The New Jersey Arts Incubator (NJAI) is best known to area residents for its Incubation Gallery exhibits and its monthly music series at its courtyard studio in the Essex Green Plaza, #16 at 495 Prospect Ave., West Orange. But from its inception, the NJAI has had a mission somewhat less in the general publics' eyes — as a source of technical, marketing, programming and education for arts agencies and artists statewide.

The not-for-profit organization was the brainchild of West Orange's Amy Simon and Joe Gardner. Simon has been its executive director since its inception. She is stepping down from the post in favor of chairing its Board of Directors. Gardner is the new managing director and Carol Berman is the new executive director.

"It has been a thrilling experience, creating and leading NJAI as we serve artists and communities in New Jersey," Simon said. "I am excited to welcome new leadership and new ideas for moving the mission forward, while I focus on keeping our organization stable and inclusive."

Gardner, is best known locally as the education director of NJAI and his developing and directing its summer 2009 hit, "A Midsummer Night's Dream and Festival" in Verona Park.

A theater director, actor and playwright, as well as a television, film and theater producer, Gardner worked on the original "Curious George" television stories. He also is a long-time member of the 12 Miles West Theatre Company, where he is the past literary manager working on the development of new plays, including two of his own.

The new executive director is Livingston's similarly multi-talented Berman, an actress, singer, director and arts educator as well as an experienced professional and educational fine and performing arts manager.

Berman will also continue as the JCC MetroWest's manager of the theater camp, School of the Arts and Gaelen Center. At Gaelen, she oversees the performances at the Maurice Levin Theater, the art galleries and the currently running New Jersey Jewish Film Festival.

Berman spoke enthusiastically about the organization and her new role.

 "I am excited to be part of the New Jersey Arts Incubator and to continue the exceptional work that Amy Simon began for the arts in New Jersey, " Berman said. "If, as Leo Schulemowitz once said, 'Art is the highest form of play,' then Joe and I and the NJAI are grateful to be in the sandbox to stay."

Upcoming programming includes a seminar on life skills for working artists on Wednesday, Oct. 20, and the continuation of the NJAI Music Series. The "Incubation" exhibit continues in the gallery until Saturday, Oct. 30.

The NJAI is developing an arts education program for children between 12 and 36 months of age, with funding assistance from the Thomas and Agnes Carvel Foundation. The class will begin in winter of 2011.