African American Heritage Museum of Southern New Jersey Hosts NEW Jersey Gents Exhibit
The African American Heritage Museum of Southern New Jersey (AAHMSNJ) celebrates the return of “Jersey Gents,” a dynamic and thought-provoking exhibit that showcases the artistry and vision of men in the arts. The exhibit features 15 local male artists and offers a rare collective exploration of creativity, identity, and cultural expression through a variety of mediums and perspectives. Jersey Gents will be on view from October 4 through December 27, 2025 at the Museum’s Newtonville location in the Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Center at 661 Jackson Rd. in Newtonville, NJ.
The opening reception will take place Sunday, October 5, from 1 to 4 PM at Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Center. Guests will have the opportunity to meet the artists and engage with their work. All works on display are original pieces and available for purchase.
The opening reception will feature music by DJ Hammer, setting a vibrant atmosphere for the afternoon. Light refreshments will be served, and guests will enjoy convenient free parking on-site.
The exhibit will spotlight featured artist Patrick Freeman (pictured right), whose lifelong dedication to service, mentorship, and creativity shines through his art. Freeman, born in Atlantic City into a family of musicians and athletes, has dedicated his life to service, mentorship, and creativity. In Camden, NJ, Freeman played a vital role in community development, supporting programs that promoted youth engagement, wellness, and public health. Known affectionately as “Coach Pat,” Freeman co-founded a youth football league that shaped generations of young athletes, teaching lessons of discipline, teamwork, and perseverance. His artwork reflects the same spirit of resilience, community, and creativity that has defined his life’s journey.
In addition, Jersey Gents honors the talents of 14 other artists: Quinton Greene (his Hint of Ebony is pictured above), Wilmer “Butch” Swigget, Tony Nelson, Ruben Garcia, Sidney B. Gary, John Morris, Romare Wilson, Melvin Irons, Jay Campbell Phillips, Ronald “Squirrel” Croudy, Jeffrey Davis, Fred Bacon, Lawerence Faust, and Leonard Wilkinson. Together, these artists form a powerful roster whose work spans painting, drawing, sculpture, photography, and mixed media.
Ralph E. Hunter, Sr., the museum founder and president, curated this exhibit. “Jersey Gents is a tribute to the depth of talent among male artists in New Jersey and beyond. By bringing together 15 unique voices, the exhibit forms a powerful conversation about creativity, history, and community. It’s an invitation to witness how these men use art to reflect not just their own journeys, but also the shared experiences that shape us all.”
Jersey Gents reflects a wide spectrum of artistic practices and personal stories, weaving together themes of resilience, cultural pride, masculinity, community, and the complex beauty of everyday life. By highlighting both individual voices and the collective strength of male artists, Jersey Gents offers audiences an inspiring look at the role of art in shaping identity and heritage.
Admission to the museum is free, but donations are encouraged.
