Sandra Charlap Exhibition

Sandra Charlap

Mapping the Future

July 7 - August 28, 2026

 

Artist Reception July 30, 6:30 - 8:30 PM

 

Sandra Charlap, Purple City

 

Sandra Charlap's aerial maps explore themes of home, belonging, and identity through watercolor, acrylic, mosaic, and more. From here in New Jersey to across the globe, you'll enjoy an artistic adventure through a wide variety of places both real and imagined, as seen from above. 

 

Sandra Charlap, Night Streets

 

Sandra Charlap, Suburbs


Artist Statement

My aerial maps are inspired by my battle with breast cancer as a single mother. This big step away from the life I knew made me reflect on the concepts of home, belonging, and identity. As a survivor, my life became much more vibrant and filled with opportunities to go anywhere and be anything I wanted, and I began reflecting that in my art.  

My paintings and mosaics depict places both real and imagined. Some places I have been to, and others I have yet to visit. Just like life’s journey, my maps are abstract. Even with a place in mind, I let the process lead me.

I work in watercolor, acrylic, glass mosaic, gouache, gold leaf, ink, and pastel – often multiple media in one piece, reflecting life’s busyness. My goal is to help others discover their “home” and connect to their journeys as well.
 

Sandra Charlap

 

About the Artist

Sandra Charlap studied Illustration at Parsons School of Design and holds a BFA with a minor in  printmaking from Montclair State University. Her 30+ year career began with Sandra Levine Ceramics, featured in ABC Carpet & Home and Henri Bendel. One of the main focuses of her work is custom aerial maps of places both real and imagined, including a vinyl wrap mural for South Orange-Maplewood School District.

Sandra’s art has been in local & international exhibitions, including four years in a row at Newark Arts Festival. She also leads classes, workshops & installations at various venues & nonprofits, including JESPY House and South Orange/Maplewood Community Coalition on Race.

 

For exhibit questions or press inquiries contact: 
Deborah Popowski, Adult Services Librarian
dpopowski@westorangelibrary.org | 973-736-0198, ext. 214