JCAL workshops and events . see details below..

 

Free Workshop! Street Photography: Seeing, Connecting and Telling Stories October 23, 6 pm 161-04 Jamaica Avenue This workshop introduces participants to street photography as a tool for observation, storytelling, and human connection. Through discussion, demonstrations, and guided shooting exercises, participants will learn how to navigate public spaces with confidence while developing a personal photographic voice. Rather than focusing solely on technical camera skills, the workshop emphasizes curiosity, empathy, and learning to recognize meaningful moments unfolding in everyday life. RSVP Early Bird Two-for-$15  Tickets Available! Thursday  Night Jazz Presents: Idris Frederick November 12, 8pm 153-10 Jamaica Avenue Idris Frederick is a distinguished contemporary jazz  pianist, renowned for his innovative approach and  masterful technique that blends traditional jazz  elements with modern influences. With a career that has taken him on extensive tours, Idris has performed alongside multiple  Grammy-nominated and award-winning artists,  showcasing his exceptional talent in prestigious  venues and festivals worldwide. His collaborations  with renowned musicians have not only enriched  his artistry but have also solidified his reputation  as a sought-after performer in the contemporary  jazz scene. Tickets Become a JCAL Member Today! Our year-long Membership provides free or deeply  discounted access to our events, classes,  and workshops! Tap the button below to learn more. Learn More Early Bird Tickets  Now On Sale: A Weekend of  West African Dance Performances  and Interactiv  Workshops Workshops  - February 16 - 17 Performance Dates:  February 26 - 27 153-10 Jamaica Avenue Come and join us for a vibrant celebration of  West African dance and culture. This exciting event is a part of our Black History Month festivities and  promises to be a weekend filled with rhythm, energy,  and joy. Get your tickets for explosive performances,  and interactive workshops led by Kofago Dance  Ensemble and FANIKE! African Dance Troupe! Tickets Photos of the Week: Thursday Night Jazz Sold Out Season  Premiere! Our Thursday Night Jazz season kicked off with a  fantastic concert, headlined by The Roy Hargrove  Big Band. Our next concert is on November 12.  Get your seats while tickets are available!

Jamaica Center for Arts & Learning | 161-04 Jamaica Avenue | Jamaica, NY 11432 US jcalworkshops#fineatmagazineblog.blogspot.com#sunstormfineartmagzine.com#artfunqueens #artfunnow#artfungroupsartfunazz,

Islip arts Council sponsored event now till the end of the year. And a call for indoor art and Coffee-Inspaired Art. Details below,

 One of my favorites is~Farm Painting at the Garden Ministry  of Sisters St Joseph, October 18. 10 am -  2 pm. Lots of other eventes see deltails belwo,   

STAY CONNECTED BECOME A MEMBER            CLASSES

UPCOMING EVENTS

Paint Like a Master Paint & Sip: Cézanne's Pyramid of Skulls October 16, 5 - 7 pm Students will recreate Paul Cezanne's Pyramid of Skulls painting on an 8x10 canvas. Learn a little bit about the history, color mixing, and more while enjoying light refreshments.   Registration Fee: $40 Includes supplies and snacks Register

Farm Painting at the Garden Ministry of Sisters of St. Joseph October 18 NEW DATE 10am - 2 pm Artists are welcome to explore the grounds of the CSJ Campus at Sister's of St. Joseph in Brentwood and paint outdoors from 10am-2pm! This special plein air event will have lots of scenic options for artists to choose from and connect with. From the garden to the farm animals, artists are encouraged to bring their favorite plein air materials, enjoy the fall foliage, and meet artists alike.  Registration Fee: $15 Register

Pin-Up & Paint October 25, 12 - 3 pm COME PAINT! ART MEETS HISTORY Location: 1230 New Hwy, Farmingdale, at the American Airpower Museum, Farmingdale Be inspired by vintage aircraft and professional models from The Pinup Society: -Live pin-up models -Paint on-site -Your artwork may be included in the Veterans Exhibition at the Islip Arts Council Gallery $15 registration fee FREE FOR VETERANS Register

Halloween Crafts & Costumes Wednesday, October 28, 6-8pm Let's get crafty this spooky season! From pumpkin painting to DIY crafts, come with your creativity and costume. Best costume wins a prize! Family-friendly. All ages welcome.  Registration Fee: $10 Donation / Snacks will be available Register

FREE CONCERT: An Afternoon of QUEENS SOUND - Opera & Song at United Methodist Church of Islip 350 East Main St, Islip, NY November 7, 2026 / 2 pm FREE ADMISSION Presented by the Islip Arts Council through a grant from Suffolk County Legislator Steve Flotteron.

