Art in the Park Showcases Some Unique Talents

The 13th Annual Art in the Park event once again triumphed in spreading art to the local community as well as kicking off the summer in fun and creative ways.

The Long Branch Arts Council and the Long Branch Historical Association hosted the event at West End Park from 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. on Sunday at West End Park in Long Branch. This is the Long Branch Arts Council’s fourth year running the event. 

Head coordinator Mare Akana said the council worked extremely hard updating the show for this year.

"We want to promote and nurture artists," Akana said.

Long Branch Historical Association volunteer Chris Crowder said the goal of their participation in Art in the Park is to spread the importance of the history of Long Branch while aiding in the restoration of The Church of the Presidents, located at 1260 Ocean Ave.

A best in show-type contest was judged by Jimmy Leslie, a former Monmouth University professor within the Art & Design department who is currently a representative for ColArt America.  Artists won awards for best photography, sculpture and more.

Freelance artist Ronnie Jackson has showcased his work at the event for five years.  Along with running a freelance art business, he paints with a myriad of media from motorcycles to kids bedrooms. 

“I’m a local,” Jackson said, “this is where I should be.”

Jackson was not the only Jersey Shore local participating in the event.  Toms River resident Michael Andrew Taylor is a recycled metal artist, a trade he learned from his father.  His pieces range from $40-300 depending on the amount of time and materials utilized.  Taylor enjoys the event every year because of the synergy between all of his fellow artists.

Visitors enjoyed live music by the Paul Marino Band as they browsed the eclectic array of art.  The band’s set included a fantastic cover of The Beatles’ “Here Comes the Sun,” an excellent choice for the bright and beautiful beach day.