(ASBURY PARK, NJ) --  art629 Gallery presents "Peace In The Chaos" - an exhibit featuring the work of 12 local artists and 4 poets curated by Brittany James. Brittany is a local artist who has been the resident art teacher at art629 for the past 6 years where she teaches life drawing and painting classes, and hosts an open studio. The exhibit will be on display from May 15 through July 10. On Saturday, May 15, 2021 from 6:00pm-9:00pm, art629 Gallery will host an opening reception for the exhibit.

“Peace In The Chaos” is a showcase of art in different media from New York and New Jersey based artists. For many of us, this past year has unleashed emotions and thoughts that can feel chaotic or out of control. Whether your stress has come from current world events, getting interrupted by your kids on a Zoom meeting, sharing a small space with your partner, trying to figure out how to pay next months rent, worrying about your loved ones, or simply trying to stay healthy and make decisions in the face of the unknown, we've all had a chaotic year.

This show represents artists who used the meditative power of creating art to find peace in the chaos during the past year. “Peace In The Chaos” is focused specifically on artists who convey their emotions through the creative process. The exhibit will display a wide range of media from sculpture to painting to poetry.

“Peace In The Chaos” will feature the following artists: Caitlin Kohl, Carol Magnatta, Elizabeth Gregory-Gruen, Ernest Wildenhain, Fermin Mendoza, Jennifer Santa Maria,   Jessica Matier, Mallory Massara, Rupa DasGupta, and Vicki Zilatis Stoeckel. 

In addition, a book of poetry featuring Chris Rockwell, Mark Brunetti, Solange Claws, and Thomas Fucaloro, will be on display and for sale with all proceeds going to Asbury Book Cooperative. The collection of poems chosen for “Peace In The Chaos” were written during National Poetry Month during the social quarantine of 2020.  A book of these poems was published by Mark Brunetti, and the collection consists of reflections about their own writing and experiences at that time. Brittany James, curator, and her partner, gallery owner Patrick Schiavino, will also be displaying art they created while working side by side in their studio during the covid-19 pandemic.  Most artists will be attending the opening, and this event is free and open to the public. 

With current occupancy limitations in mind, we will be limiting the number of people in the gallery at one time to ensure that there is adequate space for staff, artists, and visitors to maintain physical distancing. All visitors must wear face coverings while in the gallery, and restrooms will not be open to the public. They ask that you plan your visit with this in mind. The exhibit will be on display from May 15 through July 10. Gallery hours vary, and it is suggested to call ahead for hours of operation or to make an appointment: (908) 278-1597. To view the exhibition virtually please visit art629.com/current-exhibition

art629 Gallery was founded by artist Patrick Schiavino in 2009.  The gallery is a mainstay on Cookman Avenue, in the heart of downtown Asbury Park, and has been host of many shows including painting, photography, sculpture, theater, spoken word, and musical events like the Asbury Underground. The gallery is dedicated to the exhibition of fine and contemporary art with the objective of giving all artists a voice while bringing new ideas to the region. 

IMAGE: “Rise Above”, Oil on Canvas, 48” x 36” by Fermin Mendoza