BEYOND THE SURFACE:
A Deeper Look at Women’s Influence at the Long Branch Arts & Cultural Center
Long Branch – The Long Branch Arts and Cultural Center has a vibrant new exhibit for Women’s History Month, which will run through the end of March. Each artist's work contributes a unique layer to the exhibit, offering diverse interpretations of what it means to be a female artist. Their distinct approaches—spanning portraiture, floral imagery, and abstracts—each channel a powerful energy that celebrates femininity in its own compelling way.
Cathy Corcione, a Long Branch native, paints women from Long Branch in their element, capturing personalities and sharing memories. She writes, "Everyone looked out for one another. The women were in charge. They didn't drive, but they knew how to get around. And you didn't want to mess with them. The doors were never locked. There was always food and a welcoming smile.” Corcione describes the painting of Mrs. Pocaro in her kitchen on Willow Avenue in Long Branch in the 1950's & 1960's.
Long Branch resident, Andrea Phox, well-known for her photography business, showcases her diverse talents in the arts, with whimsical paintings briming with imaginative narrative.
Celia Cohen is a Long Branch resident, a mother, grandmother and great-grandmother, who is proud of her heritage within the Syrian community. Flowers serve as a central motif in her paintings, capturing the ephemeral beauty of nature and the enduring spirit of artistic inspiration.
"This exhibit serves as a powerful reminder of the many roles women embody in their everyday lives., Outreach Manager, Michal DiMiceli expressed. “Just like no two women are alike, the works on display reflect the wide range of diverse experiences, styles, and interpretations. "
At its heart, this exhibit also celebrates the power of women uplifting one another. There is strength found in community when women inspire, support, and elevate each other to practice growth and creativity. Together, these works honor the individuality and complexity of what it means to be a woman balancing the many layers of her life.
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