​Upcoming Workshops:

• September 10 – Senior Pottery Workshop, Union Township
• September 13 – October 25 – Youth Pottery Series, East Orange YMCA
• October 8 – Youth Pottery Workshop, Livingston Public Library
• October 16 – Bold Fall Florals Painting Workshop, SOMA Adult School
• October 23 – Pottery Workshop, Chatham Adult School
• November 12 & 19 – Expressive Collage Workshop, SOMA Adult School

Kick off the school year with a creative project that’s easy, fun, and perfect for kids, teens, and families. This Personalized Back-to-School Pencil Case is a functional art project that lets you carry your creativity with you every day.

Materials:

• •    Canvas pencil case – plain, unlined, zipper closure
  •    Acrylic paint set – variety of colors
  •    Fabric markers – fine tip for details
  •    Small paintbrush set – assorted sizes
  •    Painter’s palette or paper plate for mixing
  •    Cardstock or thin cardboard sheet – to place inside the case
  •    Cup for water and paper towels for cleanup
  •    Mod Podge for Fabric – to seal and protect your design

Download the full Instructions here.

At Express Yourself Studios, we believe art is a powerful tool for connection, dialogue, and joy—and we love bringing that experience directly to you. Whether you’re a school, library, community organization, or business, our workshops and programs are designed to inspire and engage.

📩 Ready to collaborate or learn more? Visit expressyourselfstudiosllc.com or email us at [email protected] start the conversation.

Express Yourself Studios proudly announces two new impactful art collections available online:

• Crown Resistance: A fine art print celebrating themes of Black fatherhood, dignity, and resilience.
• Ink & Impact Poster Series: A compelling series combining vibrant illustrations with thought-provoking social commentary, ideal for creative spaces, classrooms, and workplaces.

Both collections are accessible through the online shop.

June Creative Projects
Express Yourself Studios invites everyone to explore creativity this month through thoughtfully designed projects reflecting themes of family, freedom, and pride:

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We’re excited to share the launch of Blooming Essence, a vibrant new collection by artist Simone Anthony-Brown, now available exclusively at Express Yourself Studios. This limited series of 12 collage prints combines the elegance of florals with powerful silhouette imagery, creating artwork that honors the spirit and strength of Black women.

Each piece in the Blooming Essence series began with a single painting created during one of Simone’s virtual art sessions. That original painting has since been reimagined and repurposed multiple times to form this stunning collection. Using recycled paintings as her foundation, Simone has layered color, shape, and texture to produce silhouettes that are both soft and strong—each one telling a story of transformation, grace, and resilience.

​This series is a testament to the idea that beauty can emerge from what already exists—art made sustainable and intentional. Blooming Essence invites you to reflect on the power of reinvention and the quiet strength found in everyday grace.

Why You'll Love These Prints:

• Thoughtfully Created: Each print was developed using recycled original artwork.
• Visually Striking: Vibrant florals flow through silhouette profiles with painterly softness.
• High Quality: Giclée prints available in 11” x 14” and 16” x 20”, printed with rich, lasting color.
• Ready to Frame: Each print includes a thick 2mm natural white mat. (Frames not included.)
• Meaningful & Giftable: Perfect for home décor or as a unique gift for someone who appreciates art with heart.

Whether you're celebrating Black History Month, Women’s History Month, Mother's Day, or simply looking to refresh your space with artwork that tells a story, Blooming Essence makes a thoughtful and inspiring addition to any collection.
Explore all 12 prints and bring home the essence of beauty, strength, and renewal today.

View the full series here.

Mother’s Day can evoke various emotions—from joy and gratitude to reflection and remembrance. Whether you're celebrating yourself, honoring a mom friend, or acknowledging a maternal figure in your life, consider creative activities that promote relaxation, self-care, and meaningful connections.

Floral Painting Session for Relaxation

Creative expression can be a rewarding form of self-care. Here’s an easy floral painting activity perfect for relaxation:

Materials Needed:

• Canvas or thick watercolor paper
• Acrylic paints (suggested colors: pink, red, white, yellow, green, blue)
• Paintbrushes (varied sizes)
• Pencil for sketching
• Palette for mixing colors

Instructions:

1. Lightly sketch flowers and leaves onto your canvas.
2. Paint the background using soft, soothing colors.
3. Add flowers with vibrant shades like pink, red, and white.
4. Paint leaves and additional details in greens and yellows.
5. Let your painting dry fully, then add final touches for depth.

