Sussex County Arts & Heritage Council upcoming events

2026 Senior Citizens Art Contest and Exhibition (Thursday, August 27, 2026)

Thu, 27 Aug 2026 04:00:00 GMT

2026 Senior Citizens Art Contest and Exhibition

Exhibition On View: August 27 - October 1

This exhibition invites artists age 60 and older who reside in Sussex County to share their work in a celebration of creativity across all artistic mediums. Whether you are a lifelong professional or a passionate hobbyist, this exhibition provides an opportunity to showcase your unique perspective and connect with the community through art.

Artwork in all mediums will be accepted and judged in both Professional and Non-Professional categories. First-place winners in each category will earn the opportunity to represent Sussex County at the 2026 New Jersey State Senior Citizens Annual Juried Art Contest & Exhibition, where they will compete alongside outstanding senior artists from across the state.

Join us in honoring the remarkable creativity and lifelong artistic contributions of Sussex County's senior community.

See our Senior Citizens Web Page for more information.

Intermediate Pen and Ink Class (Thursday, October 01, 2026)

Thu, 01 Oct 2026 22:00:00 GMT

Intermediate Pen and Ink Class

Session 1: Thursday, October 1 from 6-8 PM

Session 2: Thursday, October 8 from 6-8 PM

Session 3: Thursday, October 15 from 6-8 PM

SCAHC Spring Street Gallery – 133 Spring Street | Newton, NJ 07860

Take your pen and ink skills to the next level in this three-session intermediate course focused on creating greater depth, dimension, and movement in your drawings. Building on foundational techniques, students will explore perspective, cross-contour lines, and three-dimensional rendering while gaining confidence in applying these skills to real-world subjects.

Session One: Explore one-, two-, and three-point perspective, along with techniques for placing objects accurately within three-dimensional space.

Session Two: Learn how to use cross-contour lines to better understand form and create the illusion of three-dimensional objects through line and shading.

Session Three: Put your skills into practice with a still life drawing. Students will apply techniques from previous beginner courses along with those introduced throughout this intermediate class, building confidence through hands-on, real-time application.

Price: $ 135.00

Senior Citizens Exhibition Pick Up (Friday, October 02, 2026)

Fri, 02 Oct 2026 15:00:00 GMT

Senior Citizens Exhibition Pick Up

Pick Up of artwork:

Friday, October 2: 11AM - 4PM

Saturday, October 3: 1PM - 4PM

For more information on this exhibition, visit out official Senior Citizens Webpage.

Senior Citizens Exhibition Pick Up (Saturday, October 03, 2026)

Sat, 03 Oct 2026 17:00:00 GMT

Senior Citizens Exhibition Pick Up

Pick Up of artwork:

Friday, October 2: 11AM - 4PM

Saturday, October 3: 1PM - 4PM

For more information on this exhibition, visit out official Senior Citizens Webpage.

Halloween Glass Fusion Night Lights (Saturday, October 03, 2026)

Sat, 03 Oct 2026 17:00:00 GMT

Halloween Glass Fusion Night Lights

Saturday, October 3 from 1-3 PM

SCAHC Spring Street Gallery – 133 Spring Street | Newton, NJ 07860

Create two one-of-a-kind glass nightlights while spending quality time with family, friends, or colleagues! This fun, hands-on glass fusion workshop is perfect for beginners and creatives of all levels.

Whether you already have an idea in mind or prefer a little inspiration, our instructor Marcelle Rollinger will help you bring your Halloween or Fall-themed night lights to life. Marcelle will guide you step-by-step through the entire process — from learning about the different types of glass (including sheets, frit, vitrograph, stringers, and glass paint) to cutting, designing, and assembling your pieces.

Once complete, your creations will be kiln-fired for 12 hours and carefully cooled for another 12. You will receive and email when your pieces are ready for pickup.

Non-Member Price: $ 65.00

SCAHC Member Price: $ 55.00

FFDP / Veterans Price: $ 55.00

Go to our Workshops and Classes page to reserve your spot.

