Nurturing the creative spirit

Markeim Arts Center fundraises for itself to keep year-long classes going

The Markeim Arts Center in Haddonfield held fundraisers during August at Iron Hill Brewery in Voorhees to keep itself up and running.

Magician and illusionist Kevin Bethea was at Iron Hill each Tuesday performing tricks and entertaining diners. Proceeds from the fundraiser go back to the community through the center’s multiple classes and camps, some of them free.

This fall’s classes offered include:

• Kids Art and Clay Classes

• Adult Gallery and Clay Studio Classes

• Pop-Up Special Classes

• Art of Culture Immersive Experiences

• Exhibitions by Local Artists and Photographers

The arts center also offers Kids Summer Art Camp and School’s Out Kids Camps in spring and fall. As summer ends, it will feature Golden Tree’s Watercolor Workshops beginning next month.

“Join us for a truly enchanting experience at our Golden Trees Watercolor Workshop,” the center’s website says. “Led by renowned watercolor artist and returning teacher, Sharon Ann, this workshop promises a beautiful venue and an opportunity to nurture your creative spirit.

“Whether you are a beginner eager to explore the world of watercolor or a returning artist seeking to refine your skills, this workshop is perfect for you.”

A attendees will learn various techniques and create their own 9×11 work that captures the essence of nature’s golden trees. This workshop will take place on Sep. 18 with tickets for arts center members starting at $60 and for non-members $70. Ticket links are available on the website.

Markeim Marketing Director Amy Marks noted that the center is always looking for more volunteers to help out with events.

“When we have exhibits and events, it’s nice to have extra help,” she said. “Most of the things we do are completely for free … I really advocate for being a member, because with membership, there are wonderful perks and benefits that people can take advantage of.”

The center will host a special event on Sunday, Sept. 10, a Sunday brunch and the opening reception for a new exhibit, “The Art of Joey Rihl and Jay Miller.  Admission for non-members is $8 and $5 for members. Brunch will be served courtesy of board member Rosie Hymerling.

Rihl is a Merchantville resident who grew up in Haddonfield and volunteered at Markeim in his youth. He has trained in classical realism for years and studied at Studio Incamminati in Philadelphia. He finds the inspiration for his works in history, literature, theatre and classic films. Rihl reates his art using oil paints and graphite/ink on paper.

Jay Miller’s background includes study at the Pennsylvania Academy of Fine Arts, painting full-time and work in the graphic arts industry. Using acrylics and mixed media, much of his work expresses the dynamic tension between order and chaos that shapes our mutual reality.

The Voorhees Arts Commission will hold a free community event on Saturday, Sept. 30, from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Healing Art For A Hero’s Heart  will feature the Tri-State Canine Response Team.

Marks is involved in that project as well.

“We have been doing this since 2019,” she said. Healing Art for a Hero’s Heart gets us together about six times a year giving people the opportunity to hand paint thank you cards to deployed veterans …

“It’s a great event.”

For more information on all events, visit the websites for the Markeim Arts Center and Voorhees Arts Commission.

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