Donald M. Payne: “I would like to honor my dear friend, Ms. Gladys Barker Grauer, the ``Mother of Newark Arts'' for more than 70 years…”

“I would like to honor my dear friend, Ms. Gladys Barker Grauer, the ``Mother of Newark Arts'' for more than 70 years, after her passing recently at the age of 96. She was one of Newark's most dedicated artists and art supporters who leaves a legacy of great contributions behind. Fifty years ago, she opened the first art gallery in Newark, the Aard Studio Gallery. It was a place dedicated to art and encouraging artists of color to learn and express their unique talents. Through this gallery, Gladys helped inspire and launch the careers of African American artists across the city. Thanks to Gladys' efforts, the Newark Museum held the first exhibit of local artists, called Emerging and Established, in 1983. Gladys is one of the founding members of the Newark Arts Council, today known as Newark Arts. She even received the 2019 Lifetime Achievement Award from the Women's Caucus for Arts. Her art has been displayed locally, nationally, and even internationally. When in Newark, visitors can see one of Gladys' five murals, called Music Unites Us All, on the PSE&G Fairmount Heights Art Wall. Gladys has been a blessing to our cultural scene and to me personally as a great and valued friend and friend of all of her children. Gladys' life reminds us of the value of art in society, and she will be sorely missed. ____________________”