Today we’d like to introduce you to Megan Uhaze

Hi Megan, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?

Sure. After graduating Highschool I decided to pursue an art degree. I started at the local community college in the art department and after two years I transfered to Moore College of Art and Design in Philadelphia. There I pursued a double Major in Art history and Painting. I graduated at a tough time for the economy in 2009 but was lucky enough that when I moved back home to New Jersey I saw an add for an artist wanted in a local news paper. I applied for the job and got it! I started working at the esteemed Johnson Atelier in October of 2009 and the rest is history. I have now been an artist (painter, art restorer and patinist) for the company for 15 years. In 2020 I was made the co head of the finishing department and I oversee all restoration projects and any projects dealing with classical patina. I really enjoy working with artists to help them achieve their vision, mentoring students and interns who are starting out in the art field, and helping galleries and museums and private clients maintain their collections.

Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?

I’m lucky that the road as not been to hard. Graduating college and wondering what you will now do with an art degree is daunting. the challenges have been perfecting my craft, learning as I go, and from the amazing artists and technicians around me. You only learn so much at school and there is so much more to learn once you are out in the world making and interacting with art and artists everyday. In the field I’m in there are always learning curves and challenges, time constraints, and deadlines. Lost of personalities and opinions. You should be bold and seek certifications, always be learning something new and trying something new.

Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?

As an artist I am mostly a painter and printmaker. I show and sell my work in the tri state area (NJ, PA, NY). I have a studio space at Grounds for Sculpture in NJ that I share with a friend and fellow artist. I have work in three permanent collections, including the Trenton Public Library collection, the Capitol Health Medical Group Collection, and the Mercer County Cultural and Heritage Fund Collection. My work is colorful, graphic and bold, with sharp lines and patterns. My current body of work is focusing on critically endangered species and its something I’ve been working on for a long time.

In my position with the Atelier, I’m a senior painter and the shops current Patinist (someone who does Patina work). I also oversee all restoration projects and onsite work, including the restoration of artist Seward Johnsons work which travels for exhibition. I’ve been sought out recently for patina work as well as help with creating long term care and maintenance plans for outdoor sculpture. I really care about art, and craftsmanship and doing things right. I care deeply about carrying on traditional art methods and skills.

How do you think about happiness?

The number one thing that makes me happy is my beautiful son and amazing husband, they are my world. But my art and being able to make art for a living keeps me motivated day after day and bring me true joy. I find the restoration projects the most special, nothing feels better then knowing you helped preserve a work of art for generations to come.

Contact Info:

• Facebook: @meganuhazeartwork
• Other: instagram account @muhazeartwork

Image Credits

sculpture being worked on in personal photo is a sculpture by Andrzej Pityński
Polish sculptor.