Yoland Navarra Fleming, My Soul is a Tree (Detail), Mixed-media gouache on canvas, 40 x 30 in

(MIDDLETOWN, NJ) -- The Middletown Arts Center presents its February exhibition, Meant to Be, a group show exploring themes of connection and unity, featuring work by more than 25 artists across a wide range of media. Curated by Eleanor James and Jennifer Watson, the show will be on view February 2-27, 2026.

Meant to Be is a representation of connection and the coming together of different worlds in a time of divide. Politics, culture, religion and even truth seem to be in a place of subjectivity and separation. This collection of works focuses on hope of collaboration, unity and compassion.

The pieces selected encompass the notion of relationships, showing juxtapositions of people, places, time and space. They embrace the idea that the universe brings things together naturally and without force. Some of the works chosen provide balance, mirroring images, and collide to demonstrate this concept of coming together.

Warm tones contrasting with black and white images are an example of how the differences in our environment can be brought together with common themes.

During the month of February, a time known for love and connection, the curators have selected works that mirror how kindness and compassion can be brought together to unite artists and art lovers alike in our communities; That the show of works presented was simply meant to be.

There will be an Opening Reception on Saturday, February 7 from 6:00pm-8:00pm. The reception is free and open to the public.

Participating artists include: Lisa Bagwell, Caroline DeFelice, Summer Deaver, John Michael de Poortere, Franki DeSaro, Jennifer DiZefalo, Yolanda Navarra Fleming, Yolanda Navarra Fleming, Wynn Gay, Suzan Globus, Gary Steven Groves, Lisa Ficarelli Halpern, Seth Ruggles Hiler, Donna Kessinger, Kevin Kinner, Jane Kleiman, Michael Mazzeo, Ellen Martin, Monica Nask, Andrea Phox, Mona Pollard, Stacey Pritchard, Abby Rarig, Elaine Shor, Victoria Steele, Judi Tavill and Matt Wieczkowski.

The Middletown Arts Center (MAC) is an award-winning, state-of-the-art facility in Middletown, New Jersey that offers performances, exhibits, classes, demonstrations and camps centering on the arts. Its convenient location across from the Middletown train station on Church Street enables easy access and its expanded MAC Annex is minutes away at the Middletown Reformed Church’s Education Building. The MAC is operated by a non-profit 501c3, the Middletown Township Cultural and Arts Council which is dedicated to bringing quality arts programming and events to Middletown and surrounding communities.