WheatonArts 2024 Season Kickoff
Dec. 21, 2023

Gallery 50 in Bridgeton : The Art Haven

Gallery 50 in Bridgeton : The Art Haven

Welcome to a hidden gem nestled in the heart of Bridgeton, New Jersey – Gallery 50.

Since the 1970s, this unassuming haven offers regular servings of culture to the art lovers of Cumberland County


Link to recent Gallery 50 video episode 1/25/2024:
https://www.bridgetonbeacon.com/gallery-50/ 🌿

We are thrilled to announce an upcoming interview on the Bridgeton Beacon Podcast with none other than Sharon Leonard Kiefer, the Art Director of Gallery 50. With two decades at the helm of Gallery 50 and a role as the Curator of Exhibitions for the Perkins Center for the Arts, Sharon brings a wealth of experience and passion for the arts.

Sharon's journey, from graduating with a design degree from Drexel University to her work in advertising and visual merchandising in Philadelphia, has shaped her unique perspective on the art world.  Look for that episode in January 2024, as we delve into her insights, the gallery's evolution, and the exciting future exhibitions with Gallery 50.

Link to interview:
https://www.bridgetonbeacon.com/gallery-50/ 🌿

 

Funding for such productions has been made possible, in part, by the New Jersey State Council on the Arts / Department of State, New Jersey Historical Commission / Department of State, and the Cumberland County Board of Commissioners through the Cumberland County Cultural and Heritage Commission.

 

*ALERT* - The annual 4 color Winter Plein Air Competition will be displayed at Gallery 50 from Jan 3-26 with an opening reception and awards on Friday, Jan 5 from 6-8pm! 

Winter Plein Air Competition
submission by Yvonne Mucci

Almost Winter

 

History of Gallery 50

Gallery 50, Inc. stands as a testament to the enduring spirit of art in Bridgeton. Established in the 1970s, this non-profit art gallery has become a beacon 💡 for artists, both seasoned and emerging.

The gallery's commitment to showcasing a variety of mediums has made it a vital part of the Southern New Jersey art scene.

According to Explore Cumberland NJ, Gallery 50 has been instrumental in initiating Bridgeton's 1st Friday Celebrations. Each first Friday of the month, the gallery hosts an opening celebration for their newest exhibition, inviting art lovers and artists to enjoy.

 

Artists and Exhibitions: A Monthly Unveiling

Gallery 50, Inc. proudly hosts monthly art exhibits featuring 2D and 3D art in all mediums and price points. The gallery's dedication to promoting artists is real. And each month a new artist or artists is featured with an opening on the First Friday of the current exhibition. An "oasis of culture", to quote a board member.

The opening receptions held every first Friday from 6-8 pm provide a unique opportunity for the public to interact with the artists. Entertainment and light refreshments create an inviting atmosphere, making these events a highlight for art enthusiasts in the community.

Truly a beacon of the community, Gallery 50 provides artists a platform for a myriad of medium.

 

Voices from the Visitors:
Reviews Speak Volumes

Let's hear from the art lovers themselves through reviews on TripAdvisor.

"Gallery 50 brings new artists both young and old using different media for their art to Bridgeton and the surrounding area. Each month a new artist or artists is featured with an opening on the First Friday of the current exhibition." - ConnieC, Nov 2019
"This is a must-see place if you especially want to see local artist. The have an opening night the first Friday of each month, and you get to interact with the artist." - Lisa123, Jun 2019
"Gallery 50 is now one of the more durable features of downtown Bridgeton, NJ. This small gallery (2,000 sq.ft.) has a new show every month, tastefully exhibited." - samfeinstein2015, Apr 2017

Community Impact: More Than Art

Gallery 50 extends its influence beyond the art on its walls. The gallery, run by dedicated volunteers, provides a pocket of civilization in Bridgeton, as noted by a visitor in April 2017, "This volunteer staffed small art gallery provides a pocket of civilization in Bridgeton."

Its commitment to the local community is evident in events like the Christmas Shoppe in December, offering unique gifts made by local artists and artisans. This initiative not only supports the artists but also enriches the holiday shopping experience for the community.

 

Conclusion: Where Art Flourishes

Gallery 50, Inc. stands as a testament to the power of art to transform communities. Bridgeton's artistic soul finds expression in the monthly exhibitions, the welcoming atmosphere, and the tireless efforts of volunteers. As we celebrate the history, artists, and impact of Gallery 50, we invite art lovers to explore this cultural oasis in Southern New Jersey.

For more information and upcoming events, visit Gallery 50's official website.

References:

Explore Cumberland NJ:
Cumberland County Department of Planning, Tourism & Community Affairs


Bangin' Reviews:
TripAdvisor Reviews


NJ State Council on the Arts:
NJSCA


Perkins Center for the Arts:
perkinsarts.org

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