By Tina Foley
In just over the past year, three exciting arts-oriented shops have opened in Jenkintown’s business district and they invite you to stop in. Don’t be thwarted by the lingering roadwork – think of it as a challenge. And besides, the walkable nature of Jenkintown is one of its unique draws. Now get ready to be impressed at how artsy we have become.
Just a glance down Yorkway Place and you know you are somewhere special. You may have to step around some construction debris, but please do, and you will be rewarded as this charming pedestrian walkway leads you to one of Jenkintown’s jewels, La Maison du Maroc. This compact gallery is a Moroccan cultural experience. Open for about a year, the inviting space has been crafted with design elements incorporating geometric patterns found in Moroccan art and architecture. No wonder, since owner Ayoub Touzani was born and raised in Morocco and has a background in architecture. He has lived in the States for 30 years now, but travels to Morocco frequently in search of new pieces for his gallery.
Touzani features different pieces of his collection rotating every three months between works of art, craft and design – from original paintings to jewelry to furniture. Currently artist Mounira Belkahia’s colorful oils and acrylics can be viewed through the end of January. Additionally, you will find pottery, cut metal wall sconces and intricately carved wooden trunks, to name just a few. La Maison du Maroc also offers a number of items under $20, and with Touzani’s friendly assistance you will assuredly find something unique.
New to Jenkintown this past summer is Swan Gallery, located on the corner of Old York Road and Greenwood Avenue. Owners Roger and Ida Constantino researched the perfect location for over a year and a half and decided on Jenkintown. “It’s the only gallery of its kind between Center City and New Hope,” says Ida. Roger designed this graceful airy space with attention paid to lighting and flow. As director, Ida filled the walls with over 200 pieces of original art of all mediums including photography.
“We are excited to be in Jenkintown and look forward to seeing more residents of Jenkintown stop in,” says Ida. Swan Gallery recently had its first exhibit opening featuring four pastel artists. Plans are being made to bring in new exhibits about every six weeks. You will find works by local, national and international artists. And with pieces starting at $200 it is possible to purchase original art without breaking the bank.
Yet another recent addition to Jenkintown is the Carole Alter Studio, nearby at 303 Old York Road. This place of inspiration presents a wide variety of functional art for body and home. Here you will find Alter’s soulful lamps made of mosaic bases and handcrafted paper shades, her unique jewelry, and clothing designs. In addition, Alter offers works of other artists, each item having a story and personal connection in keeping with her aesthetic to elevate the spirit. Soon to arrive: metal wall sculptures by a California artist whose work she was drawn to at an art show in San Francisco. With a wide range in prices, Alter has taken care to offer something for every budget, perfect for holiday shopping.
All three of these businesses will participate in Jenkintown’s Holiday Shopping Nights, starting November 30th and continuing each Wednesday evening through December (see related article). During this time, Carole Alter Studio invites you to stop in for complimentary “charms and chocolate” while Swan Gallery will be raffling an original miniature artwork and easel. La Masion du Maroc has not yet announced their plans for these special evenings, so you will have to come in and be surprised. More than just a shopping trip, experience the artistic growth in Jenkintown.
