What began in 1974 as a grassroots effort to support local printmakers has evolved into one of New Jersey’s most innovative community arts organizations. Today, Frontline Arts is a nonprofit using the power of socially engaged art to connect people, promote healing and foster inclusivity — one sheet of paper at a time.
Formerly known as the Printmaking Center of New Jersey, the organization was founded by a group of artists committed to preserving the craft of printmaking and supporting working artists across the state. In 2018, the nonprofit was officially renamed Frontline Arts after merging with its fiscal project, Combat Paper NJ — a veteran-led papermaking program founded in 2011.
At the heart of Frontline Arts is its flagship program, Frontline Paper, which teaches veterans to transform their military uniforms into handmade paper. Through a process of deconstruction, reclamation and communication, veterans are empowered to share their stories and process their experiences through artistic expression.
“We believe everyone can be an artist,” the organization states. “Our goal is to connect communities through the brave space of creativity and empathy.”
Operating out of the Ralph T. Reeve Cultural Center in Branchburg, Frontline Arts offers professional printmaking and papermaking studios, gallery exhibitions, mobile outreach programs and a wide range of in-person and virtual workshops for all skill levels. The studio space serves not only as a creative hub, but also a community resource center dedicated to environmental sustainability, accessibility and inclusion.
Frontline Arts places a special focus on underrepresented groups. Programs are intentionally designed to break down social barriers and build bridges across communities — whether through veteran support, immigrant storytelling, or arts-based responses to public health crises.
Their less-toxic studio initiative, use of recyclable materials and land acknowledgement practice reflect a deep commitment to sustainability and stewardship. Frontline Arts has also adapted its veteran-based model to work with healthcare professionals, pandemic-affected communities and immigrant families in the South Bronx and Queens.
With a history spanning five decades, Frontline Arts continues to evolve. Through exhibitions, mobile printmaking programs, and national partnerships, it remains committed to its founding values of education, access and the power of the arts to bring people together.
Contact:
Frontline Arts
440 River Road, Branchburg, NJ
Phone: (908) 725-2110
Email: info@frontlinearts.org
Website: frontlinearts.org
“Our goal is to connect communities through the brave space of creativity and empathy.” - Frontline Arts