On Feb. 9, 1981, eleven artists met in the Stafford Library, then located at 94 Stafford Ave., Manahawkin, to discuss formation of an art association. Notices were published in five newspapers, and a committee was selected tp draft bylaws and name the organization. In July 33 artists signed on as charter members and installation of officers followed. Three original charter members, Pat Shepherd, Cathy Engelsen and Barbara Martini, remain active. Our first outdoor exhibit was held on the Stafford Township Town Hall grounds in August of the same year.

During that first year PSAA sponsored six art shows and membership soared to 57. Shows were also held at Burlington County Hospital, Mount Holly and Ocean County Malls, and exhibits at local banks were initiated. In February 1883 the first children's drawing class was conducted, the first art trip organized (to the Metropolitan Museum of Art in NYC), the first Ocean County Cultural and Heritage Commission (OCCHC) grant was received (for $225), and the first scholarship (of $200) was awarded to a Soutrn Regional High School student.

In October 1984 the first adult classes were held, and by 1987 membership had reached 92. In 1990, the orgnization, sponsored and supported by Stafford Tiwnship, formally moved to the second floor of 94 Stafford Avenue, where we remain today.