Performing arts centers, museums and concert halls may be closed, but we still have plenty of coverage about Jersey’s entertainment scene. While you’re cooped up at home, catch up some of our favorite feature articles focused on the arts from the past year.
The Newark Museum of Art director and CEO Linda Harrison stands in the Arts of Global Africa gallery next to Lady Walking a Tightrope by Yinka Shonibare. Photo by Ira L. Black
The Newark Museum of Art Enters a Fresh Era
With a new name and a new leader, the 110-year-old institution aims to polish its image as a cultural hub. (Jan 2020 issue)
Emmet Cohen Photo by Marla Cohen
Jazz Pianist Emmet Cohen’s Keys to Success
Just 29, the Montclair-bred musician has earned the admiration of fans and fellow artists. (Dec 2019 issue)
Smithereens, from left, Jim Babjak, Dennis Diken and Mike Mesaros revisit Carteret High School, where their rock’n’roll dreams took root. Photo by Justin Borucki
Brothers in Song: The Smithereens Carry On
After almost 40 years and the loss of singer/songwriter Pat DiNizio, the band heads to the New Jersey Hall of Fame. (Oct 2019 issue)
The view from the Elizabeth Ross Johnson Theater stage. In late July, installation of the 463 seats began. Photo by Frank Veronsky
The Stunning Debut of New Brunswick Performing Arts Center
The city’s $172-million arts complex has finally been unveiled. (Sept 2019 issue)
Actor/sculptor Vincenzo Amato has lately taken to working in wood in his Maplewood barn, creating pieces like a carving of his own hands (lower right). Photos by Chad Hunt
How Sculptor Vincenzo Amato Carved Out Two Successful Careers
The Italian-born artist/actor says his first visit to New Jersey changed everything. (Aug 2019 issue)
Abbie Gardner Courtesy of Brian McCloskey
Jersey’s Enduring Folk-Music Scene
Local artists are still strumming in varied venues throughout the state, from cafes and churches to libraries and living rooms. (Aug 2019 issue)
Livingston native Chelsea Handler. Photo courtesy of Emily Shur
Chelsea Handler Has a New Outlook on Life
Anger at the current political landscape inspires the actress/comedian’s latest episode as author and activist. (July 2019 issue)
Photo illustration: Andrew Ogilvie. Photography sources: Robeson at lectern, Afro Newspaper/Gado/Getty Images; Robeson sitting, John D. Kisch/Separate Cinema Archive /Getty Images; Robeson singing, GAB ARCHIVES/Getty Images; Robeson with football, courtesy of Special Collections and University Archives, Rutgers University Libraries.
Robeson Remembered: How Rutgers is Saluting an Oft-Overlooked Giant
The legacy of Renaissance man Paul Robeson has been virtually erased from American history. On the centenary of his graduation, the university is working to restore it. (May 2019 issue)