MAJU Brings New Life To Shelter Island
Enter Jude Amsel—artist, teacher, and the kind of person who sees opportunity where others might see an empty storefront. This past Spring, Jude opened MAJU Art Gallery Lifestyle Store. It provides a creative space of discovery, art, and education that has quickly become one of Shelter Island’s most exciting new additions. “It wasn’t part of the plan,” Jude said with a laugh, seated in the sunlit gallery, surrounded by work from both local and internationally known artists. “I was just looking for a place to teach ceramics.”
She refers to her long-running summer classes, which took place in a historic barn part of the Shelter Island History Museum—until that space suddenly became unavailable. Jude faced the very real possibility of having to cancel classes for more than sixty students, many of whom had been her students for years.
Then it happened: what was once a beloved space called “Jacks” made both Jude and business partner Marie Eiffel inspired! That’s how MAJU was born—a space that now hums with new energy!
MAJU: A Life in Art
MAJU—a name that combines “Marie” and “Jude,” but also seems to stand for something more. It’s not just a gallery. It’s a ceramics studio, a shop, and a gathering place. A place for students to get creative. A place where established artists share wall space with emerging artists. “I had someone come in the other day, see the space, who commented. “This space is what the community needed!” That’s the perfect compliment.”
Jude isn’t new to this. She’s been working in the arts for decades as a printmaker, glass artist, and teacher. Her work has appeared in public collections and museums, including a 9/11 permanent memorial sculpture for the NYC Fire Museum honoring the 343 firefighters who lost their lives.
Creative Roots + Island Soul
ong before MAJU, she was one of the founding members of a nonprofit arts center in Great Neck, Long Island, where she started and headed the ceramics department. Jude was also the gallery director, hosting thousands of visitors, school groups, and community outreach programs. “I’ve kept every thank-you note,” she admitted. “They remind me why I do this. Art saved me during challenging times, and I know it’s helped others, too.”
Her classes, for both children and adults, have a reputation for being fun and welcoming. There is no judgment, no pressure. Just the joy of making something with your hands. “One little boy in my class told another, ‘Don’t worry, you can’t make a mistake in Jude’s class,’” she said, smiling. “That about sums it up.”
Reinvention is the Secret
When Jude’s daughter heard about the new gallery, she teased, “Wait. I thought you were retiring!” Jude laughed. “I guess I’m not done yet. Reinvention is the secret.”
Her spirit is woven into every corner of MAJU. The walls feature a rotating collection of work—everything from contemporary abstraction to whimsical ceramics. One room is dedicated to hands-on classes. Marie Eiffel has flawless taste when it comes to fashion, down to the smallest detail of accessories." It’s a gallery, yes—but it also feels like someone’s very cool, very creative living room.
The community has embraced it. The opening weekend in May brought a steady stream of visitors, many of them curious to see how the old space had transformed. It was so well-received and she’s grateful, too.
What's Next for MAJU & Jude
The gallery is fully booked. Ceramics classes for kids and adults, open studio time, special exhibits, and even movement workshops led by Marie. Plans include gallery talks, collaborative art nights, and community gatherings. MAJU isn’t just here to show art—it’s here to make it.
MAJU has already started changing the rhythm of Bridge Street. What was once a vacant storefront now hums with life. At the center of it all is Jude offering encouragement, turning on the kiln, and making space for creativity to thrive. “I don’t know what MAJU will be like five years from now,” she said. “But right now, it feels exactly right.”
Jude Amsel: In Her Own Words
In a world that often demands conformity, Jude Amsel has carved out a life defined by creative freedom. She sees art not just as an expression, but as a connection—a way to make meaning, stir emotions, and build community.
In this intimate conversation, Jude reflects on the inner currents that shape her work and the quiet courage it takes to keep creating. From her early days with a vision, to building a space where others can be seen and heard, it is the story of a woman who continues to make beauty out of raw experience and invites us all to do the same.
When you look back, what moment or decision do you think set this whole journey in motion?
I am a first-generation American, born to immigrant parents who endured the hardships of the Nazi regime during World War II. They arrived in America with a profound appreciation for freedom of expression, a privilege they never took for granted. This background has instilled in me a deep understanding of the power of art as a vital form of expression.
I hail from a family of artists, where creativity was nurtured from early on. Our home was always a canvas of freedom, encouraging each of us to explore and share our artistic inclinations.
Shelter Island has undergone significant changes over the years. What keeps you rooted here?
For the past 18 years, I have called Shelter Island my home after years of commuting from Long Island City. During those years, I had built a vibrant community of students through my home studio and the Historical Museum, and now at MAJU. The island's natural beauty reminds me of my roots in Wisconsin, and the friendly residents contribute to a keen sense of belonging.
How did your partnership with Marie Eiffel come about? What’s it like blending two creative visions into one shared space?
About twelve years ago, I started collaborating with Marie Eiffel. We quickly discovered that our big personalities complemented each other well. As I began curating exhibitions, it became clear that we would be good partners, merging our creative visions. We have profound respect for each other, and a readiness to collaborate. Marie and I realized MAJU could lead to a truly distinctive and meaningful space for the community.
Who are some of the local or emerging artists you’re most excited to highlight at MAJU this year?
One day, it’s a vast painting exploding with vibrant shapes. The next day, it’s an uncanny sculpture crafted from scraps. I appreciate artists who continually evolve, take risks, and engage with their audience. Welcome to a week in the life of MAJU!!
What do you hope people, especially younger artists, carry with them after visiting MAJU?
For people, especially young artists, I hope they feel a visit to MAJU was a transformative experience, carrying with them a range of inspirations and lessons that contribute to their artistic and personal development. I hope it provides them with a richer understanding of art, innovative ideas for their creations, increased confidence, and connections within the art world, all of which contribute to a stronger and more fulfilling artistic path.
The hope is that visitors take away something meaningful and enriching that resonates with them on a personal level, whether it be a new perspective, a heightened sense of connection, or simply the joy and inspiration that art can bring!
