Our Art Show
Curator: Athena Toledo

Dates: June 2 – 24, 2023

Opening Reception: Friday, June 2, 5– 9 PM
During Access JCFridays

Location: ART150 Gallery
157A First St. Jersey City, NJ 07302
(Same place, new address)
Gallery is wheelchair accessible.
Hours: Saturdays only in June, 1-4 PM 

Pro Arts Jersey City is happy to present the artwork of students from St. Joseph’s School for the Blind, and the residents of St. Joseph’s and St. Ann’s Adult Medical Day Programs to ART150 Gallery. As part of our mission to reach the Jersey City community, we invited the art students of these organizations to present their work this June when we focus on the unique perspectives of people with disabilities.

St. Joseph’s School for the Blind has provided specialized services to individuals with visual impairments across New Jersey. Founded in 1881 by the Sisters of St. Joseph of Peace, the school comprises several programs, such as: Early Intervention, In District Support Services, School for the Blind, and Adult Services.

Peace Care St. Ann’s has been the cornerstone of health care for over 100 years in Jersey City’s Greenville community and surrounding neighborhoods. The professional staff provides personal attention and care to nurture the mind, body, and spirit of long-term care residents, Adult Medical Day Care clients, and short-term care patients. Peace Care promotes independence, recreational activities, and social interaction for individuals who require ongoing health services and support.

Athena Toledo, curator: Jersey City resident, Toledo is an art therapist who assists blind and visually impaired students, nursing home residents, and adults with neurodiversity through the healing power of art. At St. Joseph School for the Blind, she employs techniques to help visually impaired students express themselves creatively. At St. Joseph’s & St. Ann’s Adult Medical Day Programs, she supports individuals with diverse neurodiversity, with personalized art therapy sessions to navigate the challenges of daily life. With residents at St. Ann’s Nursing Home, Toledo creates a safe space for artistic expression and promotes emotional well-being among the elderly population. 

Toledo graduated from New Jersey City University and is currently enrolled in the Art Therapy MPS program at SVA. She envisions a future where art therapy continues to empower individuals and create positive change in their lives.