Third-Space Danbury Initiative
Call For Artists
The Cultural Alliance of Western Connecticut and Third-Space Danbury are inviting artists or artist teams to submit proposals for designing and installing a large outdoor mural at Rogers Park in Danbury, CT. This mural will be the first in a series of public art installations aimed at fostering connection and social cohesion throughout the city.
THEME: Roots and Wings: A Celebration of Community
In the heart of Danbury, where roots intertwine and wings take flight, we envision a mural that embodies the vibrant tapestry of our community. This artwork will celebrate our cultural diversity, showcasing the myriads of languages, traditions, and stories that shape our identity. It will illuminate the connections we forge with one another, capturing the joyous moments shared by children and families—scenes filled with laughter, learning, and communal gatherings.
Artist Stipend
Not to exceed $4,500 for approximately a 20’x8′ outdoor mural.
Sponsored by
Funding provided by
Join Us for Third Space Danbury Volunteer Days!
We’re excited to invite you to join us for two upcoming Third Space Danbury volunteer days on Saturday, May 3rd and Saturday, May 10th, from 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM at Veterans Hall in Rogers Park, Danbury.
We’ll be working together to prepare the site for our new garden, plant larger plants and over 500 native plugs, install fencing, set up the new Little Library, and more. These events are a great opportunity to connect with fellow community members and make a tangible difference in our shared spaces. Please note that events are weather-dependent, so follow Third Space Danbury on Facebook for real-time updates. If we need to cancel due to inclement weather, we’ll also send an email blast to this group.
Sign up to volunteer here: Volunteer Sign-Up Form.
We can’t wait to build something beautiful together. Thank you for being part of this special project!
Transforming Community Spaces
The journey began on November 2, 2024, at Rogers Park, where over 50 community members gathered for the “Mountainville Community Connect” event. Enthusiastic attendees learned about the vision of creating dynamic community hubs.
On January 2nd, a well-attended workshop gathered feedback, highlighting desires for interactive elements like chess tables, musical sculptures, rock gardens, and community events. Suggestions included water features, amphitheaters, and food elements to enhance the experience.
Emphasizing cultural connections, the community proposed diverse celebrations and activities, celebrating Danbury’s rich immigrant heritage. Locations like Richter House, Hatters Park, and Terrywile Mansion were suggested for these ideas.
The vision for Third-Space Danbury includes green spaces, walking communities, arts education, music hubs, and spaces for young people, aiming to enhance quality of life and foster a strong sense of community.
Bringing people together creatively.
What is Third-Space Danbury?
The concept of a “Third Space” is rooted in the idea of providing a communal area for regular, low-pressure interactions that build trust and community ties. In today’s fast-paced world, these spaces are essential for bridging diverse backgrounds and fostering meaningful relationships.
Project Vision
The vision is to develop a vibrant hub where residents can participate in programs, engage in informal interactions, and build community ties. The initial project will be piloted in the Fifth Ward, starting with Rogers Park – near Mountainville Rd. The initiative plans to expand throughout the city, creating multiple Third Spaces in various neighborhoods.
Background
The Third-Space Danbury initiative emerged from a SHIFT workshop series offered by the Cultural Alliance in January 2024, funded by the CT Office of the Arts. Twenty-five individuals from various backgrounds collaborated to design impactful arts-based projects on a modest budget. The Third Space initiative emerged with the goal of combating isolation and fostering community spirit in neighborhoods. The SHIFT cohort is coordinating the project and being led by Ryan Hawley, Andrea Gartner, Clementina Lunar, and Brailyn Rodriguez. The concept of a “Third Space” is rooted in the idea of providing a communal area for regular, low-pressure interactions that build trust and community ties. In today’s fast-paced world, these spaces are essential for bridging diverse backgrounds and fostering meaningful relationships.