Calling all artists, writers, art collectors, art enthusiasts, friends, and family!
Join us for a day of affordable, accessible art!
Featuring discounted art sales, plein air painting, yoga workshop, writing workshop, and literary open mic, all on the beautiful Matheny campus in Peapack, NJ.
Free for all to attend!
Purchase art from the following organizations all day at the Art Fest.
All of the art for sale at the All Abilities Art Fest is created by artists with disabilities.
The Arts Access Program at Matheny empowers individuals with disabilities to create art without boundaries. Through the use of innovative systems and techniques, clients can take part in the visual, performing, and literary arts. Regardless of their disability, clients are provided with the tools and materials needed to produce complete pieces of work.
On a daily basis, Arts Access fosters an environment of artistic creativity among the participating clients. The program improves the quality of life for the clients and those around them. In addition, Arts Access programming aids in changing the perception about the capabilities and talents of people with developmental disabilities.
Purchase art from Arts Access at 30% off all day at the All Abilities Art Fest!
Only applies to in-person purchases at the event.The WAE Center at JSDD is a holistic arts learning program for adults with developmental disabilities.
Dedicated to “Finding the Spark Within,” WAE’s focus is on the personal growth of our members. We believe in meeting individuals where they are and supporting them as they identify and achieve their personal goals. Moreover, by embracing these humanistic principles, WAE guides members in building a greater capacity to live a full life.
Studio Arc opened in 2022 as a creative space for participants in The Arc of Essex County programs. Featuring art classes and projects using a variety of media, as well as lessons in fitness and movement, performing arts, communication, and STEAM, Studio Arc provides a wide range of engaging opportunities for children and adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities in the greater Essex County area.
Engaging with families, friends, volunteers, and the community is a key part of The Arc’s mission, and Studio Arc offers another avenue for interactive opportunities.
Participate in any of the free activities below.
Registration required for some activities.
Yoga Workshop | lead by Kate Hewson
Time: 11:00 am – 12:00 pm
Unwind and reconnect with your body through purposeful movement in this refreshing yoga workshop. Participants will be guided through gentle poses that synchronize with their breath, allowing them to de-stress and embrace the tranquility of the season. Please bring your own mat or towel to the workshop.
This event is free, but registration is required.
Writing Workshop | presented by ARTS By The People
Time: 3:00 pm – 4:00 pm
Calling all writers! Join us for an invigorating workshop geared towards writers of all experience levels. Whether you’re a new writer or an established author, come find inspiration from the art on the walls and the breathtaking views atop the hill at Matheny. Remember to bring your own writing essentials – be it pen and paper, a laptop, or your trusty iPad – for this stimulating one hour workshop.
Literary Open Mic | presented by ARTS By The People
Time: 4:30 pm – 5:30 pm (sign-up opens at 4 pm)
Let your voice be heard and your stories be shared in a welcoming and inclusive space! Join us for an hour of creativity and expression at this literary open mic. Engage with a supportive community and showcase your original poetry or prose. Each participant will have 3 minutes to captivate the audience with their words.
This event is free, but in-person sign up is required to participate.
Plein air painting | presented by the Center for Contemporary Art
Time: All day
Open call to artists! We invite artists of all experience levels to come paint the vistas from the Matheny campus all day during this open session of plein air painting. Participants will have the chance to capture the breathtaking landscapes and unique perspectives atop the hills of Somerset County. As the day unfolds, artists can exchange tips, techniques, and inspiration with fellow creatives, fostering a spirit of collaboration and learning.
Come and spend a day immersed in art, nature, and community, allowing your creativity to flourish. No registration is required, just bring your own materials and paint!
Robert Schonhorn Arts Center
65 Highland Ave | Peapack, NJ 07977
Perched atop the rolling hills of Somerset County, the Robert Schonhorn Arts Center at Matheny is a fully accessible art studio, gallery, and performance space. Built in 2000, the Arts Center is the home of the Arts Access Program where our artists create and showcase their work at gallery openings and stage shows, like the biennial Full Circle event.
Arts Access is excited to welcome artists, art-lovers, friends, and family to our home for the All Abilities Art Fest.