In June of 2024, zebra stripes appeared on the exterior of 304 Newark Avenue, followed by an array of colorful bubble letters grabbing the attention of locals. This artwork by Paws21 Art would soon be the storefront of Jersey City’s newest community-based art gallery, Dirty Hippie Studio; a funky space for funky people. If disco balls, lava lamps, bright colors, and a touch of 70s flare are your cup of tea, a visit to Dirty Hippie may just be your next creative escape. Read on for more about Dirty Hippie Studio in Jersey City, New Jersey.
How It Started
India Joseph aka Foxy Green (her art alias) opened Dirty Hippie Studio on June 26th, 2024 right next door to local favorite, Cranky Angel, which is owned by her bestie Montana Fucci. Together they are bringing a major dose of inspiration and play to the heart of Jersey City. Foxy said that after Montana opened Cranky Angel it “paved the way and pushed me to pursue this dream”. Now, the two friends run their businesses alongside each other and come together to host several community events rooted in art, fashion, and creative self-expression. “I feel like I’m living my childhood dream”, she told The Hoboken Girl.
As a young girl, Foxy had a calling and a natural talent for art. Ever since she can remember, the idea of picking up a pencil or a paintbrush always led to creating something. Foxy has lived in Jersey City since 2013, and attended Dickinson High School while simultaneously participating in the Visual Performing Arts Program at Snyder High School. It was there that Foxy met teacher Jessica Ward who she credits as a huge inspiration in her life. Foxy told us that this moment was pivotal and helped her hone in on her skills. She said, “I remember she taught us how to draw ourselves and create self-portraits. I was really learning this all for the first time. This was more than just arts and crafts”.
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As the years went on, Foxy continued to tap into her creativity. She worked in the vintage scene and always had a fascination for collecting second-hand items which ultimately created a spark in her entrepreneurial spirit. During the pandemic, she began collecting vintage charms and pendants and upcycling them into new jewelry designs. She began to sell her jewelry, vintage finds, and artwork online and soon realized that she had the opportunity to reach more people, and on her own terms. It was then that Dirty Hippie Studio was born and became a collective space for local artists to showcase their talents.
Foxy told HG, “Dirty Hippie is an essence of who I am as a creative. I’ve always wanted to pursue my art in different forms. Growing up I always had so many ideas but was nervous to put myself out there the way I wanted to. I never found spaces that made me feel comfortable and welcome and it held me back when I was younger. So instead of finding more opportunities… I decided to create it and open up this communal art space. It’s not just a gallery. Here artists have a space to feel comfortable and get their voices out there. I will always choose community over everything else”.
About The Space
The exterior of Dirty Hippie Studio alone is enough to catch your eye, but stepping inside feels like a passage in time, instantly transporting patrons to a funkier time. It’s no surprise to learn that Foxy says she feels like she was born in the wrong era and growing up listening to ABBA, Fleetwood Mac, and Earth Wind and Fire definitely had something to do with it. “I’ve always felt like an old soul and it just was natural to do it this way”, she said.
In the back of Dirty Hippie Studio is the private art gallery used to showcase artists’ work during monthly showcase events, but there are many treasures to explore inside Dirty Hippie. The studio also sells affordable art supplies, consigned artwork, used books, and other handmade accessories from local vendors, including designs by Foxy.
Future Showcases + Getting In Touch
Coming up, the space will host the “Foxy Green Birthday Showcase” from August 23rd to August 25th, which will be a special self-curated gallery by Foxy herself. This is a great chance for locals to come meet the woman behind the magic of Dirty Hippie. Following will be a second showcase titled “Virgos Rule” from August 30th to September 1st. This showcase provides an opportunity for artists of all forms to showcase their work. Whether it’s performance art, graphic design, photography, illustrators, and beyond, Foxy emphasizes that all are welcome at Dirty Hippie and that it will always be a safe space for all who pass through the doors.
One of HG’s freelance contributors (and the author of this article), Via, recently participated in Dirty Hippie Studio’s “Boogie Wonderland” showcase, where she was able to show off her collage art made from recycled newspapers. For this showcase, Via created a special zodiac collection.
^ Via’s artwork at Dirty Hippie Studio. Photo Credit: @girlsgotchops
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Dirty Hippie Studio is open Wednesday through Saturday from 2PM to 8PM, ready to welcome patrons. For updates and showcase announcements, be sure to follow @dirtyhippiestudio on Instagram. To inquire about submitting for a future showcase or to consign artwork, jewelry, or other works, DM @dirtyhippiestudio or email [email protected].
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