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Art studio begins 10th year in Bordentown
from 5-23 BC
By Thomas Kelly
When people think of art studios with classes, they think of a busy colorful room with easels, painting tools and supplies, maybe clay wheels and drying rack with bowls and vases. At Leaping Dog Art Studios, they have found this vision.
Begun in 2014 by art teacher Jennifer Szeto, the studio was a way for her to stay local for her growing family. Begun at the Bordentown Open Arts Stage complex, on 130 South, Leaping Dog Art Studio is now located in the heart of Bordentown City, at 325 Farnsworth Ave.
Szeto was born and raised in Howell, New Jersey. Her family has its roots in Hong Kong. There were artistic influences from her mother who was skilled in fashion and interior design. Her uncle who was proficient in calligraphy was also an early influence.
Szeto studied fine art illustration and graduated from Syracuse University. Before settling into work her brother gave her the advice to travel now, when you have very few obligations. Szeto went to China to teach English at a university in Nanjing. She taught at Nanjing University of Science and Technology during the 2000-2001 academic year.
Attaining her master’s degree in art teaching from the University of the Arts in Philadelphia, Szeto also studied in London at Central Saint Martin’s School of Art and Design and at the Arts Student League in New York City.
Szeto taught art in the Philadelphia school system in charter schools for 6 years and then was a long-term substitute teacher in New Hope, Pennsylvania.
“I think all humans are creative. I see it in the children, drawing freely and boldly. It is so good to see the children at the studio. They are so happy to make art.” says Szeto.
“As Picasso said, it took me years to paint like Raphael, but a lifetime to paint like a child.”
“I see it as a natural way for children to express themselves. For adults it is intrinsic and can be therapeutic. Drawing well is also a matter of learning how to observe, how to look at things. You need to set the goal
See LEAPING, Page 10