Guided Painting with Elaine Kurie: Tuscany Rosemary Fields (Sunday, October 04, 2026)

Sun, 04 Oct 2026 17:00:00 GMT

Guided Painting with Elaine Kurie: Tuscany Rosemary Fields

Sunday, October 4 from 1-3 PM

SCAHC Spring Street Gallery – 133 Spring Street | Newton, NJ 07860

Follow along step-by-step and paint this Tuscany scene of rolling hills, cypress trees, and rosemary bushes in only two hours!

In this class we’ll use acrylics on a 11x14” canvas and all supplies are included.

You’ll learn brush techniques, blending, easy to learn perspective, and how to mix colors to achieve a sense of depth and distance by using various colors and tones.

At the end of the class you’ll take home a painting you’ll be proud of!

Non-Member Price: $70

SCAHC Member Price: $60

FFDP / Veterans Price: $60

Sign up for this class on our Workshops and Classes page.

Luminous Watercolors with Denise Cocchiaro (Tuesday, October 06, 2026)

Tue, 06 Oct 2026 15:00:00 GMT

Luminous Watercolors with Denise Cocchiaro

Session 1: Tuesday, October 6 from 11 AM-1:30 PM

Session 2: Tuesday, October 13 from 11 AM-1:30 PM

Session 3: Tuesday, October 20 from 11 AM-1:30 PM

Session 4: Tuesday, October 27 from 11 AM-1:30 PM

SCAHC Spring Street Gallery – 133 Spring Street | Newton, NJ 07860

Luminous Watercolors is a four-session course designed for learners with little to moderate watercolor experience who want to develop confidence, control, and superior artistic expression. Students will explore essential watercolor techniques with an emphasis on luminosity – the use of light, layering and color harmony to create vibrant, glowing paintings.

Denise Chocchiaro is an award-winning watercolor artist whose work has been widely recognized and published in several magazines. Through luminous washes and transparent color, Denise captures intimate, magical moments that reveal not only the form of her subjects but their essence and spirit. Denise has taught watercolor classes and private students for many years and is known for her supportive and inspiring teaching style.

Price for all four sessions: $280

Go to our workshops and classes page for the syllabus, supply list, and to sign up for this class.

Intermediate Pen and Ink Class (Thursday, October 08, 2026)

Thu, 08 Oct 2026 22:00:00 GMT

Intermediate Pen and Ink Class

Session 1: Thursday, October 1 from 6-8 PM

Session 2: Thursday, October 8 from 6-8 PM

Session 3: Thursday, October 15 from 6-8 PM

SCAHC Spring Street Gallery – 133 Spring Street | Newton, NJ 07860

Session One: Explore one-, two-, and three-point perspective, along with techniques for placing objects accurately within three-dimensional space.

Session Two: Learn how to use cross-contour lines to better understand form and create the illusion of three-dimensional objects through line and shading.

Price: $ 135.00

Revolutionary Lives Exhibition On View (Friday, October 09, 2026)

Fri, 09 Oct 2026 04:00:00 GMT

Exhibit On View: October 9 - October 23

New Jersey's diversity mirrors its Revolutionary narrative. Like today, the state was a rich mix of distinct languages, religions, and cultures. Loyalties were roughly divided between those supporting the Revolution, those opposed, and the rest who were uncommitted. Allegiances bred bitter divisions and deep suspicion, creating in many ways a civil war. By the end of the War, the state suffered more damage than most and endured more violent clashes than any other.

The traveling exhibition explores this tumultuous period through the stories of everyday people under extraordinary circumstances. They urge us to consider how their stories echo through time, and what we can do to fulfill the promises and ideals of the Revolution.

Don't miss your chance to see this exhibition, it will only be at SCAHC for two weeks!

See the Web Page for more details.

16th Annual Heritage Weekend (Saturday, October 10, 2026)

Sat, 10 Oct 2026 04:00:00 GMT

Don't miss our 16th Annual Sussex County Heritage Weekend!

Saturday, October 10 and
Sunday, October 11, 2026

Discover the rich history, culture, and stories that make Sussex County unique!

