While some siblings would never dream of being in business together, for Amy Walsh and Jaclyn Civins, it’s a gift they cherish. Together, as little girls, they watched their parents work side by side at what is now a Westfield legend: the Evalyn Dunn Gallery
Both can remember even doing their homework in the back of the gallery, and in the process, appreciating how beautiful things touch souls and ignite spirits.
Today, the gallery is a well-known mecca for art, crafts, unique gifts, jewelry and even beautiful clocks and stirrers.
And the Westfield landmark remains faithful to its roots as a place where anything and everything can be artfully framed.
“We’ve framed wedding gowns and a seat from the former Giants Stadium, and all sorts of art and objects that seem to come alive in the right frame,’ Civins said.
Galassi alarm clocks.
Both sisters are delighted to offer framing advice to those who may be unsure. “One thing we always emphasize is that you don’t have to ‘match’ colors or periods or style. The important thing is always to best enhance what’s in the frame,” Walsh said.
The uniqueness of the gallery’s wares is not accidental. The sisters may spot things on their own travels, as was the case with magnificent hand-blown paper-weights from Scotland that make wonderful prized possessions and gifts.
They were the discovery of Civins and her husband on a recent trip to Scotland, and are rarely found in the United States.
What they are generally seeing lately is a shift to the more contemporary, and also an appreciation of the eclectic, not “matchy-matchy.”
The trend toward the bold and contemporary is exemplified by the gallery’s exceptional oil paintings on handsome wooden boxes, some coated with layers of resin for a beautiful glazed finish.
Other wonderful gift items for loved ones — and for oneself — are the folk art paintings by JessicaWaisilewski, whose purity of form and love of Americana are celebrated in her work.
Also available at the gallery are handcrafted pieces of Joya jewelry, originally created by women for women with proceeds always donated to women’s causes around the world.
Jewelry by Joya.
Judaica art, which honors and celebrates Jewish traditions, also are highlights of the Dunn Gallery’s inventory, with ritual items and also deeply meaningful memorial items.
Their parents always emphasized service as the gallery’s hallmark, and that has not changed. These sisters believe because art and objects of beauty deserve time and interest, that is an ironclad tradition at this Westfield gallery, which has been honored four consecutive years for its quality of wares and service as “Best Gallery in New Jersey ” by the National American Art Awards organization.
From pottery to fine jewelry to the unique accessories and art that truly make a home come alive, the Evalyn Dunn Gallery is a loving tribute to their parents, whose legacy they honor.
Mezuzzahs by Joy Stember.
And are there future generations perhaps ready to continue that cherished legacy?
The sisters answer almost in unison:
“That would be nice. Really nice,” they agree.
But as they well know, only the future will tell.
Evalyn Dunn Gallery is located at 549 South Ave., Westfield. Hours: Monday through Saturday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., Sunday and evenings by appointment. Call (908) 232-0412, or visit www.evalyndunngallery.com.
—Sally Friedman
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