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Inspirations: A Global Cascade of Influence
April 19th – August 30th, 2026
Inspirations: A Global Cascade of Influence — From Old Souvenirs to New Voices, is a landmark collaboration with the ÀNI Art Academies. This international exhibition unites works from ÀNI artists across five countries, each created as a personal reflection on what inspires them to create.
The John F. Peto Studio Museum is proud to present Inspirations: A Global Cascade of Influence — From Old Souvenirs to New Voices, a landmark collaboration with the ÀNI Art Academies. This international exhibition unites works from ÀNI artists across five countries, each created as a personal reflection on what inspires them to create.
“Inspirations” is a curated exhibition featuring select works by artists of the ÀNI Art Academies, created in celebration of the enduring impact of artistic influence. Showcasing a wide range of perspectives, subjects, and styles, each piece in the exhibition reflects the artist’s personal dialogue with the vision, techniques, and philosophies of those who came before them. Through homage, reinterpretation, and thematic exploration, the works honor the masters of the past while embracing contemporary approaches. Together, they highlight the rich interplay between tradition and innovation, and the timeless thread that connects generations of artists. Inspirations invites viewers to witness how legacy becomes a living force, shaping new voices and creative journeys across time.
John F. Peto Studio Museum
102 Cedar Ave. | Island Heights, NJ 08732 Z
Sunday, April 19, 2026 – Sunday, August 30, 2026
2026 Winter Exhibition Peto’s Permanent Collection
This winter, step into the historic home of artist John F. Peto and embark on an inspiring docent-led tour of the Museum’s permanent collection of his original paintings. Experience the magic of Peto’s studio, preserved just as it was during his artistic journey from 1880 until his passing in 1907.
John F. Peto Studio Museum
Monday, January 5 – Friday, April 3, 2026
Please note that our winter exhibit will be by appointment only. To schedule a guided tour, please call 732.929.4949.
UPCOMING EVENTS
Poetry at the Peto
Sunday, February 8, 2026 | 2:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m.
Open Mic. Open to Everyone.
Read your own poetry or someone’s you love
Artful Novels Book Club
Wednesday, March 25, 2026 | 6:30 – 8:00 p.m.
We will be exploring,
Mona’s Eyes by Thomas Schlesser &
What I Loved by Siri Hustvedt
PETO PRESENTS
Cattus Island presents: The Biology of Bats
Thursday, March 26, 2026 | 7:00 p.m. – 8:30 p.m.
Learn about the life of these mysterious creatures, as well as threats to their existence.
SAVE THE DATE
2026 PETO CUP
Fundraiser, Regatta, and Celebration
Friday, August 7, 2026 | 5:30 p.m. – 9:30 p.m.
Toms River Yacht Club
1464 Riviera Ave. | Toms River, NJ 08753
Meet Peto’s Essential Personnel
A Series of Profiles
Getting to Know You – Larissa S. – Docent
5 Fun(ish) Facts:
- I have 2 rescue dogs, Rambo and Jack. Sorry if you have been a victim of their shrieking.
- I was raised in northern New Jersey and despite currently living by the shore, I am still very much a mountain person.
- I love to make things. I make my own beeswax candles. I love crafting and have dabbled in (and definitely NOT mastered) drawing, sewing, embroidery, flower drying/pressing, decorative painting, etc, etc.
- I went to culinary school and was a professional baker for a few years. I found that I love everything about food and cooking except for the industry!
- Foraging for food and medicinal plants is a great interest of mine and I learn more and more each year.
5 Questions to Answer (I could only do 4):
Looking back on your life, who or what makes you instantly light up? The memory of singing with my Grandpa as a little kid makes me instantly light up. He couldn’t carry a tune if it had handles, but he had an unrivaled love of music. We would belt in the car, hum while doing yardwork, sing on the walk to my elementary school. Everything was musical with him.
What brings you joy? All of the pleasant, mundane moments that happen constantly throughout my life bring me joy. I love that I can watch my dogs lie in the sunshine, and hear the sound of geese eating grass. I’m also always grateful when I happen upon an event with free food.
What super-power would you most want? If I could have any superpower, I would choose the ability to teleport. I would be able to go anywhere for free and instantly! As a chronically tardy person, this would be fantastic. I could also visit my family without having to drive 2-3 hours (unless I want to), and I would never have to get on a plane again!
How would you spend your winnings if you won the NJ Lottery? If I won the NJ Lottery, I would get my mom into retirement. After that, I would open a sanctuary for dogs.
Click the icon below to find more information about Museum accessibility.
The John F. Peto Studio Museum received funding this year from a grant administered by the Ocean County Cultural & Heritage Commission from funds granted by the New Jersey State Council on the Arts and the New Jersey Historical Commission, a division of the Department of State.
The John F. Peto Studio Museum is a federally chartered 501(c)(3) not-for-profit charity that relies on the generous philanthropic support of its members, donors, and partners. All donations are tax-deductible to the fullest extent allowed by law.