Doug Safranek works in egg tempera. The centuries-old practice of mixing pigment with egg yolk gives the finished painting a waxy luminescence. It is a labor-intensive process, and an unexpected medium for his renderings of modern urban life. Mr. Safranek also paints sensitive portraits and still lifes, and teaches at Art Student’s League.

Jan Huling uses beads to create intricate, gemlike patterns that transform flea market finds into objects of beauty and wonderment. Her works are often based on doll or animal forms, but she has beaded many other items, including kazoos, which represented her first efforts. Shown is a detail from The Gown, her largest work to date. The form, created with 3D printers, was based on the wedding dress worn in turn by Ms. Huling’s mother, herself, and her two sisters. The project took a year to complete. Her work has been exhibited in many museums, and can be seen at the Morris Museum February 23 - May 26, 2024.

Jeff De Boer creates impressive suits of armor based on different historical eras, such as samurai, gladiators, and crusaders. Amazingly, these intricate works are designed to fit cats and mice! Mr. De Boer studied Jewelry at Alberta College of Art and Design, but did not like jewelry making, only the techniques used. So he started doing this. I believe it is safe to say that he is the only artist doing this!

Powerhouse Arts is a not-for-profit organization committed to creative expression. Newly opened in May, it occupies a 170,000 ft. building that was once Brooklyn Rapid Transit Company’s Power station. The building was abandoned since the 1970’s, but has been renovated into facilities and studios for artists, fabrication professionals and educators, plus event space for public art, education and events. We will get a virtual tour of the space via ZOOM, and learn about the organization’s mission, what they do, and how they benefit the art community.

Philip Smallwood has been busy since he appeared as a CAA guest artist via zoom in 2021. The critically acclaimed watercolorist was named the first ever Artist-in-Residence at Fairleigh Dickinson University, where he conducted interactive workshops, discussions and critiques. We are thrilled that he will direct his wisdom and insight our way by critiquing our member’s work at the annual holiday party. It is sure to be a lively and informative evening.

Woolpunk works in fiber arts. She makes sculptures with yarn that she calls waterfalls or tornadoes, and photographs embroidered and overlaid with vintage fabrics. She has created commissioned pieces for the windows of Bergdorf Goodman, the World Trade Center, and the Cathedral of St. John the Divine.

Alix DeFabbia-Kane is a glass and ceramics artist who strives to create well-crafted pieces that are as functional as they are beautiful. She discovered glass blowing as a student at Massachusetts College of Art and Design, and by her senior year was so proficient she was teaching classes there.

Multimedia artist Jane Brennan will return with the wonderful alcohol ink workshop she presented for us last October. October 3, 1:30 to 4:30, at Trinity Episcopal Church. Ms. Brennan will supply all the materials needed, so you just have to show up, learn, have fun, and take home something beautiful. Click HERE for sign-up form.

Sarah Canfield is a multidisciplinary artist working in collage, multi-media, sculpture, photography, painting and pastel. She combines a background in traditional painting with an interest in technology, with amazing results. Her layered lightboxes are extraordinary.