​Recommended Products:

• Canvas Pack
• Acrylic Paint Set – Vibrant Colors
• Versatile Paint Brush Set

Additional Creative Activities for Self-Care

Art Journaling

Create a personal art journal for expressing emotions, reflections, or experiences using colorful paper, markers, and decorative tape.

Recommended Products:

• Blank Art Journals
• Decorative Washi Tape Set
• Fine-tip Marker Set

DIY Jewelry Crafting

Craft personalized jewelry pieces using polymer clay, ideal for expressing individual creativity.

Recommended Products:

• Polymer Clay Set
• Jewelry Findings Kit

Relaxation Essentials

Create homemade bath bombs or candles to enhance your self-care routines.
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Recommended Products:

• Bath Bomb DIY Kit
• Candle Making Kit

Meaningful Art Gifts

Expressive art prints make thoughtful gifts that provide comfort and inspiration. Visit our Fine Art America shop for unique pieces ideal as meaningful gifts or personal keepsakes.

Stay Creatively ConnectedJoin our monthly 4th Sunday Virtual Painting Sessions from 3 PM - 5 PM Eastern Standard Time. These guided virtual sessions offer enjoyable creative experiences from the comfort of home.

This Mother's Day, embrace creativity, relaxation, and meaningful connection. Explore more ideas and resources at Express Yourself Studios.
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Wishing you a peaceful and creative Mother's Day.

Easter provides a perfect opportunity to explore creativity as a family. While egg dying is a classic tradition, consider adding new artistic activities that everyone can enjoy. Here are several art-focused ideas for your Easter celebrations:
​
Paint a Rainbow Bunny

Add some color to your Easter with this simple Rainbow Bunny painting activity.

Materials Needed:

• Canvas, heavy watercolor paper or tote bag
• Acrylic paints in various colors
• Paintbrushes (varied sizes)
• Pencil for sketching
• Black marker (optional)

Instructions:

1. Lightly sketch a bunny silhouette on your canvas or download the template now.
2. Paint horizontal strokes using different colors around you bunny silhouette to create a rainbow pattern.
3. Allow the paint to dry completely. Paint the bunny with black paint let it dry and outline with a black marker for a more defined look.

Recommended Products:

• Canvas
• Acrylic paints
• Paintbrushes

Easter-Themed Family Collage

Gather magazines, paper, stickers, and glue to create a family collage inspired by spring.
Recommended Products:

• Colored Cardstock Pack
• Kid-Friendly Glue Sticks
• Springtime Sticker Sheets

Bunny-Shaped Pottery

Use air-dry clay to create simple pottery pieces shaped like bunnies, eggs, or baskets. Allow the pieces to dry completely, then paint with pastel colors.
Recommended Products:

• Air-Dry Modeling Clay
• Pastel Acrylic Paint Set

Easter Rock Painting

Paint smooth rocks with spring themes like flowers, ladybugs, butterflies, or chicks. You can also add short messages or designs.
Recommended Products:

• Outdoor Acrylic Paint Set
• Fine-Tip Paint Pens
• Rocks for Crafting

Easter-Inspired Watercolor Cards

Make personalized Easter cards using watercolor paper and paints. Explore simple spring motifs such as flowers, bunnies, or butterflies.
Recommended Products:

• Watercolor Paper Cards
• Watercolor Paint Set
• Watercolor Brush Set

Easter Creativity for Kids

Encourage creativity with these easy, kid-friendly projects:

• Bunny Masks: Craft masks from paper plates, markers, and craft sticks.
• Egg Carton Animals: Recycle egg cartons to create animals like chicks, frogs, or rabbits with paint and googly eyes.
• Paper Plate Wreaths: Create spring-themed wreaths with paper plates, paper cutouts, and ribbons.

