Newtown Cultural Arts Commission Prepares 2026 Arts Festival, Preserves 'Doors of Fairfield Hills'

NEWTOWN, CT — The Newtown Cultural Arts Commission on Oct. 2 discussed plans for next year’s Newtown Arts Festival, efforts to preserve public art from Fairfield Hills, and upcoming exhibits at the Municipal Center Gallery.

The meeting, held at the Newtown Community Center and chaired by Laura E. Lerman, was called to order at 7:01 p.m., and opened with the unanimous approval of the September minutes.

“Doors of Fairfield Hills” To Be Exhibited

Commissioners addressed concerns about the fate of the "Doors of Fairfield Hills" project — eight artist-painted plywood panels attached to duplex doors on Washington Square.

Lerman said that as the buildings undergo roof replacements, the commission wanted to ensure the artworks were protected. Project organizer Paula Brinkman confirmed that the doors belong to the artists and that the panels will be removed and placed on loan to Everwonder Children’s Museum for exhibition.

2026 Newtown Arts Festival Dates Set

The commission confirmed that the 2026 Newtown Arts Festival will be held Sept. 18–20, with both the Soccer Field and Homestead Field reserved as possible venues, depending on construction near the soccer complex.

A festival wrap-up meeting for the 2025 event is scheduled for Oct. 9.

Gallery and Community Events

In the Municipal Gallery, artist Brad Stanton will exhibit throughout October, with a reception planned for Sunday, Oct. 5. Wendy Deveraux’s animal portraits continue in the showcase through the month, followed by the Flagpole Photographers and Newtown Potters in November and December.

Community Center representative Jen Cebry reported that “Designer Bag Bingo” and “Sip and Shop” are also upcoming on the center’s calendar.

Senior Center Exhibit and Outreach

Commission member Sharman Wheatley announced a new art showcase at the Newtown Senior Center, a project she initiated and leads. Lerman offered to submit a press release to The Newtown Bee highlighting the exhibit.

Resident Michelle Sabuo attended the meeting to learn more about the commission’s ongoing work.

The meeting adjourned at 7:22 p.m. and will reconvene at the next regularly scheduled session.