Reflected Lowlands: Wetlands on the Urban Edge

February 1, 2026 - March 8, 2026

A Dutch perspective on Hudson County wetlands
Drawings and Paintings by Hens Breet February 1, 2026–March 8, 2026

Hens Breet’s work explores the subtle and often precarious intersections between nature and urban life in Hudson County. Growing up in the Netherlands, Hens was shaped by landscapes defined by water, lowlands, and the careful balance between human habitation and natural systems. Arriving in New Jersey, he found a resonance in the Meadowlands, the tidal wetlands, and marshes of Hudson County—places where sky, water, and land meet, and where human development encroaches delicately on fragile ecosystems.

Through painting and mixed media, Hens examines this tension, capturing light on water, the rhythm of reeds in the wind, and the quiet persistence of marshland life. The reflective surfaces of wetlands serve as both literal and metaphorical mirrors, inviting contemplation of how urbanization shapes, disrupts, and coexists with natural landscapes.

In this exhibition, Hens invites viewers to consider not only the beauty of these wetlands, but also their vulnerability—the delicate balance between water, sky, and the ever-present urban edge. By viewing Hudson County through a Dutch lens, Hens hopes to illuminate both the familiarity and the strangeness of landscapes that are, at once, local and historically resonant.

 

Hens Breet is a Dutch-American painter and multimedia artist based in Hudson County, New Jersey. He studied painting and image media technology at the Utrecht School of the Arts (HKU) and has spent a 30-year career exploring the intersections of traditional and digital art, with a particular focus on landscape and environment. After decades as an interactive designer and web developer, he returned to painting full- time, bringing a unique perspective shaped by both technological and artistic practice.

Breet’s work examines the delicate balance between urban development and natural landscapes. In Reflected Lowlands: Wetlands on the Urban Edge, he draws inspiration from the Meadowlands and tidal wetlands of Hudson County, reflecting on the interplay of water, sky, and human presence. His Dutch heritage informs his vision, connecting local wetlands to centuries-old lowland landscapes in the Netherlands and inviting viewers to consider the fragility and beauty of these liminal spaces.

“Walking Around Hoboken 40 Years Later”

November 16 - December 23, 2025

As a young boy, Kevin McCloskey was exposed to the world of art thanks to the “Learn to Draw with Jon Gnagy” TV Show, which was filmed in the Empire State Building.

A pivotal moment in his development as an artist was when he was allowed to draw on the blackboard during recess in Mrs. O’Brien’s Kindergarten class. She was so taken with Kevin’s drawing that she left it up for the next class to see. Kevin considers this to be his first exhibit! Recognized for his emerging talent, Kevin began taking drawing classes with the artist Hannah Hoffman in Elizabeth, NJ.

Kevin went on to study at the School of Visual Arts in 1985 and 1986. He was focused on the field of visual journalism, which enabled him to draw for the New York Times and Village Voice. A highlight of his education was taking a course with Art Spiegelman, the author of the graphic novel Maus.

During this time, he developed an idea for a book called Walking Around Hoboken. This book was his masters thesis and consisted of 52 pages of original illustrations depicting Hoboken. Kevin conducted research at the Stevens Institute of Technology to develop this guidebook. Some highlights include drawings of the Clam Broth House, Mayor Vezzetti, and a home on 12th Street where 11 people perished during the period of the Hoboken fires.

It is the 40 year anniversary of the publishing of Kevin’s book. The Museum is proud to feature Kevin’s groundbreaking illustrations from Walking Around Hoboken in the Upper Gallery. This exhibit is a precious time capsule reminding us of Hoboken’s past.

WE ALL STOP DOWN HERE, YOU’LL STOP TOO!

Sept. 28 - Nov. 9, 2025

As a Marketing Art and Design student at Middlesex Community College, Jackie Post was once told by a professor that only five classmates in the course would make it in the art world. Upon hearing this sentiment, Jackie made a commitment to always uphold her artistic integrity and stay true to herself.

Jackie has channelled this unrelenting outsider sensibility to her career in visual arts, which has included positions as a prop master, production coordinator, prop and set stylist, and art director for print, web and B2B platforms. She developed a signature out-of-the-box aesthetic and keen attention to detail that permeates her work.

