FREEHOLD – Monmouth County looks a little brighter and livelier each year, and the credit has to go to the area’s growing arts community.

           

Sculpture in parks and along highways; murals on buildings; gardens; galleries; theater, and museums are brightening lives and making the county a more enjoyable place to explore, said Bea Duffy, director of the Monmouth County Department of Economic Development and Tourism.

           

“It’s wonderful to see so much creativity on public view,” Duffy said. “From the intimate photography exhibits to major sculpture installations and summer stock theater, we have so much to see and experience. Much of it is year-round, too.”

           

To help focus attention on Monmouth County’s artists and their contributions, Monmouth County Arts Council Executive Director Mary Eileen Fouratt will speak at the Fifth Wednesday Squires Luncheon at Branches, 123 Monmouth Rd., West Long Branch on July 30.

 

Luncheon attendees represent area business leaders, government and civic organizations and meet every fifth Wednesday at Branches, formerly known as the Squires Pub. They discuss important events and trends important to Monmouth County. The luncheon is open to the public.

           

Fouratt will describe the Monmouth Arts Initiative, which is designed to expand knowledge of and appreciation for the arts.

           

“We’re very pleased to have her speak because the arts play a significant role in our cultural development,” Duffy said. “Fine art entertains, educates and challenges us. It brings communities together and gets our creative juices flowing. Everyone benefits.”

           

The menu is stuffed breast of chicken or pasta and shrimp a la panna. Tickets are $30 and reservations are requested. Payment will be accepted at the door.

           

For a reservation or more information, call the Department of Economic Development and Tourism at (732) 431-7470.

 

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