SMART ART: Paintings by members of the New York City United Federation of Retired Teachers will be on view at Gourgaud Gallery in Cranbury June 2 through June 27. An artist reception will be held on Sunday, June 5 from 1 to 3 p.m.

Gourgaud Gallery in Cranbury will host an exhibit by members of the New York City United Federation of Retired Teachers from June 2 through June 27. Many of the exhibiting members were in a painting class run by the United Federation of Teachers as part of the SI Beagle Program, a program designed to be a part of continuing learning by the New York City Teachers Union, which was located in Manalapan as part of the Union’s outreach program.

The classes are currently virtual. Chapters are in the five boroughs of New York City and outreach programs in various states and countries throughout the world. Linda Gilbert, chairperson of Gourgaud Gallery and member of the Cranbury Arts Council, was the original instructor, followed by Deborah Rosen. Gilbert started the painting class in New Jersey in 2010.

The artists include Gilbert, Rosen, Donna Rittner. and Frances Gunther, who have all exhibited before in various shows at the Gourgaud Gallery. They also welcome newcomers to this exhibit, who are also retired teachers from New York City.

An artist reception will be held on Sunday, June 5 from 1 to 3 p.m. at the Gallery. The exhibiting artists will be present. Light refreshments will be served. On the day of the reception, there will be a basket of unframed paintings ranging from $25-$35.

The Cranbury Arts Council provides arts-oriented programs, workshops, and performances aimed at enriching the cultural experiences of the community and keeping the creative spirit alive in adults and children. Their mission is to foster, support, educate, inspire, and promote artists and art appreciation in the community.

As part of a nonprofit Cranbury Arts Council, Gourgaud Gallery donates 20 percent of art sales to the Cranbury Arts Council and its programs that support arts in the community. Checks made out to the artist, or cash, are accepted as payment.

Gourgaud Gallery is located on the second floor of the Cranbury Town Hall at 23-A North Main Street in Cranbury. Gallery hours are Monday through Friday 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. For more information, visit cranburyartscouncil.org.