06/07/2026
One of the reasons I love to live here is the art and music scene. Continue to follow me as I interview and promote the creatives who help shape our towns.
From Cape May to Nicaragua: The Far‑Reaching Impact of Curator Becca Jean
For about a decade, Becca Jean has been a guiding force in the Cape May County arts scene — a curator with an intuitive eye for space, light, and emotional resonance. Her exhibitions, often tucked into unexpected corners of the county, have introduced countless artists to new audiences and transformed ordinary rooms into vibrant creative spaces.
Becca’s love of art is not simply appreciation; it’s devotion. Her nurturing spirit shows up in the way she encourages emerging artists to keep experimenting, keep creating, and keep inviting others into their process. “If I love the piece, it will be in the show,” she says. “The space does not offer limitations.” That philosophy has allowed her to curate boldly, trusting her instincts and the emotional truth of the work.
One of her earliest shows was for the late Lou Riccio at Jessie Creek Winery in 2017 — a memory she holds close. Since then, she has curated exhibitions across Cape May County, including her work with artist Kit Donnelly at the Gallery at Ferry Park in North Cape May, where Jack Wright gave them full creative freedom. For Becca, the most joyful part of curating is “the hanging of the pieces,” the moment when the story of a show finally reveals itself.
A Curator With a Matchmaker’s Instinct
Becca has a rare ability to pair artists with the right space. She sees not just the artwork, but the environment it needs to breathe. Her shows feel intentional, intuitive, and deeply human — a reflection of her belief that good art is the kind that evokes emotion.
Her own journey to Cape May mirrors that emotional pull. She arrived by way of New Orleans, then York, PA, spent summers in Stone Harbor, and eventually settled in North Cape May, where she has become a cornerstone of the local creative community.
Championing Emerging Artists
Becca’s encouragement has helped many artists grow into their voices. She recalls West Cape May artist Tom Pryor, who wasn’t quite ready when she first met him. Later, she saw his work during a studio tour and immediately recognized his readiness. She went on to show him twice at the Gallery at Ferry Park, where his exhibitions were hugely successful.
Today, Becca and Tom serve together on the board of the Seagrove Art Cooperative, alongside Laurel Nuschke, and Justine and Danny Magariel. The cooperative, founded last summer, has already hosted several successful shows. As a nonprofit, all exhibitions support the Cape May Point Arts and Science Center, with a portion of sales helping fund its programs. “The artists have a beautiful space to show in, and the CMPASC benefits too,” Becca says.
A Birthday That Changed Lives
Through local friend Sue Tracey, Becca learned of Las Peñitas, a small Nicaraguan fishing village. Sue, having spent time in the region recognized the needs for the children and their school and began fundraising. One year for her birthday celebration at Nauti Spirits, Becca asked for donations instead of presents to support the arts in the village. From that single event, she raised $1,800, all of which is being used to fund field trips for children. The money is giving them the chance to explore the city of León — visiting cathedrals, touring art museums, and even eating at a restaurant, an experience entirely new for many of them. What began as a simple birthday wish has become a doorway to the wider world for these kids.
A Young Nicaraguan Artist With a Gift
One child in particular from the village came to their attention because he has a remarkable gift. Paublo Jeremais Vasquez Alvarado is completely enthralled with art. When the opportunity arose for him to take lessons with an established local artist — just $20 a month for weekly Saturday classes — some of the birthday funds were used to cover his tuition.
Becca and Sue had an idea to showcase his artwork in the United States to help raise money for his continued art lessons. Working together, Sue hand‑carried select pieces from Las Peñitas to Cape May, carefully packing them in her suitcase and bringing them here herself.
Meanwhile, Becca secured the exhibition space and is excited to hang the artwork. His paintings will be displayed at Art Space in West Cape May, where a silent auction will be held. Every dollar raised will go directly toward supporting his ongoing art education.
It is such a simple thing to fund, yet it is profoundly life‑changing for him and his family. In his village, where many people live on $5 a week, opportunities are scarce. But mural artists are in high demand, and these lessons could open a path to a stable future. The hope is to equip this child with the skills and confidence to build a life shaped by his talent.
A Final Thought
“Creativity needs to be valued.”
Becca says this often — and she lives it. Through her curating, her mentorship, and her commitment to building spaces where art and community can thrive, she continues to shape Cape May County’s creative landscape in ways both seen and unseen.
Her shows evoke emotion, her mentorship builds confidence, and her generosity opens doors — near and far.
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