Orchids and oldies at the Van Kirk Homestead Museum

The Sparta Historical Society presents “Rita Joyce: Evolution of an Artist” at the Van Kirk Homestead Museum from 1 to 4 p.m. on Sunday, Aug. 8, followed by a performance by Flexible Flyers from 4 to 5:30 p.m.

Rita Joyce, originally from California and now residing in Sparta, is known for her original paintings that capture and reflect shadow and light with a vibrant pallet. Joyce works in oils, watercolors, and mixed media, often enhancing her work with metal leaf, powder, and collage. Her subjects are wildlife, florals, natural forms, and abstracts.

“Sparta is a magical place full of inspiration,” she says. Since moving to Sparta, the autumn and winter seasons have whispered to her and tapped her creative psyche.

Listen to the Golden Oldies, music from 1950s-80s, by Flexible Flyers, featuring Ray Sikora, Walt Super, Ed Lavery, and Bob Marks. These professionals sing harmony and play multiple instruments. Test your knowledge of songs by singing along. (The melodies are embedded deep in your memories...) This performance is totally weather-dependent and has a rain date of Aug. 15.

Museum members will be admitted free. Nonmembers pay $15.

“Evolution of an Artist” will be open on Sunday, Aug. 8, and Sunday, Aug. 22, from 1 to 4 p.m. Funding has been made available in part by the NJ Council of the Arts through the County History Partnership Program, as administered by the Sussex County Arts & Heritage Council.