Recommended Products:

• Washable Kids Paint Set
• Craft Sticks and Googly Eyes Set
• Paper Plate Craft Kit

Stay Creative All Year

Join our monthly 4th Sunday Virtual Painting Sessions, from 3 PM - 5 PM EST. These guided sessions offer a convenient way to maintain your artistic practice at home.

Celebrate Easter creatively. For more ideas and workshop information, visit Express Yourself Studios.
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Happy Easter and enjoy creating!

As the days get longer and the air fills with the scent of blooming flowers, spring invites us to embrace new beginnings—and what better way to welcome the season than with a little creative expression? Whether you're picking up a paintbrush for the first time or looking for a fun project to enjoy with your kids, spring offers endless inspiration.

Let Creativity Bloom:

Try a Simple Watercolor Spring FloralOne of the easiest and most satisfying ways to channel the season’s energy is by painting a spring floral using watercolors. Here's a simple project to get you started—no experience needed!

What You’ll Need:

• Watercolor paper (140 lb cold press recommended)
• Watercolor paints in spring tones (try a palette with shades of pink, yellow, green, and lavender)
• A round brush (size 6 or 8 works well)
• Water cup, paper towel, and a mixing palette

Steps:

1. Lightly sketch a few simple flower shapes—like tulips, daisies, or wildflowers—onto your paper.
2. Start by painting your lightest colors first, letting the water do the blending. Don’t worry about perfection—spring is all about playfulness!
3. Add layers as needed, allowing each layer to dry before adding details.
4. Use a fine-tip brush or pen to outline or accent once dry, if desired.

Recommended Supplies:

• Watercolor Paper Pad – 9x12, 140 lb Cold Press
• Watercolor Paint Set – Spring Colors
• Round Watercolor Brushes – Set of 8
• Portable Watercolor Mixing Palette

Spring-Inspired Creativity for Kids

Kids love springtime—the colors, the critters, the chance to get outside. Here are a few creative activities to try with your little ones this season:

1. Nature Collage Walks
Take a walk and collect twigs, leaves, flower petals, and bits of grass. At home, use glue and cardstock to make a nature collage.

• Washable Glue Sticks
• Bright Cardstock Pack
  
  

2. Flower Pot Painting
Grab some terra cotta pots and let kids decorate them with acrylic paint. Use them to plant seeds or flowers as a spring keepsake.

• Mini Clay Pots – Set of 12
• Acrylic Paint Set for Kids
• Kids' Paint Brushes – Easy Grip
  
  

3. Sidewalk Art with a Twist
Instead of plain chalk, try paintable chalk kits for bold, bright pavement art such as a Liquid Chalk set.

Join Us and Paint Together

If you're looking for more creative connection this season, we’d love for you to join us for our 4th Sunday Virtual Painting Sessions—a great way to stay inspired from the comfort of your home. Each month we explore a new theme, and you’ll receive a supply list ahead of time so you can follow along.

And if you’re local…

Join us Wednesday, March 23 from 7 PM - 9 PM for our Bold Florals Painting Workshop in partnership with the South Orange Maplewood Adult School. This in-person workshop will take place at Columbia High School. We still have a few seats available—come and paint with us!

Final Thoughts

Spring is a beautiful reminder that creativity is all around us—blooming in the garden, buzzing in the trees, and waiting to be expressed on paper, canvas, or clay. Whether you're painting a floral scene, crafting with your kids, or picking up a brush for the first time in years, take this season as a cue to create something new.

For more workshops, products, and inspiration, visit Express Yourself Studios and let your creativity blossom.

This season marks an exciting new chapter for Express Yourself Studios—one filled with recognition, growth, and a renewed mission to make creativity more accessible than ever. From community honors to major exhibitions and a new mobile and digital focus, we’re proud to share what’s new and what’s next.

Simone Anthony-Brown Named Unsung Shero in Business

We are proud to share that Simone Anthony-Brown, artist and owner of Express Yourself Studios, was recently recognized as an Unsung Shero in the category of Business at Unsung Sheroes, presented by South Orange Village, Maplewood Township, and the South Orange Performing Arts Center (SOPAC).

