“SUN RIZING”: More than 50 artists who have exhibited their work in small group or solo shows at the Trenton City Museum at Ellarslie during the past 40 years will be featured in “Pushing 40,” running September 15 through November 10. An opening reception is on Saturday, September 15 from 7 to 8:30 p.m.

The Trenton Museum Society has announced “Pushing 40,” a “reunion” exhibit celebrating 40 years of promoting fine art by artists in the greater Trenton region. More than 50 artists who have exhibited their work in small group or solo shows at the Trenton City Museum during the past 40 years are returning to the Ellarslie Mansion in Cadwalader Park from September 15 to November 10. An opening reception is on Saturday, September 15 from 7 to 8:30 p.m.

For four decades, Ellarslie has served as both venue and gathering place for local and regional artists. In its infancy, while the Museum Society worked to develop the historical collections of the Trenton City Museum, its leadership forged a special relationship with the newly formed artists’ collective in the city: the Trenton Artists Workshop Association (TAWA). Through this relationship, a thriving community of local, contemporary artists were introduced to the museum. For many now-notable regional artists, their show at Ellarslie was the first official recognition of their role as an artist, often marking the beginning of a successful career as a professional in the arts world. Ellarslie also provided a welcoming space for local artists to connect with each other and form a supportive, engaging community.

The artwork on display in “Pushing 40” speaks to the role Ellarslie has played in helping to cultivate artistic excellence over the past four decades. The invited artists have also been asked to share some personal reflections about their relationship with Ellarslie.

For more information and a list of participating artists, visit www.ellarslie.org/pushing-40,