Gallery on Main's Artist of the Month series features an exhibition of mixed-media work by New Jersey-based artist Maria Lupo from June 1 through 30, entitled Eden Revisited: The OZ Series. Admission is free, and the paintings are available for purchase.

Join us for the opening reception on Saturday, June 1, from 5:00 to 7:00 pm.

Says Dr. Lupo, “My work is influenced greatly by the power of myth and fairy tales to inform and understand my own biographical journey through universal stories and themes. Personally, I am longing to belong to be accepted and to find my sense of place which as a child did not exist in my world. A stranger in a strange land displaced, disjointed...alone.”

She continues, “My creative process is stimulated by various and unusual materials while enjoying their lush and tactile properties. Transcending the use of traditional materials, my work includes such materials as topsoil, teabags, fabric, faux flowers, and recycled materials.”

A nationally recognized artist and Board-Certified Art Therapist, Maria Lupo attended Rutgers University, receiving a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree. Thru Rutgers University, she began her Sculptural studies in Cennina, Italy.

Dr. Lupo continued her studies in Sculpture at Hunter College, CUNY, receiving a Master’s of Fine Arts degree. In addition to her studies as a fine artist. Lupo has completed her Post-Masters Specialization in Art Therapy from Caldwell University and is a Board-Certified Registered Art Therapist holding a second Master’s Degree in Clinical and Counseling Psychology.

Lupo holds a Doctorate in Medical & Health Humanities from Drew University. She is an adjunct professor at Montclair State and Caldwell Universities, Cedar Crest and Ramapo College. As a clinician, Dr. Lupo’s work focuses on dementia care (Alzheimer’s), neuro-diversity, well-being, gender, caregiver support and End of Life issues. A recipient of the NJ State Council on the Arts fellowship award, Dr. Lupo’s work is included in many public and private collections.