today, with digital, internet and media technology so readily available, there are more opportunities for artists to 'self express' than ever before! duCret also offers a 2 week Children & Teen Art Camp and hosts 3 Open Studio's for the general public on Tues, Wed and Thursday evenings - thus, leaving no one out of the mix. Tap our website for more information or call 908-757-7171 and reclaim YOUR DREAMS!