Stuart Country Day School of the Sacred Heart in Princeton presents its winter gallery exhibition, “Unwavering Grace,” from Saturday, January 18, through Saturday, February 15. An opening reception takes place on January 18 from 2:30 to 4 p.m.
The exhibit features the work of artist and 1996 Stuart alumna Mari Keeler Cornwell, whose evocative acrylic paintings that celebrate the strength, resilience, and unique stories of women from diverse backgrounds.
“Mari’s show exemplifies Stuart’s commitment to fostering creativity and empowering voices through art,” said Andres Duque, director of Stuart’s Considine Gallery. “Her work not only highlights her artistic mastery but also reflects the powerful influence of the women who have inspired her life and career.”
Keeler was born in Caracas, Venezuela, but moved to Princeton with her family in 1989, where she attended Stuart. She earned a bachelor of fine arts from Laguna College of Art and Design and initially worked in advertising in addition to creating her own art on the side. She is a now a full-time professional artist and educator.
The exhibit highlights Cornwell’s portraits of remarkable women, including Moniza, pictured at right, a human rights lawyer from Karachi, Pakistan, who defied traditional norms to advocate for Afghan refugees, and Mary, her paternal grandmother, who became Venezuela’s first female aviator and a symbol of independence and determination.
“These paintings are a tribute to the strength of women, capturing their unique stories and resilience,” Keeler said. “My own journey — from growing up in Venezuela to becoming an artist in the U.S.—mirrors the boldness I try to express on canvas.”
The gallery is open to the public Mondays through Fridays from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. when school is in session. A portion of the proceeds from select works will support causes that align with the artist’s mission of empowerment. The school is located at 1200 Stuart Road, Princeton.
More information: www.stuartschool.org.
Mari Keeler Cornwell's 'Moniza.',
