Museum Gallery Wonder

Welcome to the magical world of art.

Welcome to a magical world filled with art, masterpieces, and extraordinary collections. We showcase, loan, and curate whimsical artworks pieces that capture humor, imagination, playfulness, and a touch of irony.

At its best, whimsical art sparks a smile, a laugh, or a sense of lighthearted delight. It invites you to enjoy it just as it is simple, expressive, and wonderfully entertaining.

Whimsical art rarely has deep underlying philosophical statements and no serious, solemn, religious, or metaphysical meanings.

Plan Your Visit Explore the Collection

About Us

The Museum of Whimsical Art

The Museum of Whimsical Art celebrates the meeting of classical elegance and imaginative delight. Our spaces are designed to inspire curiosity, reflection, and wonder through exhibitions that blend beauty, playfulness, and storytelling.

From grand architectural interiors to intimate curated salons, the museum invites guests of all ages to explore collections that feel timeless, theatrical, and joyfully unexpected.

Mission Statement

The mission of the Museum of Whimsical Art (MoWA) is to collect, preserve, and display whimsical art and to inspire would-be artists to engage in artistic whimsy.

Museum interior with classical art displays

Featured Artist Bio

Jeffrey Denholtz

“When a viewer smiles or chuckles at his art, Jeff feels delightfully affirmed.”

Jeffrey Denholtz, a resident of Mount Olive Township, New Jersey, completed his first oil painting in first grade. The principal at Mount Pleasant Elementary School in Livingston, NJ liked it so much that he hung it in his office. Since then, he has been painting as a self-taught artist following in his father’s (Melvin Denholtz) footsteps who often created whimsical art. Jeff enjoys creating whimsical art too. Whimsical art expresses humor and light hearted images. In his early days, Jeff was influenced by surrealists, Salvador Dali and Rene Magritte. Later he became more influenced by pop artists, Andy Warhol, Roy Lichtenstein, Tom Wesselmann and others.

Today, Jeff’s art work is uniquely his own style characterized by 3D protrusions attached to his canvases. The 3D component usually imparts humor. When a viewer smiles or chuckles at his art, Jeff feels delightfully affirmed. Jeff believes that much art produced within the professional art world has become stuffy, pretentious, complicated, and frequently not relatable to many art viewers. Whimsical art images, on the other hand, are immediately clear and understandable.

Leadership

Board of Directors

Jeff Denholtz

Jeff Denholtz, Budd Lake resident, artist, and Executive Director, is the visionary behind the Museum of Whimsical Art. As a self-taught painter inspired by surrealist and pop art traditions, Jeff has developed a distinctive style known for its playful 3D elements and humorous expression.

His work reflects a lifelong passion for creativity, rooted in early artistic exploration and influenced by masters such as Salvador Dalí, René Magritte, Andy Warhol, and Roy Lichtenstein. Through both his artwork and leadership, Jeff brings a spirit of imagination and accessibility to the museum experience.

Richard Reiss

Richard Reiss, West Orange resident, art collector, and connoisseur, brings a deep appreciation for fine art and cultural preservation to the Museum of Whimsical Art. His extensive experience in collecting and evaluating artwork contributes valuable insight into the museum’s curatorial direction.

With a passion for both classical and contemporary works, Richard supports the museum’s mission by helping shape a collection that is both meaningful and accessible to a wide audience.

Lloyd Leone

Lloyd Leone, Flanders resident, is an active board member of several non-profit organizations and brings a strong commitment to community service to the Museum of Whimsical Art. His experience in governance and organizational development supports the museum’s growth and sustainability.

Lloyd’s dedication to community engagement helps ensure that the museum remains a welcoming and impactful cultural resource for visitors of all backgrounds.

Don Fast

Don Fast, Roxbury resident and entrepreneur, contributes a dynamic perspective to the Museum of Whimsical Art through his business experience and leadership. As a board member of other non-profit organizations, he brings valuable insight into strategic planning and operational success.

Don’s forward-thinking approach supports the museum’s mission to expand its reach while maintaining a strong connection to the local community.

Cheryl Blakut

Cheryl Blakut, Roxbury resident, serves as an art liaison with local school boards and is an advisor to the Executive Director. Her work helps connect the museum with educational institutions, fostering opportunities for students to engage with art in meaningful ways.

Cheryl’s dedication to arts education and community outreach plays a vital role in expanding the museum’s impact and inspiring the next generation of artists and art enthusiasts.

Dawn Loria-Tiene

Add Dawn Loria-Tiene board biography here.

Gallery

Explore More Whimsical Works

Browse the collection and click any image to view it full screen.

Testimonials

What Visitors Are Saying

“A magical and welcoming space. Every room feels full of wonder and imagination.”

— Museum Visitor

“The Art Lab was inspiring, creative, and beautifully presented. We loved every minute.”

— Program Guest

“A truly unique experience. The playful artwork and thoughtful atmosphere make it unforgettable.”

— Gallery Attendee

“Beautifully curated and full of charm. The museum feels elegant but never intimidating.”

— First-Time Visitor

“Such a creative destination for families and art lovers alike. We cannot wait to return.”

— Local Guest

“A magical and welcoming space. Every room feels full of wonder and imagination.”

— Museum Visitor

“The Art Lab was inspiring, creative, and beautifully presented. We loved every minute.”

— Program Guest

“A truly unique experience. The playful artwork and thoughtful atmosphere make it unforgettable.”

— Gallery Attendee

“Beautifully curated and full of charm. The museum feels elegant but never intimidating.”

— First-Time Visitor

“Such a creative destination for families and art lovers alike. We cannot wait to return.”

— Local Guest

Plan Your Visit or Send a Message

Wed love to hear from you. Reach out for general inquiries, group visits, memberships, student programs, or special events.