Shy by nature, Jackie found her favorite mode of expression as a street photographer. Working primarily in black and white with available light, Jackie has a gift for capturing spontaneous and ephemeral moments. Jackie cites the photographer John Brill as a role model in creating a body of work that focuses solely on expressing her individuality. Jackie’s work has found a dedicated audience and has been exhibited in galleries from San Francisco to Frenchtown, NJ.

Jackie lived in Hoboken for 36 years and many may know her as a former co-owner from 1998 to 2014 of the legendary Maxwells. This exhibit consists of over 25 photographs, 8 skate decks, and videos that are candid portraits taken from the 1990s up until the COVID pandemic.

One day while riding as a passenger in a car on Bloomfield Street, Jackie noticed an electric street sign stating WE ALL STOP DOWN HERE, YOU’LL STOP TOO! Jackie felt the universe was guiding her to find this sign. She had no idea what she would do with it, or what would come of it, but she quickly gathered herself to snap a photo before the moment passed. Jackie felt there was something about the sign that captured Hoboken’s bravado and youthful energy.

This exhibit is generously supported by the LAP Program of the Hudson County Office of Cultural & Heritage Affairs/Tourism Development.

Art by Eugene

August 9 - September 21, 2025

“Art by Eugene” show is a celebration of Hoboken’s past and future. Uptown has been Eugene’s neighborhood and home base since the 1980’s. He moved from California to Hoboken where he worked as an architect and later in 2000 opened his project management firm downtown.

Eugene’s portfolio includes numerous impressive projects, hotels, office buildings and residential. He left a legacy here in Hoboken as well: he worked on remodeling the Madison Bar and Grill and added four stories to the Union League Club on 7th and Hudson along with many others.

As an architect sketching was a routine part of his work life. As he moved closer to retirement Eugene started to experiment with oil painting, then acrylics and finally settled on watercolor.

In this show, visitors will find familiar spots like Johnny Pepperoni’s and Pier 13 depicted in Eugene’s work. What you’ll also find is the joy that art brings to Eugene. As he has said many times, “What good is a painting if others cannot enjoy the view?”

Coconut Mask Expo by Bebe Bambu

June 29 - August 3, 2025

Gabriel Rosario Mongil aka Bebe Bambu pays tribute to Puerto Rican folklore with his collection of Vejigantes. This emblematic character in Puerto Rican history holds a fascinating story and context that traces its origin to the times of colonization.

Adorned with a colorful mask, the Vejigante is a beautiful character portrayed in the carnival celebrations of Santiago Apóstol Matamoros.

Through this exhibit, Bebe Bambu is reimagining the Vejigante in a modern context, inspired by the Hip Hop movement and Puerto Rican culture, to present the Vejigante as a hero and symbol of Indigenous and African ancestry.

Bebe Bambu’s creative journey started at the renowned Escuela Central de Artes Visuales/Central School of Visual Arts in Puerto Rico. He pursued his undergraduate work at the University of Puerto Rico, and graphic design studies at the University of Monterrey in Mexico. He is known for his innovative work with murals, including his newest project on 10th street between Avenue B and C on the Lower East Side, which was unveiled at the Loisaida Festival. Bebe Bambu’s work explores Puerto Rican identity and proudly embraces its Taino and African roots.

Bebe Bambu will be conducting a Vejigante mask-making workshop series on July 13, 20 & 27. Learn more and sign up here!

Can You See Me Now? Capturing Beauty on Hoboken’s West Side: Photographs by Roberto Rosa III

March 16 - April 27, 2025

Roberto Rosa III is a photographer, poet, and educator born and raised in Manhattan, NYC’s Lower East Side (L.E.S.). Roberto currently resides in the Downtown Jersey City area, but has been an active member/educator within the Hoboken community since 2010.

He has documented life as it happens around him, but has discovered a passion for showcasing parts of the community often overlooked and misrepresented. When local athlete and teacher’s aide Damon “Nunu” Murray was tragically killed in an act of gun violence last April, this mission became more urgent than ever for Roberto.

Through the HHA Summer Arts Workshop series, presented by Mayor Ravi Bhalla, The City of Hoboken, and Dance With Derrick, Roberto organized a poetry and photography workshop for kids ages 8-15 from the west side of Hoboken. This neighborhood is one that Roberto feels deeply connected to: it’s where his wife, Shakera Frazier-Rosa grew up, and where many of her relatives still reside. Some of the kids enrolled in the workshop were even children of Shakera’s childhood friends.