EXHIBITS AT THE GALLERY

PERMANENT EXPRESSION On display October 1 - 31 The Islip Arts Council presents an exhibition celebrating bold, expressive works of art from urban to graffiti. Featured Artists: Michael Barbour Anthony Bacarella Gina Callegari-Orlando Tony Cruz Nicole Dimas-Utterback Dennis Dubey Sean Fitzthum Angelica Kempa Benjamin Montecinos Sergio Russell-Diaz

UNDER THE SEA IMMERSIVE EXPERIENCE On display October 1 - 31 For the month of October, part of the gallery will be transformed into an interactive Under-the-Sea installation that will feature light projections, ocean videos, and ocean-themed artwork by local artists. Artists: ​Michael Barbour Liv Davidson Dennis Dubey Tove Hasselriis Abrams Groovy Tuesday International Band Kiya Henry Nia Henry Niki Hu Angelica Kempa Tessa G. Montague, Ph. D. Harold Naideau Susan Teresa Linda Weingarten

FEATURED ARTIST Victoria Pierre-Jean On view September 15 - October 24 Victoria Pierre-Jean (VPJ) is a Haitian American visual artist and community arts facilitator based in Brooklyn, NY. Her work blends acrylic and mixed media portraiture to explore themes of identity, heritage, and emotional healing. With a professional background in clinical social work, VPJ integrates art and wellness to create spaces for empowerment and reflection. Her vibrant, symbolic pieces have been featured in notable exhibitions including the Harlem Fine Arts Show (2024), Black Girl Art Show (2025), and Times Square Artworks (2025 and 2026). She is also a recurring artist at Atlantic Antic (2023–2025). Through bold color and layered storytelling, VPJ invites viewers to explore their inner worlds and reflect on the social and cultural forces that shape us. Her practice is both visual and transformative by using art as a tool for connection, consciousness, and collective healing.

CALL FOR ART

IMAGES OF HISTORIC ST. MARK'S CHURCH & THE GREATER ISLIP COMMUNITY Exhibition Period October 24 - December 6 Exhibit Location: St. Mark's Church, Islip Submission Deadline: October 13, End of business Day Application Fee: $25 IAC and St. Mark's Members $35 NonMembers The Islip Arts Council in partnership with St. Mark's Church invites artists of all ages to submit work for the first exhibit in this new partnership. The theme is "Images of Historic St. Mark's and the Greater Islip Community." This is an opportunity to showcase works from the entire community, including IAC and St. Mark's members. Artists may reflect the beauty of St. Mark's and other historic places in Islip including Brookwood Hall in East Islip, Sagtikos Manor in West Bay Shore, and the Bayard Cutting Estate in Great River. Artists Apply Here

CALL FOR INDOOR PLANTS AND COFFEE-INSPIRED ART Grounds for Growth New Deadline: October 23, end of business day. Exhibition Period: October 30 - December 31, 2026 Exhibit Location: My Town's Cafe - 51 W Main St., East Islip Submission Fee: $25 IAC Members / $35 Non-members The Islip Arts Council is curating a cozy, coffee-and-plant-themed art exhibition at My Town’s Cafe, and we’re seeking artwork inspired by the beauty of indoor plants, coffee, and the little moments that make a space feel like home. Works may explore houseplants, botanical forms, coffee culture, cozy café scenes, or imaginative interpretations of greenery. From realistic studies to abstract pieces, we welcome all media!

Artists Apply Here

GALLERY HOURS: Tuesday - Saturday, 11am - 4pm CLOSED Sundays & Mondays ISLIPARTS.ORG 631-888-3525 

THANK YOU SUPPORTERS!  Thank you to our sponsors and dedicated people like you who continue to support the Islip Arts Council. Without your help, it would not be possible for IAC to provide the community with new and exceptional programming. #islipartscouncil#fineartmagazineblog.blogspot.com #sunstormfineartmagazine.com#artfuncreate#artfunartists #artfunnow#artfunli