Let Our Passion Tell Your Story
Combining Forgotten Techniques with years of exprience
At PortraitsNJ, every pastel portrait begins with a story. We take the time to learn about the people we draw, listening to the memories, emotions, and little details that make each subject unique. Using time-honored pastel techniques that have nearly disappeared from modern art, we bring those stories to life with warmth and authenticity. Each piece becomes more than a portrait—it becomes a lasting reflection of love, history, and the moments that matter most.
Select Exhibitions
Community Impacts
Starting 2024
PortraitsNJ: Continues to wow at JCC Gaelen Gallery
PortraitsNJ has found a true home at the JCC Gaelen Gallery in West Orange, earning recognition year after year in this highly competitive juried show. Building on this continued success, we’re thrilled to now have gallery display space for two months each year, featuring both duo and solo exhibitions. It’s an honor to share our work in a space that celebrates artistic excellence and supports artists in connecting with the community.
Starting 2022
Hackensack Library Gallery Expansion
Hackensack Public Library, in partnership with Marseglia Art Gallery, has established an annual tradition of showcasing PortraitsNJ artwork throughout the year, highlighting how portraiture can evolve to tell stories beyond the faces. Past exhibitions have included Coven of the Femme Fetal, Sites of Fright: An Exploration of Myth and Mystery, Rutherford Community, Echoes of the Heart, and Whispers of Color. Through joint sales, the gallery has been able to support additional art programs, with proceeds from artwork donations helping to fund new opportunities for artists and the community alike.
Starting 2007
Thirteen Years an Instructor | A Legacy in Art Education and Community Engagement
Founded by the visionary behind PortraitsNJ, the organization’s founder served as an art instruction initiator and established the KIP Center, running programs from 2007 to 2021. This exhibition showcases not only the works of PortraitsNJ but also over 200 pieces created by students at the senior center. By combining art education with art theory, these pioneering programs fostered community involvement and played a key role in advancing local art groups and securing art grants for seniors in the area. The show celebrates both the creativity of its participants and the lasting impact of these innovative initiatives.
Tradition Starting 2018
Partnering with Rutherford Pride Fest
PortraitsNJ has been a longtime community and vending partner for the Rutherford Pride Alliance’s Annual Pride Fest and Vendor Show. By combining engaging community events, live demonstrations, and dedicated booth space, PortraitsNJ has consistently supported the celebration of art and creativity. We look forward to continuing our partnership with this incredible organization, providing both professional and enthusiast artists a welcoming space to showcase their work and connect with the community.
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