Art Opening Receptions: Friday, July 10, 2026 / 5:00 pm to 7:00 pm
Onaje Benjamin & Shirley Parker-Benjamin – Victorian Gallery @ 9 Vassar Street
Photograph by Onaje Benjamin
Onaje Benjamin and Shirley Parker-Benjamin will share the spotlight in the Victorian Gallery in their collective exhibition entitled Mystical Rhythms.
Onaje Benjamin defines himself as a documentary/humanist photographer whose creative process involves monochromatic interpretations of the intrinsic aspects of life. As a visual storyteller, his images are artistic representations of the lives people live, their challenges, conflicts, and romantic dances they do while weaving in and out of their own experiences. Onaje’s artwork reflects his lived experience, and his body of work encompasses the current shifting cultural dynamics, political and identity conflicts and socio-economic landscapes, and social tensions. “My camera is an extension of my inner creative vision and imagination, and I seek confirmation of my existence and that of the social beings I share this sphere called earth,” he states. “The lens is a tool that can be an interpreter of beauty and social tensions and conflict or weaponized to challenge and violate our personal spaces.” Onaje has had gallery exhibitions in the Mid-Hudson Valley, New England and New York City, and a solo show at the Woodstock Artists Association and Museum. He has received numerous awards, including the Lelani Claire Award for Outstanding Achievement in Photography and was a recipient of the Creatives Build New York, Guaranteed Income for Artist Award.
Artwork by Shirley Parker-Benjamin
As a multidisciplinary artist for over 30 years, Shirley Parker-Benjamin has sought to create works of art of multiple genres that include sculptural mixed media, assemblage, installation and works on paper. She explores the intersection between ancestral, metaphysical, spiritual traditions and the divine feminine. “I utilize memory and ancestors in my work to visually tell a story,” Shirley explains. “My process includes the use of found objects, natural materials, fiber, metal, minerals, powered pigments and beads to create my work…. I am interested in how multiple textures interface.” Shirley’s compelling works of art have been exhibited regionally and internationally. In 2024, she was recognized by the Woodstock Artist Association and Museum (WAAM) with the 2024 Social Justice Award. Her current artistic projects include creating an Oracle Card Deck and an ancestral sculpture. Her studio, Re-Emergent Sanctuary, is located at the Cunneen-Hackett Arts Center.
Meghan McDonough – Reception Gallery @ 12 Vassar Street
Wonder by Meghan McDonough
Meghan McDonough is a figurative artist and dedicated educator whose work intricately explores the layers of human experience and the quest for a divine existence, and to encapsulate the cycles of universal emotion, illustrating the relief and grace that accompany the rediscovery of our divine source of love. Primarily utilizing oil paint, she also experiments with mixed media to allow her vibrant and dynamic brushstrokes to echo the fluidity of human movement. The application of paint is thick, raw, and linear, reflecting the intensity of emotions encountered in both the profound lows and euphoric highs of existence. “I endeavor to capture the motion, chaos, and serenity of the human condition as it strives to connect with a divine essence,” notes Meghan. “Each gestural figure in my work embodies various stages of life’s inner journey, symbolizing the shedding of false identities and the exploration of true selfhood.” Meghan graduated from SUNY New Paltz in 2012, earning a B.F.A. with a specialization in painting and drawing. This academic foundation catalyzed her artistic journey, leading her to delve deeply into the transformative power of art. After teaching private lessons, Meghan discovered the profound fulfillment that comes from sharing her passion for creativity and inspired her to pursue a Master of Science in Teaching, focusing on Art Education and Special Education. Since 2017, she has been an art teacher in New York City public high schools, where she guides students in grades 9 through 12. Meghan believes that everyone has the inherent ability to create, and she fosters an inclusive environment that encourages her students to explore their artistic voices. In her artwork, Meghan seeks to understand the complexities of the Self through the dynamic human form. As she continues her artistic and educational journey, she remains committed to empowering her students and enriching the lives of those around her through the transformative power of art.
Mukta – Hancock Gallery @ 12 Vassar Street
Painting by Mukta
Mukta began art at the age of three and since then his journey has been one of dedication and discovery. He received an associate’s degree from Rockland Community College and B.F.A. in painting and drawing from SUNY New Paltz. In 2003, Mukta began to dedicate his art to higher consciousness because of profound life-altering spiritual experiences. His oil and watercolor paintings are surreal and abstract in nature and are inspired by personal growth. “As an artist, I dive deep within and attempt to release all barriers that block the pure creativity from manifesting through them,“ he relays. “By taking this journey to its highest potential, Love, Light and Truth is transmitted through the artist’s creations that aid in the spiritual evolution of the planet restoring art to its powerful purpose of creating an environment of divine experience.” Mukta is also the co-founder of Divine Shakti Arts – an organization to bring divinity to earth through art and music.
