The Phillipsburg Area Arts Community (PAAC) held a free Mardi Gras Mask Making & Sculpture Hat Design Open Studio on Friday, Feb. 1, at the old Union Station by the Black Bridge, 178 S. Main Street. It was a colorful cacophony of feathers, beads, sequins, and ribbon. 

Among those in attendance were the “St. Luke’s Krewe”: (l-r) Maria Goldschmitt and Gisela Coppola, from Phillipsburg, and Denise Ibrahim, from Easton, pictured showing off their hand-made masks with matching purple feather detail. The three friends met “on the job” at St. Luke’s Hospital Warren Campus in Phillipsburg several years ago and frequently share fun things to do. They’re looking forward to joining the Easton-Phillipsburg Mardi Gras Parade on March 2, donning their masks, sporting their beads, and dancing in the streets.

A second Mask Making Open Studio is slated for Sunday, Feb. 24, from 2-4 p.m. at the same location. Artists are asked to bring bijoux and bits. Glue, tape, design assistance, and some supplies will be provided by PAAC.

Founded in September 2018, the Phillipsburg Area Arts Community’s mission is “to bring out the artist in every participant and the community in every art experience.” The Mask Making Open Studio is their fourth community event since September, with many more unique art experiences on tap for the coming months.

In addition, PAAC has scheduled two more free Open Studios in February: Draw, Sketch & Paint will be held at 394 S. Main Street, on Feb. 10 from 1:45-3 p.m., led by Josh Charbonneau. Create a reusable shopping bag during the Upcycle Circle at 74 S. Main Street, on February 13 from 7-9 p.m.

A Wine Glass Paint ‘n Sip Fundraiser to benefit PAAC is set for February 23 at 7 p.m. at SoMa Downtown Grill.

Currently PAAC’s home base is 178 S. Main Street, the old Union Station next to the Black Bridge, but the group is seeking a permanent home in Phillipsburg to serve as a community center featuring gallery areas, artist studios, and classroom/performance spaces, with special programming and events offered year-round. 

For more information about upcoming experiences, visit the Phillipsburg Area Arts Community at www.facebook.com/pburgarts/

In the meantime, Maria, Gisela, and Denise will see you at the Mardi Gras Parade on March 2!

When it comes to the people and happenings of Warren County, you can count on award-winning photographer Cathy Miller to be there to record the moment.