Founded in 2011, Heritage Weekend showcases the area's diverse historical treasures by highlighting local museums, historic sites, organizations, and historical societies. This annual event gives visitors the opportunity to explore the people, places, and events that have shaped our community.

Visit our official Heritage Weekend webpage for a list of special events and an interactive map!

Pop-Up Art Show and Sale (Sunday, October 11, 2026)

Sun, 11 Oct 2026 15:00:00 GMT

Pop-Up Art Show – One Day Only!

Sunday, October 11 | 11:00 AM – 4:00 PM

Newton Municipal Building, 39 Trinity Street, Newton, NJ

Join us for Sussex County Arts & Heritage Council’s Pop-Up Art Show, happening during the lively Newton Fall Festival and Car Show!

Experience an exciting showcase of original artwork by talented local artists—no theme, just pure creativity. Whether you're an art enthusiast or just soaking in the festival vibes, this free event is a must-see!

Be part of Newton’s vibrant arts scene!
Interested in exhibiting your work? Visit our Pop-Up Art Show webpage for artist entry details, including artwork drop-off dates and times.

History Talk: Women and the American Revolution (Sunday, October 11, 2026)

Sun, 11 Oct 2026 17:00:00 GMT

Women and the American Revolution

Sunday, October 11 from 1-2 PM

This Heritage Weekend, step beyond the familiar stories of founding fathers and battlefield victories—and discover the powerful, often overlooked women who shaped the American Revolution.

Join Joel Farkas for an illuminating history talk that brings to life 25 remarkable women who broke the mold and defied 18th-century expectations. At a time when women were expected to remain silent and unseen, they became spies, strategists, writers, business owners, and even soldiers. Their courage, intelligence, and resilience helped fuel a revolution—and transform a nation in the making.

Location: 129 Spring Street | Newton, NJ

Suggested Donation: $5

Register in advance to guarantee your spot!

Luminous Watercolors with Denise Cocchiaro (Tuesday, October 13, 2026)

Tue, 13 Oct 2026 15:00:00 GMT

Luminous Watercolors with Denise Cocchiaro

Session 1: Tuesday, October 6 from 11 AM-1:30 PM

Session 2: Tuesday, October 13 from 11 AM-1:30 PM

Session 3: Tuesday, October 20 from 11 AM-1:30 PM

Session 4: Tuesday, October 27 from 11 AM-1:30 PM

SCAHC Spring Street Gallery – 133 Spring Street | Newton, NJ 07860

Price for all four sessions: $280

Go to our workshops and classes page for the syllabus, supply list, and to sign up for this class.

Intermediate Pen and Ink Class (Thursday, October 15, 2026)

Thu, 15 Oct 2026 22:00:00 GMT

Intermediate Pen and Ink Class

Session 1: Thursday, October 1 from 6-8 PM

Session 2: Thursday, October 8 from 6-8 PM

Session 3: Thursday, October 15 from 6-8 PM

SCAHC Spring Street Gallery – 133 Spring Street | Newton, NJ 07860

Session One: Explore one-, two-, and three-point perspective, along with techniques for placing objects accurately within three-dimensional space.

Session Two: Learn how to use cross-contour lines to better understand form and create the illusion of three-dimensional objects through line and shading.

Price: $ 135.00

Halloween Bash Fundraiser (Saturday, October 17, 2026)

Sat, 17 Oct 2026 22:00:00 GMT

Halloween Bash Fundraiser

Saturday, October 17 from 6-10 PM

Lafayette House – 75 Route 115 | Lafayette, NJ

Join us for an evening of dancing, delicious food, drinks, and Halloween revelry while supporting Sussex County Arts & Heritage Council!

Get into the Halloween spirit with a costume and enter our Costume Contest for a chance to win cash prizes - or just come as you are and enjoy the fun!

Have your likeness captured by a talented caricature artist, enjoy a delicious buffet dinner, and grab a drink from our open wine and beer bar during happy hour. Then hit the dance floor or warm up your voice for a live DJ and Karaoke - dance (or sing!) the night away with your favorite tunes! A cash bar will also be available throughout the evening.