Roberto guided them in using their five senses to document Hoboken, their neighborhood, building, and apartment through the art of poetry. What became evident through their writing is that many kids knew Nunu and were deeply affected by his death.

Roberto then asked the kids what they find beautiful in their surroundings in order to capture it with photos. They answered that they felt that there is nothing around them that they find beautiful. Seeing this as a profound teachable moment, Roberto asked if he could take photos of the kids in front of their buildings. In his eyes, he insisted that he sees the beauty and promise of each child and was motivated by a sense of mission for others to see the kids the way he does.

This exhibit showcases the collection of Roberto’s photographs from the summer of 2024. He invites us as the viewers to ensure that each child feels seen, validated, and uplifted in their community.

Special thanks to the Hudson County Office of Cultural & Heritage Affairs/Tourism Development for supporting this exhibit.

From My Hoboken Balcony: The Photographs of Philip Jean

March 16 - April 27, 2025

The Hoboken Historical Museum is pleased to present “From My Hoboken Balcony: The Photographs of Philip Jean” in the Upper Gallery!

Philip Jean was exposed to commercial photography in an unconventional manner. At the age of 14, he was frequently skipping school and got in trouble. Philip was sent to an alternative high school as a result. One of the course options was commercial photography. Philip promptly enrolled. He ended up majoring in photography and graduated first in his class.

Upon graduating, Philip made his living shooting photographs for advertisements as a commercial photographer and did so for over 30 years. He drew inspiration from the greats: Hiro, Richard Avedon, and Irving Penn.

The lifestyle was grueling though. He was frequently traveling and sometimes working 7 days a week. After experiencing a heart attack in 2010, Philip transitioned to a gentler shooting schedule. He was also determined to simply enjoy himself, not just sell products.

Philip has lived in Hoboken on and off since 1980. In 2013, he moved into the senior building Fox Hill Gardens. His apartment is on the 8th floor. One of the signature features is his balcony with a completely unobstructed view of Manhattan. Philip began taking photos of the city at all times of day, all year round, often accompanied by his cat, “Lil’ Dube.”

“From My Hoboken Balcony: The Photographs of Philip Jean” presents Philip’s stunning photographs of the New York City skyline all shot from his balcony. His work showcases the dynamic beauty of the landscape. Philip’s photographs invite viewers to appreciate the natural rhythms that surround the city. He also reminds us to live in the moment and savor the ever-present beauty of life.

Sirens in the Night: Drawings from the 1980s by Tim Daly

Jan. 6 - Mar. 9, 2025

From a young age, Tim Daly was drawn to comic books and comic strips in newspapers. He recalls fond memories of reading the comic “Prince Valiant” growing up in his native Jersey City. This was Tim’s first exposure to the power of storytelling in art.

Tim attended Hudson Catholic Regional High School, from which he graduated at the age of 17. Here he was able to enroll in art classes for the first time. Tim had found his calling and received an excellent foundation in the arts.

Determined to continue his creative journey, Tim enrolled in the School of Visual Arts in 1971. While photography and videography were gaining popularity among his peers, Tim drew inspiration from impressionist painters, including Edgar Degas, Eugène Delacroix, and Henri de Toulouse-Lautrec. These artists left an imprint on Tim’s consciousness, and deeply influenced his point of view as an artist.

A pivotal moment in Tim’s life was moving to uptown Hoboken in 1977. Tim has witnessed firsthand dramatic changes in our city, most especially in housing. He initially moved into a 1000 sq. ft. apartment with a view of the Empire State Building for $100 a month. Meanwhile, his Puerto Rican neighbors were confronted with a different reality. Within 10 short years, 7 tenement buildings occupied by Puerto Rican families were gutted and converted into condominiums.

“Sirens in the Night: Drawings from the 1980s by Tim Daly” references, and is influenced by, the period of Hoboken Fires that led to a drastically different housing landscape and rapid gentrification. Tim recalls the inescapable smell of smoke and how entire families perished. Puerto Rican families, and other tenants of color, were steadily driven out of Hoboken due to arson, intimidation, and the subsequent rising cost of living.