This meaningful recognition highlights local women making outstanding contributions across sectors. Simone was honored alongside:

• Advocacy: Nicole Josey
• Arts: Susan Haig
• Education: Elizabeth Petroccia
• Community: Mona Karim and Geetanjali Mehra
• Public Service: Stacey Ross-Trevor
• Youth: Violet Kessler

We are incredibly grateful to see Simone’s work in the arts and entrepreneurship acknowledged in such a powerful way.

“Rhythms and Roots” Featured at Newark Liberty International Airport

Simone Anthony-Brown’s artwork, Rhythms and Roots, has also been selected for the Art of NJ Digital Art Exhibition at Newark Liberty International Airport’s Terminal A. Chosen from nearly 400 submissions, Simone is one of just 20 artists selected to represent New Jersey’s vibrant creative community.

Her mixed-media collage—rich in texture, color, and cultural storytelling—will be displayed digitally, introducing national and international travelers to the depth and diversity of New Jersey's artists.

Simone’s work has also been featured in exhibitions hosted by the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation, Novartis Pharmaceuticals, and is held in private collections across the United States and Canada.

We’ve Gone Mobile (and Digital)! As of this year, Express Yourself Studios has officially evolved into a mobile and digital creative arts hub. That means we’re now delivering engaging art experiences wherever creativity is needed—at schools, corporations, community centers, senior living facilities, and virtually, too.

Whether it's a team-building workshop, wellness program, family art session, or special event, we bring all the supplies and the inspiration to your location.

Recent Highlights:

• March 5: We led a Senior Pottery Workshop at Brandywine Living in Livingston, NJ, guiding residents through hand-building techniques with clay.
• March 6: We returned for our 4th creative team-building session with Deloitte in Morristown, helping employees step away from their screens to reconnect through a guided mixed-media painting workshop.
• March 11:  We conducted and kids and family Collage Workshop for Women's History Month
• March 17:  We facilitated a Mixed-Media Floral Collage Workshop at the Springfield Library guiding participants through layering paint, papers, and text to create vibrant, one-of-a-kind pieces
• March 26:  We will facilitate a Bold Floral Painting Workshop at Columbia High School in conjunction with the South Orange/Maplewood Adult School.  There are still seats available so join us!  

​These events reflect our mission to make art accessible, interactive, and meaningful in all kinds of environments.

Virtual Painting Sessions – 4th SundaysWe’re also continuing our Virtual Painting Sessions for individuals and families, held every 4th Sunday of the month. These sessions are perfect for relaxing, bonding, and expressing yourself creatively from the comfort of home.

Pre-registration is required. Contact us to sign up for the next session.

Explore Our Digital Art Collection

Looking to add beautiful, original artwork to your space? Our Digital Art Collection features high-resolution, ready-to-download art that you can print at your convenience using platforms like Fine Art America or Finer Works.
Whether you're decorating your home, gifting something special, or curating your office space, our collection offers the flexibility and inspiration you need.

Mobile Art Birthday Parties

Celebrating a child’s birthday soon? Our Mobile Art Birthday Parties bring creativity directly to you! We handle everything—supplies, setup, and instruction—for a fun and engaging experience.

We travel to community centers, clubhouses, and backyards throughout Suburban Essex, Morris, and Union counties.

Let’s Create Together

We're excited to share these milestones and look forward to continuing to bring art into lives and communities in new and meaningful ways. We'll be sharing updates monthly and hope you'll stay connected.

Whether you're looking for an offsite art workshop, virtual painting session, original artwork, or a mobile birthday party, Express Yourself Studios is here to help you create.

​Contact us to get started or to learn more about how we can bring a creative experience to your home, team, or community.

After 16 successful years as a beloved brick-and-mortar art studio, Express Yourself Studios is expanding its impact by transitioning into a mobile and digital creative arts hub, offering offsite creative workshops, virtual art experiences, and an expanded fine art collection featuring both established and emerging artists. Founded by artist Simone Anthony-Brown, the studio now brings arts education, team-building experiences, and wellness-based programs to schools, corporations, healthcare organizations, and community groups, while also serving as an online platform for fine art sales.