Whether you come for the costumes, the dancing, the singing, the food, or just a great night out for a good cause, there’s something for everyone at this Halloween celebration!

Don’t miss your chance to join the fun and support SCAHC!

Price: $125

Caricature Artist Portraits: $25

Go to our Halloween Bash Fundraiser Page for more information.

Luminous Watercolors with Denise Cocchiaro (Tuesday, October 20, 2026)

Tue, 20 Oct 2026 15:00:00 GMT

Luminous Watercolors with Denise Cocchiaro

Session 1: Tuesday, October 6 from 11 AM-1:30 PM

Session 2: Tuesday, October 13 from 11 AM-1:30 PM

Session 3: Tuesday, October 20 from 11 AM-1:30 PM

Session 4: Tuesday, October 27 from 11 AM-1:30 PM

SCAHC Spring Street Gallery – 133 Spring Street | Newton, NJ 07860

Price for all four sessions: $280

Go to our workshops and classes page for the syllabus, supply list, and to sign up for this class.

Thomas Edison Film Festival (Sunday, October 25, 2026)

Sun, 25 Oct 2026 19:00:00 GMT

Thomas Edison Film Festival

Sunday, October 25 | 3-6 PM

Sussex County Community College Student Center Theater
1 College Hill Road, Newton NJ - Building D

Sussex County Community College and Sussex County Arts & Heritage Council present selected award-winning shorts from the Thomas Edison Film Festival 2026 season and archive from China, England, Germany, Ireland, Japan, and the US.

Full Schedule:

3-4 PM: Screening Session One
4-4:15 PM: Q&A with John Schnall
4:15-5 PM: Intermission with Snacks
5-6 PM: Screening Session Two

The Thomas Edison Film Festival (TEFF) is an international showcase celebrating innovation in filmmaking, inspired by the pioneering vision of Thomas Edison. Since its inception in 1981, TEFF has sought to honor Edison’s legacy by promoting creativity and artistry in the moving image, much like how Edison’s films revolutionized visual storytelling, and his phonograph changed the way people experienced sound.

Enjoy 9 selected films along with a Q&A session with special guest filmmaker and animator John Schnall. Go to our website at scahc.org for more information.

Admission: $25

Student Admission: $10

Get Tickets.

See a full list of films being shown.

Luminous Watercolors with Denise Cocchiaro (Tuesday, October 27, 2026)

Tue, 27 Oct 2026 15:00:00 GMT

Luminous Watercolors with Denise Cocchiaro

Session 1: Tuesday, October 6 from 11 AM-1:30 PM

Session 2: Tuesday, October 13 from 11 AM-1:30 PM

Session 3: Tuesday, October 20 from 11 AM-1:30 PM

Session 4: Tuesday, October 27 from 11 AM-1:30 PM

SCAHC Spring Street Gallery – 133 Spring Street | Newton, NJ 07860

Price for all four sessions: $280

Go to our workshops and classes page for the syllabus, supply list, and to sign up for this class.

Mosaic Charcuterie Board Workshop (Saturday, November 07, 2026)

Sat, 07 Nov 2026 15:00:00 GMT

Mosaic Charcuterie Board Workshop

Saturday, November 7 from 10 AM-12 PM

Create a one-of-a-kind Decorative Mosaic Charcuterie Board in this hands-on workshop! You’ll design and assemble a beautiful mosaic board using colorful glass and ceramic tiles while learning the basics of layout, adhesive application, and grouting.

Choose from a variety of colors and patterns to make your board uniquely yours. No prior mosaic experience is needed, and all materials and step-by-step instruction are included.

Your finished piece is perfect for displaying in your kitchen, giving as a handmade gift for the upcoming holiday season, or using as a decorative serving board.

Come ready to relax, get creative, and enjoy a fun mosaic-making experience!

Please note there will be a demo of the grouting process in the workshop but we will not grout together for the integrity of your piece. All grout supplies and a video will be provided to finish your piece at your convenience.

Non-Member Price: $100

SCAHC Member Price: $90

FFDP / Veterans Price: $90