Painting, like many forms of artistic expression, is something of a miracle drug for a lot of people.

Not only does it help build self-esteem and confidence, but painting is also a source of relaxation. And for Fair Lawn resident and professional artist Geula Vardi, painting also provides something else, something much more personal: It allows her to connect with her own unique cultural heritage.

Vardi, who has managed her own art studio for more than a decade and has also taught classes for children, adults and seniors at the Fair Lawn Community Center, immortalizes her Yemenite heritage into meticulously done, unique works of art.

Using Yemenite women as her guide, Vardi captures the essence of her people in a variety of ways. By exploring her roots–an interest that was sparked after the death of her mother–Vardi has found a well of emotions that has become the inner core of her paintings.

September 21 is the second day of an open house in Vardi's home, 19-02 Hopper Ave. One session, for ages 12 to 16, will be held from 4:30 to 5:30 p.m., and the other session, for ages 17 through adult, will be held from 6 to 7 p.m. Schedules for Vardi's upcoming 2010-2011 art classes will also be provided at the open house, and registration will also be available for the same.

Inside her home, nearly every inch of wall space is decorated with Geula's original works of art.

"I think about the value of life," she said, pointing to one particular painting depicting a young Yemenite girl wearing a head covering. "[In Yemen] you cannot interrupt with culture or tradition."

"If you take this away," she said, pointing to the girl's head covering, "she is in danger of her life."

Geula once used oil paints but has since switched to acrylics.

"I don't have the hours to sit and use oil paints," she said. "The time [it takes to] wash [the brushes]–and the smell! Acrylics are really very nice to work with. And I accomplish a lot with them."

In addition to acrylic paintings, Geula also creates intricate drawings using pen and ink, often using her computer to make several reprints of a drawing. She then gives each one a different look by incorporating paint, plastic jewels, glitter, and even bits of potpourri to make them three-dimensional.

You can learn more about Geula Vardi's artwork by calling 201-993-6076 or e-mailing her at geula.vardi@gmail.com.