TUESDAYS • 6-8:00 PM

Hands-on art classes with Richard Cox and Keith Cheek, South Toms River Elementary Art

Teachers, let creativity takes the lead! Each week introduces a new medium, technique, or challenge, no two sessions are ever the same. Students will explore a wide range of art forms, including sculpture, clay, papier-mâché, printmaking, painting, and drawing. Projects may include gel plate printing, lino cuts, perspective drawing, still life, portraits, abstract work, and more. Some sessions encourage free creation with themed prompts, while others are inspired by artists like Picasso, Van Gogh, Mondrian, and Banksy. Activities may include collage, graffiti art, character design, and collaborative projects. Longer projects allow students to develop ideas over time, including sculpture work, sketchbook practice, and a group mural for Downtown Toms River.

Build your skills, confidence, and a portfolio to be proud of. Open to all levels.

Beginners welcome.

MORE ABOUT THE TEACHERS:

Keith Cheek

Received his Bachelor of Fine Arts from Rowan University in 2001, where he focused primarily on printmaking, with an emphasis on screen printing. After completing his undergraduate studies, Keith worked a variety of jobs in several states. Most jobs were in restaurant or retail, some were in the art field, such as screen printing T-shirts for a clothing company called Z Line, and working at a small metal fabrication shop called Gauge Inc. In 2004, Keith enrolled at Monmouth University to pursue graduate studies in elementary education, earning his certification to teach kindergarten through fifth grade. In 2006 he was hired as a third-grade teacher at South Toms River Elementary School in New Jersey. After teaching third grade for eleven years, he transitioned into the school’s art department, where he is presently the art teacher. Keith has shown his art in a several group shows in Philadelphia. While he has not displayed his work since in a couple decades, he continues to create on a regular basis.

Richard Cox

- Late 80’s - worked as a graphic designer.

- 1995 - Graduated from Camberwell Art College, London - BA Joint Hons Fine Art & Ceramics.

- 1995 - part of the “Contemporary Ceramics” exhibition at Victoria & Albert Museum, London.

- 1996 - solo show at the “Independent Cinema” London.

- 1996 - part of “The Beautiful Game” exhibition, Leicester.

- 1996-2000 - contracted sculptor at “Summerfield Pottery” Kent.

- 1996-2000 - guest lecturer at SE Kent College.

- 2000-2005 - various commissions

- 2019 - redesigned logo for South Toms River Elementary, also designed mascot.

- Continues to do various artwork for the school.