Upcoming Rutherford Arts Council Events

By Jennifer Ersalesi

Arts play a vital role in our community. One particular non-profit organization, the Rutherford Arts Council, has found a number of ways to bring all forms of art to the Borough of Rutherford through art exhibits, talent shows, creative expression workshops, and so much more. This is Rutherford interviewed the Rutherford Arts Council to learn more about what they have planned over the next several months.

TIR: The Rutherford Arts Council has been busy bringing awesome artistic experiences to the Borough. Tell us about the showcases of art you have been putting up in Clara's Tunnel.

Rutherford Arts Council: The showcases in Clara’s Tunnel have been a true community effort—some artists we knew personally, and others were recommended by friends and neighbors who wanted to see their work celebrated. Rutherford is full of creative talent, and we’re so inspired by how many artists have stepped forward. We hope even more will share their work in the future—it’s all about showing off the talent that makes our town special. 

One standout exhibition coming up is from Jess Stiles, whose powerful photography captures the energy and spirit of last year’s soccer club games. We’re especially excited to celebrate Jess as she prepares to photograph the upcoming World Cup this summer! Then, in July, we’ll honor America’s 250th with a special exhibit curated by Billy Neumann, Rutherford’s own historian, featuring a memorable look back at our town’s rich heritage. It’s been a joy bringing these stories and talents to the heart of our borough.

Creative Expression Workshop

TIR: The RAC holds monthly Creative expression meetings at the Rutherford Congregational Church on Wednesday evenings.  Tell us more about these meet-ups.

RAC: The RAC’s monthly Creative Expression meetings are a wonderful space for connection and inspiration! Held on the second Wednesday of every month at 7:30–9 PM at the Rutherford Congregational Church (2A E Passaic Ave), they’re open to everyone and completely free. We come together to share what we're working on, spark ideas in our creative hive, and always end the night with a fun mini project—great way to unwind and get inspired alongside fellow artists and makers! 

TIR: On June 20th, the RAC and School of Rock of Carlstadt will present "Ribs & Riffs:  A Live Band Karaoke Experience" at Jim Dandy's Rutherford.  This looks like it will be a family-friendly good time.  What can people expect when they attend?

RAC: "Ribs & Riffs" is going to be such a fun night!  People can expect great food, good vibes, and a mix of crowd pleasing hits that’ll have everyone singing along—maybe even grabbing the mic! It’s all about coming together with friends and family to make some core memories. There’ll be a door prize or two (you don’t want to miss that!), and RAC will be sharing the song list soon—so be sure to follow our Facebook page (https://www.facebook.com/RutherfordArtsCouncil/) to stay in the loop. Fingers crossed it’s a hit and becomes a regular thing! 

TIR: How did the RAC and School of Rock come up with the idea to do "Ribs & Riffs"?

RAC: The idea for "Ribs & Riffs" was sparked when our VP experienced live band karaoke on a cruise and brought the idea back to the team. Turns out, Dave and Dominique from the School of Rock had enjoyed the same concept from their own cruise adventures! With Jim Dandy’s amazing patio and mouthwatering ribs, it all clicked—great food, live music, and sing-along fun. The rest is history!

We are grateful for our three Premier Sponsors: The Agency, Realtor Jessi Davidson of The Agency, and Dan Meredith Allstate Agency, our Creative Sponsor Web Samurai for Hire, our Community Sponsor Studio 108, Yoga and Beyond, and our two Friends of the Arts Sponsors: SKT Interior Design and Go Help Confidently.

TIR: Do you have any other upcoming events and/or meetings you would like to share?

RAC: Absolutely! Here’s what’s coming up: RAC attended South Bergen Pridefest on June 6th, and we’re excited to join Dining Out Rutherford on June 17 with a mini outdoor art showcase. Then on July 17th, stop by Atelie Eryn Santos Hair Design for Jess Stiles’ photography exhibit—such a cool space to feature her work! And of course, mark your calendars for October… Rutherford’s Got Talent is coming to Rutherford High School—bigger than last year, with some fun perks for the performers leading up to showtime!