Political changes were also underway and Tim jumped into the scene. He became involved in Thomas Vezzetti’s campaign for mayor, who walked the streets with a bullhorn. Tim along with his wife, Sheilah Scully, rolled up their sleeves and became advocates as founding members of the 1108-1116 Upper Park Avenue Tenants Association. Thanks to their efforts, they won a condominium conversion battle that spanned four years. Through this experience, Tim and Sheilah met the documentary filmmaker Nora Jacobson, tenants’ rights advocate Tom Olivieri, and many of their dearest friends. Tim shares: “Never doubt the great power in finding common cause with your neighbors. My life proves that.”

Tim Daly’s profound exhibit captures cityscapes of a lost era, including carefree children playing on the street, and men sitting outdoors smoking, deep in discussion, with graffiti in the background. Rent was cheap, and the vibrant sense of community ever-present. Tim honors this unique time in Hoboken history, and invites us as the viewers to do the same.

A special thank you to the Hudson County Office of Cultural&Heritage Affairs/ Tourism Development for supporting this exhibit.

Recent Works by Raymond Smith

Nov. 3 - Dec. 22, 2024

Raymond Smith is an accomplished painter, illustrator, and graphic designer, specializing in figurative art. Ray grew up near Lake Michigan in Hammond, Indiana. He credits his Mom and Grandma for encouraging his entry into art. Whenever Ray would sit down to draw, his Grandma would say, “don’t trace.” She believed in Ray’s talent and ability to develop his own artistic point of view. These were prescient words – Ray is a true original.

A precocious and bright child, Ray would often skip school and visit the local library. What made him most happy was art. Ray’s first commission was from his Aunt Margaret who requested a painting of her daughter’s wedding. Ray was only 11-years-old at the time. He also recalls Mr. Jacobsen, an energetic teacher fresh out of college, who exposed his high school students to different artistic mediums. This is where Ray developed his love for the craft of impressionist painting.

After high school, Ray headed to Chicago in search of creative opportunities. He was hired as an apprentice at the MoonInk design studio. The environment was conducive to Ray’s creativity. He eventually became a Junior Art Director and his portfolio expanded to include graphic design work. He also made time to enroll in a night course at the American Academy of Art, which sharpened his graphic design skills. He went on to serve as an Art Director for a quarterly bank magazine, which enabled him to broaden his network to meet illustrators and photographers.

The east coast was calling to Ray, though, and he made his way to Hoboken in the 1980’s. He took up work in advertising and design for school textbooks. He recalls seeing Mayor Vezzetti walking down the street with a bullhorn on one of his first days in town. This was also when he met HHM Director Bob Foster and even shared a darkroom with him.

Ray learned the importance of affordable housing, especially crucial for artists. He waited in line for 36 hours, with a broken arm, at that, in order to get an apartment in Marine View Plaza. This is now his home base and studio. He lives close to the Hudson River, and is continually inspired by it.

Ray serves as an art instructor for the Stevens Cooperative School. He has been teaching art for twenty five years for various non-profits and schools. He imparts his love of art to the next generation this way.

Among his proudest accomplishments, Ray cites his work in designing “Greetings from Hoboken,” which he has been selling for almost 20 years. Ray’s Hoboken Children’s Memorial Flag can be seen on permanent display at Hoboken City Hall. It was the first public 9/11 memorial in Hoboken. Ray is also featured in a recent book, Museum: Behind the Scenes at the Metropolitan Museum of Art, by Danny Danziger.

In his art, Ray always seeks out the most unique aspects of an environment. The “Recent Works by Raymond Smith” exhibit in the Upper Gallery encapsulates the originality of Hoboken through his iconic impressionist paintings. From Church Square Park, to Karma Kafe, viewers will delight in Ray’s work.

“Recent Works” by Raymond Smith will be on display from November 3, 2024-December 22, 2024. All are invited for the Opening Reception on Sunday, November 3rd from 2pm-5pm at the Museum. 

As part of the exhibit, HHM will produce an Online Artist Talk with Raymond Smith and HHM Director Bob Foster on Friday, November 1st at 7pm, which will be livestreamed on YouTube and Facebook.

A special thank you to the Hudson County Office of Cultural & Heritage Affairs/Tourism Development for supporting this exhibit.