My name is Cathy Anderson Klisiewicz. I grew up in Florham Park, NJ. My husband, Len, and I have been married for 52 years and we have a son, a daughter, and two grandsons. We moved “down the shore” to Manasquan in 1975 and raised our family here.
Mosaics are my primary interest but I also enjoy working in other media. I find it very satisfying to refinish old tables, hand cut the borders from vintage china dinnerware, use the pieces to create unique designs on the table surface, and then seal the designs with a 2-part resin. I use tables that I find at antique stores, thrift stores and flea markets, but also take commissions using client-provided furniture.
Another passion is to use eggshells, yes, real eggshells, to create earrings. I paint the shells in unusual color combinations that can be worn to coordinate with or highlight other articles of clothing.
Over the years I’ve worked in a variety of other media including needlework, macrame hangings and necklaces, origami, seashell ornaments, and decorative and acrylic painting. Recently I’ve been experimenting with alcohol inks to create paintings on ceramic tiles, Yupo paper and canvas. Some of my designs are abstract and others are stylized takes on elements of nature.
Coming from a family of artists I cannot remember a time that art hasn’t intrigued me. Other than art courses in high school and a few classes in acrylic painting in later years, I am a self-taught artist who is always interested in learning new media. It seems that there is never enough time to explore all the forms that catch my eye.
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.
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.
“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.”
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.
Sherry Phillips
