This article is sponsored by City Swipes.
Right in the center of downtown Jersey City at 78 Erie Street is a new art studio + gallery boutique, City Swipes. Founded by local artist Carri Degenhardt, the studio provides an immersive art experience using unconventional methods like pouring paint onto a surface and letting the colors mix and flow freely, creating one-of-a-kind pieces of art. From weekly workshops + classes to private events, City Swipes is a go-to space for fun and creativity. Keep reading to find out more about this unique art studio and how to sign up for a class or workshop in Jersey City.
About City Swipes
At City Swipes, fluid art is the studio’s centerpiece, and founder, Carri Degenhardt ensures that this isn’t your typical art studio. After spending 25 years on Wall Street, she decided to change direction completely and dive into the world of fluid art in January of 2024.
The local art studio and gallery boutique is one of the only fluid art studios open to the public in the tri-state area and people come from all over to experience this unique type of creative flair. If you’re new to fluid art, this abstract painting technique uses unconventional methods like pouring paint onto a surface and letting the colors mix and flow freely, creating one-of-a-kind pieces of art.
“We rarely use paintbrushes,” Carri told The Hoboken Girl. We use tools like hairdryers, marbles, spinners, and more. Fluid art by design is when science meets art to create beautiful effects.” This fun yet relaxing way to create art or bring new art pieces into your life is all about the experience and the outcome. Carri has created a welcoming atmosphere for both beginners and seasoned artists with the belief that anyone can create a masterpiece. This local studio has quickly become Jersey City’s go-to space for fun and creativity.
^ Carri Degenhardt, founder of City Swipes
Private Events + Workshops
City Swipes has a variety of private events and workshops available for singles and groups interested in fluid art. And if you’re looking for a fun spot to host your next event, this local studio is top-notch. Whether looking to host a private event or take part in a workshop, City Swipes has a ton of options to choose from.
Private events are a major part of the studio’s features and are a great way to get friends, teams, and groups together to bond and experience the excitement of fluid art. Groups can book a private party for two-and-a-half hours with access to fun features like the famous spin art bike, which Carri promises can make a mean margarita or even ice cream, karaoke, music, and casual shopping in the boutique as well. The space is a BYOB and can accommodate light refreshments. Kids classes are also available where younger groups can create the beloved fluid bear and piggy bank.
Workshops at the Jersey City studio typically meet weekly and allow fluid artist enthusiasts to work on various techniques while also learning new ones. Carri also has an intensive workshop that is six hours long — with lunch included, of course. The space can hold up to 19 people and makes for the ideal date night spot or place to hold a special event. And Carri ensures that prior art experience is not necessary. Guests can use a variety of mediums to express their fluid art hearts.
Gallery + Unique Home Goods
In addition to the private event space, City Swipes features a fluid artwork gallery with original home decor + paintings, hand-made accessories + apparel, sustainable jewelry, and artist-crafted footwear. Carri enjoys the boutique and gallery space as much as the workshops and private events as it allows her to connect with so many people from all different walks of life.
“It’s much more colorful than Wall Street was. In a good way,” Carri shared. Being able to be a professional artist is really fun as well.” Comments like ‘your art is dope’ and ‘your art makes me feel happy’ are the icing on top of the cake for Carri.
The fluid art industry has taken off in recent years. Many of us have seen the viral videos on TikTok and Instagram showing how these incredible pieces of art are created. Original pieces of art + home decor items created by Carri and her dedicated team are also available for purchase in the gallery boutique.
Don’t forget to mention ‘Hoboken Girl’ to receive 20% off your first purchase.
City Swipes is located at 78 Erie Street in Jersey City. Call 1-855-FLOWART or visit the site for more info and to sign up for a call or workshop.