2nd Annual Artistic Visions Challenge Open House Event Scheduled In Fairfield

News release from the Fairfield Arts Commission:

FAIRFIELD, CT — The Fairfield Arts Commission invites all artists to participate in its second annual Artistic Visions Challenge and to attend a free open house event on Thursday, January 15th, at FTC’s Warehouse, to learn more and to brainstorm ideas with fellow artists and creatives.

The Artistic Visions Challenge is a town-wide juried art competition aimed at encouraging artists to create art in new and unique ways. The competition is open to everyone within two age groups, 10-19 and 20 plus, that either work, reside or attend school in Fairfield. Artists in each age group will compete for a first prize of $1,000.

The theme of this year’s Challenge, which was unveiled at the December 4th Kick-Off event, is to create a work of art that makes a statement about the nation’s 250th anniversary. Artists are tasked with bridging America’s past and present in interpretative ways to address this theme. Additionally, participants are required to create art that not only reflects the given theme, but also must have at least one collaborative element from the other age group and incorporate “America’s 250th” and at least one “Easter Egg”—a hidden message or reference to Fairfield.

Those interested in taking part in the Challenge are encouraged to attend a free open house, the “Collaboration Station”, on Thursday, January 15th, from 6-8PM in the Warehouse at the Fairfield Theatre Company. Attendees will have an opportunity to ask questions about this year’s challenge as well as meet and brainstorm ideas with fellow artists in a variety of disciplines. Refreshments will be provided. The event is free to attend, though advance registration is requested. All participants are asked to indicate their attendance plans by registering here.

“Artistic growth thrives in the exchange of fresh perspectives and seasoned wisdom. When young and experienced artists collaborate, they create a dynamic space where creativity knows no age, and learning becomes a shared journey of innovation and discovery,” said Commissioner Sam Goldstein of the Fairfield Arts Commission, who conceived the Challenge. He continues, “Thinking critically and with originality, empowers a person... it can help them navigate challenges, ask meaningful questions, and make better decisions.”

Eligibility & Entry Details:

Open to student artists, ages 10-19 as well as adults (ages 20+) who either work, reside or attend school in Fairfield.

• Entries are divided into two age categories: 10-19 and 20+. Participants may also work in teams within their age group of up to three people.

• All participants must register by January 31st. Participants under age 18 must have a parental or guardian co-sign as project supervisor to oversee and support the process.

• Participants must attend one of two planned collaboration station events and incorporate a collaborative element from the other age group.

• Participants will be required to include an artist statement as part of their final submission to describe their artwork and the process by which it was made as well as a digital representation of the final submission for public viewing. The statement must include details as to the collaborative element.

• All entries must be submitted by March 14, 2026.

The Commission encourages participants to push their creative limits, whether through a unique technique or by a mash-up of traditional art forms to create something new. A quick overview of the rules and guidelines can be found here.

The Fairfield Arts Commission gratefully acknowledges the continued support of the Connecticut Department of Community & Economic Development, Office of the Arts, in its work. Individuals or businesses that have a passion for the arts and may be interested in sponsorship opportunities should contact the Fairfield Arts Commission at (203) 256-3120 or arts@fairfieldct.org for more information.

About the Fairfield Arts Commission

The Fairfield Arts Commission is an official body of the Town of Fairfield, comprised of nine volunteers appointed by the First Selectman. The purpose of the Fairfield Arts Commission is to stimulate, foster, facilitate and encourage the development and appreciation of artistic and cultural activities within the Town of Fairfield. Following their appointment, the members applied for and received statewide recognition of Fairfield’s first cultural district in June of 2025.