New Showcase Of Local Arts, Businesses Coming To Burlington County

BURLINGTON CITY, NJ — A variety of locations along the Delaware River will be draped with art from May through October as part of a new initiative to showcase local works of artistic expression.

The Arts Guild of New Jersey, in collaboration with the New Jersey Economic Development Authority (NJEDA), will hold "Second Saturdays" on the second Saturday of each month at a number of sites around Burlington City.

A group of community partners will join forces with local businesses to put on galleries, workshops, and more that display the culture of the city and the surrounding region.

"We hope it tells young children that their creativity matters," President of Arts Guild New Jersey, Nisha Ray, told Patch. "It sends the message that art is not just something that happens in museums or faraway places...it can happen right here, in their own community."

Another mission Ray and other leaders hope to achieve is community connectivity, whether that's an artist with a new audience, families with each other, or residents with local businesses.

"Our goal is for people to walk away feeling that the arts are not separate from everyday life, but part of what makes a town vibrant, inclusive, and alive," added Ray.

All events are free and open to the public.

The days will also feature food and other activities for families, along with prizes of gift cards to be used at local businesses.

"In five or 10 years...our hope is that the program becomes something other communities, counties, and even states can look to as an example of how public-private collaboration can use the arts to build pride, connection, economic activity, and a stronger sense of place," said Ray.

"Second Saturdays" are supported through a NJEDA Art Phase II grant and with the help of "NJ Transit to the Arts."

The Arts Guild of New Jersey is a non-profit arts center that works to present a variety of programs for the benefit of the state and region.

The group also advocates for and provides arts education and service resources.

More information on the Arts Guild and how to get involved can be found on the organization's website.

Click here for a full list of "Second Saturdays" events.

MORE FROM PATCH: 'Hidden Gem' Woodland Area Of Camden County To Be Officially Preserved

HAVE A STORY IDEA OR NEWS TO SHARE? Contact Editor Eddie Callahan at edward.callahan@patch.com to connect with Patch in your area.