The Voorhees Art Commission has named Donna Moyer artist of the month for her life-long dedication to the arts and exceptional contributions to the local art scene.
A retired art teacher, Moyer has spent decades nurturing creativity in both children and adults, and her work is known to audiences in both New Jersey and Pennsylvania.
Moyer said her journey into the world of art was inspired by her mother, a significant influence.
“I have always been interested in the arts,” she recalled. “My mother was very creative and would inspire me with her own endeavors. Her early involvement in Girl Scouting allowed her to attend various programs that promoted the arts, which further fueled her passion.”
Moyer’s own professional journey began at then-Glassboro State College, now Rowan University, where she earned a degree in art education. For 32 years, she taught upper elementary-school art in Winslow Township, where she had the opportunity to shape young minds and foster a love for art. She spent 15 years teaching both children and adults at the Croft Farm Center for the Arts in Cherry Hill and the Voorhees Art Center.
Since retiring, Moyer has embraced a wide range of artistic mediums, including watercolor, textiles, 3-D assemblage and pen and ink. But her recent focus has been on creating intricate pine needle designs, a craft rooted in the traditions of the Seminole Indians.
Using long-leaf pine needles, some measuring up to 17 inches, Moyer crafts radial designs with various stitches, colored needles and beads. The centers of her designs are made from repurposed plastic cups that she paints, colors and melts to achieve unique effects. Each of the detailed creations takes between 25 to 35 hours to complete.
Moyer’s work has not gone unnoticed. Two years ago, she won first place in the state for one of her pine needle designs.
“It’s relaxing and exciting as the forms and colors come together,” the artist reflected. “I am delighted when one sells, knowing a slice of my life is on display in someone’s house.”
Moyer’s art has been featured in various shows and is currently displayed in galleries throughout New Jersey and Pennsylvania. As for being recognized by the Voorhees Art Commission, she described herself as “thrilled.”
The commission was established in 2022 to provide a platform for local artists and enable them to share their talents with the community. It advises the township on arts and cultural strategy; helps develop educational opportunities for the art community; and manages township art programs, exhibits, events and gallery displays.
Despite recent challenges – including an April fire at the Town Center – the commission continues to hold bi-monthly public meetings. Those who want to get involved with the organization or attend a meeting can find more information on the township website, voorheesnj.com.
