Ocean County Library Jackson Branch to Feature Painted Rock Art by Ceil Smolowitz

JACKSON TOWNSHIP – The Ocean County Library Jackson Branch is pleased to feature township resident Ceil Smolowitz’s minimalist art exhibit of painted stones. “Painted Rocks” will be on display throughout the months of June and July.

“The Rock Lady” relates that her art grew from a pastime to a charity fundraising vehicle. “My daughter-in-law [OCL Librarian Wendi Smolowitz] came to me after she was asked to do a craft class,” Ceil recalled. “Since I had always enjoyed crafting, I said that I’d be willing to take her place. But what to do?”

Ceil visited Pinterest for ideas, and was drawn to rock painting. “I purchased all the supplies and did the class. It was very successful! At home I continued painting and really was enjoying myself.” She continued painting during a winter in Florida. ”I guess you could say I was hooked.”

As the rocks piled up, she developed a plan to raise money for worthy causes with them. “I asked a friend in the American Cancer Society if I could sell the rocks at a meeting, and donate the money to the organization. I attended three meetings and was able to donate almost $500.”

The COVID pandemic brought the arrangement to a halt, but Ceil carried on, honing her painting technique during isolation. “Now people come to me when they need rocks for special occasions,” she said, adding that she continues to donate all proceeds to charities.

“Painted Rocks” is free, open to the public, and on display during normal Branch operating hours. No registration is required to view the exhibit. For more information, stop by the Jackson Branch, 2 Jackson Drive, call 732-928-4400, or visit www.theoceancountylibrary.org/events.

Keep up with Library programs and events at www.theoceancountylibrary.org, and on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, YouTube, Spotify, and Pinterest.