Newtown Arts Commission Reviews Upcoming Concerts, Exhibits And Board Vacancy

NEWTOWN, CT — The Newtown Cultural Arts Commission reviewed upcoming cultural programming, approved prior meeting minutes and discussed ongoing arts initiatives during its Jan. 8 meeting at the Newtown Community Center.

Chair Laura E. Lerman called the meeting to order at 7:02 p.m. Commissioners unanimously approved the minutes from the Nov. 6 meeting.

Commission members announced the resignation of Jessica Gudonis in December, creating a vacancy open to a Republican or unaffiliated voter. Applications were due Jan. 9.

The commission confirmed the Danbury Community Band will return to Newtown for a concert at the Congregational Church on March 15. Members also reported that Newtown’s Poet Laureate Lauren Clifford has begun research visits to New England communities as part of preparations for the nation’s 250th anniversary.

Treasurer reports showed the commission holding $38,798.89 in its savings account, $8,255.04 in the general fund, and $148,905.99 in its Janney Montgomery Scott investment account. PayPal balances for both the Arts Commission and Arts Festival accounts were reported at zero.

Updates were also provided on the “Doors of Fairfield Hills” project. Roof repairs are underway on duplex buildings, with broader construction expected to begin in late spring or early summer. Once construction begins, the historic doors will be removed and transported to the EverWonder Children's Museum.

Planning for the Newtown Arts Festival continued, with a workshop scheduled to follow the meeting.

Commissioners reported strong participation in Community Center programming. The winter session has begun, and the recent Sip and Shop event was described as a success. The indoor market currently features 25 artisan vendors.

At the Senior Center, a third artist is currently featured in the showcase. Commissioners discussed potential artists for the next exhibit, including senior artists and possible displays of quilts produced in the quilting room.

The commission also reviewed the municipal gallery and showcase schedule. The Society of Creative Arts of Newtown will be on display through March 20, followed by a K-12 student art show from March 30 through April 8, with setup by art teachers scheduled March 23–27. Additional exhibits include Potters in the Showcase and a gallery exhibition by Michelle Rosenthal and collaborators, both running April 13 through May 30.

During public participation, resident Michelle Szabo inquired about available art studio space in town. Commissioners discussed options and offered suggestions for further exploration.

In other business, commissioners noted that the arts scholarship application has been submitted to the Newtown High School career center.

The meeting adjourned at 7:23 p.m.