West Essex High School Art Club Carves Pumpkins for "Gardens Aglow" Event Friday night in Montclair

The West Essex Art Club carved pumpkins in a gargoyle theme for the "Gardens Aglow," display at the Essex County Presby Memorial Iris Gardens in Montclair October 26. The pumpkins, which the club carved October 24 and 25 in Eileen Dormer's art room, will be featured in the lighted display with pumpkins made by students at other Essex County high schools in botanical or Halloween themes.  

The schools participating in this year’s Gardens Aglow event include (but not limited to): Belleville Senior High School, Bloomfield High School, Christ the King Preparatory School, East Side High School, Irvington High School, Livingston Senior High School, Malcolm X Shabazz High School, Millburn Senior High School, Montclair High School, Nutley High School, University High School, Verona High School, West Caldwell Tech High School, West Essex High School, and West Orange High School.

The prizes given to the high school art classes cover various categories to encourage imaginative contributions, with visitors having the opportunity to vote for a “Community Choice” category. So, be sure to come out and support your local school display! Last year, West Essex High School took top honors in the botanical category for their “Jersey Fresh” pumpkins representing produce grown in the Garden State. This year, the high school Art Club, advised by Eileen Dormer, is back to defend its championship with a theme of Garden Gargoyles.

 The Essex County Presby Memorial Iris Gardens are located at 474 Upper Mountain Avenue in Upper Montclair. The event, which is free, will features live music, children's activities, spooky stories and refreshments.
(The rain date is Saturday, October 27^th.)