The Medford Arts Center will host its new pro-age event on Nov. 7 to celebrate women artists and the concept of aging creatively.
The downtown Medford center will also showcase a fashion and style show and a three-part series that will invite guests to learn more about a variety of topics. The center is a community nonprofit that provides year-long art classes, workshops and art exhibits and also features Medford ArtWalks, poetry gatherings, a gallery, gift shop and free classes for veterans.
The pro-age event costs $15 for entry and will expose visitors to concepts such as how creativity can be embraced at any age, artistic growth, and how to connect with personal expression. Ten dollars of the entry fee can be used at the center gift shop.
The fashion and style show and the three-part series will feature jewelry and wearable art made by the center’s women artists, including Susan Barnes of Medford, Maureen Ferrito of Whiting, Michelle McCarty of Shamong and Bluma Smith of Medford Lakes. Designed scarves, purses and other accessories made by Georgann Freeman of Medford Lakes and Sherry McGrath of Browns Mills will also be featured.
The event will be moderated by Miriam Butler, who has operated three women’s clothing stores for 30 years and has served as a motivational speaker on women’s issues all over the world. She suggested the pro-age concept event to the center, and is also active in coordinating some of its events, works in the gift shop and window displays.
“Even though it’s for everyone, the pro-age revolution really does include women of every size, shape, color, background and culture,” Butler explained, “All stages of embracing themselves and moving toward a new and exciting time in their life. Cause that happens at 20,30,40, 50, 60 — you learn how to love yourself, you celebrate yourselves and you are constantly finding out what it is and who you are,”
Butler said she will explore color analysis, hair shape, makeup and how to highlight one’s features for center guests. The three-part series will explore fashion, artistic creativity and journaling and invite guests to explore different ideas and aspects about themselves.
In touching on a variety of topics at the event and exploring concepts such as beauty, expression and knowledge, Butler expressed why the pro-age event is so special to the arts center, its guests and her.
“For me it’s very rewarding, that I’m able to share 30 years of my experience in these areas with women,” she noted. “It’s wonderful when I can meet another woman and talk with her about makeup and fashion and about feeling good about yourself, and coming up with tips and sharing.
“It’s a wonderful thing that we can uplift each other and help each other as women,” Butler added. “And that’s what the series is all about, enjoying being a woman and being creative at any age.”
Hours for the event are 1 to 3 p.m. For more information on that and the Medford Arts Center, visit https://www.medfordarts.com
