In recognition of August as American Artist Appreciation Month, Senator Joseph P. Addabbo, Jr. hosted an art therapy class at the Peter Cardella Senior Center in Ridgewood on August 19, 2026, featuring local artist Gennaro Kravitz as the instructor.
During the session, seniors followed along as Kravitz demonstrated how to draw floral arrangements, cityscapes, and people, using markers and a dry erase board. Each participant received a new package of crayons to keep, along with stock paper to create their own artwork. Kravitz guided the group through his process, showing how simple shapes and affordable materials can be used to create colorful and joyful designs. His artistic style is inspired by the 1970s Pattern and Decoration movement.
As he worked, Kravitz reminded attendees that art is meant to be enjoyed, not perfected. He also explained that drawings do not need to be exact replicas. “That’s what photographs are for,” Kravitz said. He introduced the group to the four basic shapes—circle, square, triangle, and rectangle—as the foundation for several drawings, including a recreation of one of his own pieces titled “Orange Man.”
Kravitz encouraged participants to use drawing and coloring as a way to relax, reduce stress, and take a break from televisions, computers, and cell phones. “Take your crayons, doodle, and create. It draws your eyes and your hands away from whatever was stressing you out and helps you make something delightful,” Kravitz said. “And once you’ve made that delightful image, you can put it on the refrigerator with a magnet or frame it and give it as a gift to someone you love, like your Aunt Sadie in Jersey City. Instead of buying her an expensive scarf that she’s never going to wear, you’re sharing something personal and meaningful. It becomes a gift that brings joy both to you and her.”
“You’re never too old to create something beautiful,” Addabbo said. “This event gave our seniors a chance to relax, express themselves, and discover how art can bring joy at any age.” Senator Addabbo would like to thank Peter Cardella Senior Center and its Executive Director, Barbara Toscano, for supporting and hosting the program.
Artist Gennaro Kravitz shows seniors how to duplicate one of his art works known
as “Orange Man.”
Gennaro Kravitz, fourth from left, joins the seniors as they show off their artwork
and is joined by Senator Addabbo’s Office Manager, John D’Angelo.
Senator Addabbo shakes hands with Gennaro Kravitz and congratulates him on
teaching another successful class.
Senator Addabbo with the class.