ARTIST OF THE MONTH
Jennifer Ritchie
Painting with Jewelry
Jennifer is an ecoconscient New Jersey artist who loves to create scenes full of visual and textile interest. Her concern for the environment fused with her love for creativity, led her to repurposing fun and unique treasures, by turning them into art.
A Chilean born and self-taught artist, Jennifer has taken a diverse journey over the creativity map. From her early years she experimented with ceramic painting, clay modeling, jewelry making, clothes designing, sewing, cake decorating, and owning an art & gifts store. Believing in fair trade, she pioneered an artist cooperative shop in Lafayette, New Jersey featuring local artists and artisans as well as fair trade items from around the world. She has now set her efforts to “Painting with Jewelry”.
Jennifer finds her inspiration in nature, creating underwater life stories, gardens and day/night scenic landscapes. She also gets inspired by the jewelry itself as she lets the pieces of jewelry tell her what they want to be. Some of the jewelry become faces, while others become trees or animals. She also creates city skylines, embellished keepsake boxes, and desk accessories.
Every piece of artwork in the collection is handmade and designed by Jennifer. Each piece of jewelry is thoughtfully chosen, then carefully and gracefully placed to create a story. No two artworks are ever identical.
Jennifer very much enjoys what she does and she hopes it shows in what she creates. She wants to inspire others to make earth friendly choices by purchasing art made with the environment in mind.
The Galleria
AN ART HAVEN & DESTINATION SINCE 2002
The Main Avenue Galleria is a haven for art-seekers and artists alike. We are passionate about supporting artists’ livelihoods and return 75% of your purchase to our members. Enjoy an eclectic mix of fine and fun art, home and commercial décor, art supplies, custom framing and wearable art. Shop online or visit us in historic Ocean Grove, New Jersey — a Victorian seaside retreat just 90 minutes from New York and Philadelphia.
BROWSE THE GALLERYThe School of Art
CLASSES FOR ALL AGES & ABILITIES
Join us for private and group art classes and workshops, corporate team building, Sips & Serendipity guided painting evenings and art-themed parties. We offer over fifteen classes with more being added every day. This is the place to shop for the perfect course to learn a new skill, or to enhance your painting prowess. Courses range from Basic Drawing to Pastel Painting to Jewelry Making, Doll Making, Quilting and more.
Invest In Yourself
ART STUDENT TESTIMONIAL
“Continue what you are doing! Teaching us painting techniques—like how to use the brushes and achieve special effects—is the value-added benefit from attending a Main Avenue Galleria Sips & Serendipity event. It is clear that Norma cares greatly about teaching and making her painting guests feel they’ve learned something.”
Custom Framing
The Main Avenue Galleria offers custom framing services in a broad range of prices and all-wood styles. Consult with owner and artist, Norma Tolliver to ensure your art, memorabilia, and heirlooms are beautifully displayed.
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