SOMA Living September 2025

STUDIO TOUR SOMA

South Orange / Maplewood Artist’s Studio Tour: 22nd Year Celebration Mark your calendars for November 1 and 2, 2025, as the 22nd Annual Studio Tour SOMA invites art lovers to explore the vibrant artistic community of South Orange and Maplewood. “This self-guided tour showcases the incredible talent of over 100 professional and emerging artists,” says Oksana Berzinsh, the event coordinator.

Visitors will discover multiple-artist venues, including the Parlor at the Woodland and the Dehart Community Center in Maplewood, as well as the Loft at SOPAC and the Skate House in South Orange. “Engaging directly with artists creates meaningful connections that enrich our community,” Oksana emphasizes. Before the tour, attendees can experience the “Unveiled 25” preview exhibition at the Herb + Milly Iris Gallery, featuring works by over 60 select artists from the tour. The exhibition runs from September 11 to November 1, 2025, and presents an excellent opportunity for visitors to get a glimpse of the artistic talent on display. Oksana also highlights the collaborative outreach program with Columbia High School, which this year awarded the Pat Bell Scholarship to three promising students: Claire Hirsh, Saanvi Rohtgi, and Olivia Welch. “We are committed to supporting the next generation of artists,” she notes. As the Studio Tour SOMA celebrates over two decades of artistic richness, Oksana invites everyone to join the festivities as sponsors, volunteers, or visitors, saying, “Your participation strengthens the cultural tapestry of our communities.” For more details, visit [studiotoursoma.com](https://studiotoursoma.com/meet-the-artists/).

The Achieve Foundation celebrates its 23rd annual Newstead 5K, scheduled for Saturday, September 20th at the South Mountain Annex. “We invite runners and walkers of all ages to be part of a fun-filled day that supports our local students,” says Eileen Collins Neri, Director of Achieve Foundation. Starting at 9:00 AM, this event promises to bring the community together in a shared mission to enhance education in the South Orange-Maplewood School District. This year’s event serves as a fall classic where participants can enjoy a picturesque course through the Newstead neighborhood. Proceeds from the race directly benefit initiatives like the Volunteer Tutor Program, Educator Grants, and STEM Education. “Every dollar raised makes a real impact,” Neri adds. NEWSTEAD 5K Lace Up for Education! Join the Newstead 5K on September 20th!

Sponsors are a critical component of our fundraising, and this support allows us in turn to support the students, families and educators in our district by addressing inequities, inspiring innovation and fostering community. Participants can register online at [Newstead 5K](https://runsignup.com) to take advantage of early bird pricing. Children can also participate in engaging events like the “Toddler Dash” and the ½ mile Fun Run. Achieve aims for sustainability this year by providing reusable cups for all participants. Join us in reducing waste while supporting education. Grab your running shoes and mark your calendar for a fantastic community event that inspires our future!

SEPTEMBER 2025 | SOMA LIVING 29

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