‘Art of the Game’: West Orange Art Event Is Inspired By Soccer And Community

WEST ORANGE, NJ — The following news release comes courtesy of the West Orange Arts Council. Find out how to post announcements or events to your local Patch site.

The West Orange Arts Council announces “Art of the Game,” a vibrant community initiative celebrating creativity and the global spirit of soccer. Local artists, students, and community members are invited to reimagine soccer balls as unique canvases and transform them into one-of-a-kind works of art.

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Inspired by the international excitement surrounding this summer’s soccer tournaments, Art of the Game includes May workshops at the West Orange Arts Center at 551 Valley Road, to guide participants in materials usage and creative approaches (RSVP required). It also includes an open call to West Orange Arts Council member artists (and soon-to-be new members) to create sculptural, painted, and mixed-media soccer balls that reflect themes of teamwork, movement, identity, culture, and connection.

The West Orange Arts Council is currently seeking sponsors and encouraging local businesses to embrace this exciting community initiative. Thanks to early support, the West Orange Arts Council received a generous donation of 100 soccer balls for the workshops from the New York Red Bulls, and art supplies from Jerry’s Artarama through the efforts of the West Orange Chamber of Commerce liaisons.

All completed soccer ball art is due for drop off at the West Orange Arts Center by May 31, 2026. An artist’s reception opening will be held on Sunday, June 7 from 4 to 7 p.m. The West Orange Public Library and additional locations for soccer ball display are being explored.

“Soccer, like art, is a universal language, and both connect us in ways that words cannot,” said Patricia Mitrano, Chair of the West Orange Arts Council. “Through this unique project, we hope to bring together artists and athletes, businesses and community, to celebrate creativity and the Art of the Game together.”

Momentum around the project continues to grow, with support and enthusiasm from local artists, civic leaders, businesses, and community partners. It aligns with the West Orange Arts Council’s ongoing commitment to creating accessible cultural programming and art experiences in West Orange and the surrounding community.

The West Orange Arts Council invites all to become part of this exciting initiative.

For more information, sponsorship opportunities, or artist participation details, visit the website WOArts.org or call the West Orange Arts Council at 973-306-4664.

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