“Art is a bridge that connects people, fosters self-expression, and promotes well-being,” says Simone Anthony-Brown, artist and owner of Express Yourself Studios. “By transitioning beyond our physical location, we can now reach more audiences, delivering high-quality creative experiences in-person and online while expanding opportunities for local and emerging artists.”

Bringing Art to Schools, Businesses & Healthcare Spaces
Express Yourself Studios specializes in customized, offsite workshops designed for:

• Educational Institutions & After-School Programs – Enriching learning with hands-on art experiences.
• Corporate Team-Building & Wellness Initiatives – Enhancing collaboration, innovation, and mindfulness through creativity.
• Healthcare & Wellness Organizations – Integrating art into therapeutic and wellness programs.
• Community Groups & Libraries – Providing accessible and engaging workshops for diverse audiences.

Expanding Virtual & Digital Offerings
In addition to in-person workshops, Express Yourself Studios is enhancing its online presence with:

• Live & Pre-Recorded Virtual Art Workshops – Interactive experiences for individuals, families, and corporate clients.
• An Online Art Store – Featuring fine art prints, DIY art kits, and digital guides for creative exploration.
• A Growing YouTube Channel – Offering free tutorials, behind-the-scenes content, and artist insights.

Showcasing Fine Art by Simone Anthony-Brown & Emerging Artists
As part of its evolution, Express Yourself Studios will not only feature original paintings and mixed media works by Simone Anthony-Brown but also showcase artwork from emerging and local artists, offering:

• Original paintings & mixed media collages
• Limited-edition prints & commissioned artwork
• Curated art collections for interior designers, corporate buyers, and collectors

An Exciting New Chapter in Creativity
Express Yourself Studios invites schools, businesses, and community organizations to explore customized creative experiences, and art collectors to discover a curated selection of work from talented artists.

​For more information, bookings, or art inquiries,  contact us now email or call.

About Express Yourself Studios
Founded in 2008, Express Yourself Studios has been a leader in arts education and creative wellness. Now operating as a mobile and digital studio, Express Yourself Studios continues to bring the joy of artistic expression to schools, businesses, and individuals through engaging workshops, fine art, and online learning, while supporting and promoting emerging artists.

Maplewood, NJ – [February 21, 2025] – Simone Anthony-Brown, owner of Express Yourself Studios, has been selected as one of 20 artists to be featured in the third annual Art of NJ Digital Art Exhibition at Newark Liberty International Airport’s Terminal A. Chosen from nearly 400 submissions, her artwork, "Rhythms and Roots," will be displayed as part of this program, which highlights New Jersey artists and showcases the state’s diverse creative community to travelers from around the world.

The Art of NJ Digital Art Exhibition, a collaboration between the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey, Munich Airport NJ LLC, and the New Jersey State Council on the Arts, transforms Terminal A into an immersive digital art space. Large-scale screens throughout the terminal will display selected works, celebrating New Jersey’s artistic heritage and cultural vibrancy.

"I am deeply honored that my work, ‘Rhythms and Roots,’ has been selected among 20 artists from nearly 400 submissions for this exhibition. This piece reflects the stories, resilience, and cultural richness that shape our communities. Having it displayed at Newark Liberty International Airport allows me to connect with travelers from around the world, offering them a visual narrative of New Jersey’s vibrant artistic spirit," said Anthony-Brown.

"Rhythms and Roots" is a mixed-media work that reflects Anthony-Brown’s artistic focus on heritage, culture, and storytelling. Known for her use of collage, texture, and vibrant color, she explores themes that connect personal narratives to broader social conversations.

To mark this achievement, prints of "Rhythms and Roots" will be made available. Those interested in purchasing, may purchase a print here or contact [email protected] for more details.

About the Art of NJ Digital Art Exhibition

Now in its third year, the Art of NJ Digital Art Exhibition was created to celebrate local artists and give travelers a sense of place when they arrive in New Jersey. Led by the New Jersey State Council on the Arts, the EWR Terminal A Art Advisory Council selects works that highlight New Jersey’s diverse communities, landscapes, and history.

For More Information

For more details about Simone Anthony-Brown’s work, exhibitions, and upcoming projects, visit www.expressyourselfstudiosllc.com and follow her on Instagram, Facebook, and LinkedIn at @SimoneAnthonyBrown.

About Simone Anthony-Brown

Simone Anthony-Brown is an artist and owner of Express Yourself Studios. Her work spans mixed-media collage, acrylic, and watercolor, exploring themes of identity, culture, and storytelling. Her art has been featured in exhibitions including the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation Black History Month Art Exhibition (2025), Novartis Pharmaceuticals Black History Month Art Exhibition (2025), and the 20th Annual South Orange Maplewood Artists Studio Tour (2024). Her work is held in private collections across the U.S. and Canada.

Press Inquiries & Interviews:

For media interviews, high-resolution images, or additional details, please contact Express Yourself Studios at [email protected] or 973-763-5256.

This Valentine’s Day, celebrate love, friendship, and self-care with creative gifts that inspire joy and creativity! Whether you’re shopping for your Valentine, planning a fun Galentine’s Day, or treating yourself, we’ve rounded up 10 recommendations perfect for art lovers. From hands-on workshops to art supplies and books, there’s something for everyone.

1. Pinot & Pottery Workshops at Express Yourself Studios Spend an unforgettable Valentine’s Day evening or Galentine’s weekend creating pottery with your favorite people!

• Friday, February 14, 7 PM - 9 PM
• Saturday, February 15, 3 PM - 5 PM

Enjoy our last few interactive pottery sessions with all materials provided, plus the option to sip your favorite wine while you create. It’s the perfect creative date or girls’ night out! Reserve your spot here.

2. "The Artist’s Way" by Julia Cameron This best-selling book is a classic for creatives looking to unlock their artistic potential. It’s the perfect gift for someone looking to explore their creativity or deepen their artistic practice. Shop on Amazon.

3. Express Yourself Studios All Things Colorful T-Shirt and Sweatshirt Collection All Things Colorful T-Shirt Collection Celebrate your love of creativity with our exclusive All Things Colorful collection! These vibrant, art-inspired t-shirts and sweatshirts are available on the Express Yourself Studios website and Etsy. They make a thoughtful gift for the art lover who enjoys wearing their passion. Shop the collection here.

4."Big Magic: Creative Living Beyond Fear" by Elizabeth Gilbert This inspiring book dives into the nature of creativity, offering advice on how to embrace curiosity, overcome fear, and live a more creative life. It’s the perfect gift for anyone looking to nurture their artistic spirit and explore new creative horizons. Shop on Amazon.

5. "Abstract Painting: The Elements of Visual Language" by Jane Davies For the abstract art enthusiast, this book offers insights and techniques to take their creativity to the next level. Shop on Amazon.

6. Wine Glass Painting Workshop Get ready for some colorful fun at our Thursday, February 13, 7 PM - 9 PM Wine Glass Painting Workshop! Personalize your own wine glass while enjoying a relaxed evening with friends. Learn more here.

7. Creative Art Journal Kit Treat yourself or someone else to a journaling kit that includes markers, washi tape, and pre-designed journal prompts. Shop our recommended kit on Amazon.

8. Sculp’d Pottery Kits Explore ceramics at home with Sculp’d Pottery Kits, available for purchase through Express Yourself Studios’ online shop. These beginner-friendly kits come with everything needed to create stunning pottery pieces in the comfort of your home. Shop now.

9. Art Prints by Simone Anthony-Brown Brighten someone’s space with an inspiring art print by local artist and Express Yourself Studios owner Simone Anthony-Brown. Available exclusively through Express Yourself Studios, these vibrant works celebrate color, culture, and creativity. Browse prints here.

10. Paint by Numbers Kit Encourage relaxation and creativity with a fun paint by numbers kit! These kits are perfect for all skill levels and include everything needed—pre-printed canvas, paints, and brushes. Choose from stunning landscapes, abstract designs, or vibrant florals to suit any style.  Shop now.

Whether you’re spending Valentine’s Day with a special someone, a group of friends, or just focusing on self-love, these creative options are sure to make the occasion memorable.

Create more, and share the love this Valentine’s Day!