The Cultural Alliance of Western Connecticut is excited to announce the commencement of a comprehensive feasibility study for establishing an Arts Hub in Danbury, following the receipt of a $250,000 planning grant awarded last fall, through DECD and the Community Investment Fund. This initiative, supported by state leaders and the City of Danbury, aims to transform the cultural landscape of our community by creating a vibrant space for artistic expression, community engagement, and cultural development.
Lisa Scails, Executive Director of the Cultural Alliance of Western Connecticut, stated, “This grant is a testament to the importance of the arts in our community. We are excited to embark on this journey with the city of Danbury to create a space where creativity can flourish and bring people together.”
The feasibility study will delve into key areas such as market demand, site selection, operational logistics, and the development of a sustainable business model. This initiative is expected to foster diverse engagement, promote cultural understanding, and contribute to the local economy.
Mayor Roberto Alves commented, “We thank the State DECD and the CIF board for recognizing the importance of expanding Danbury’s vibrancy and inclusivity through the establishment of an Arts Hub. This project will not only enhance Danbury’s cultural offerings but help drive economic growth and bring our diverse population closer together.”
We would like to acknowledge the critical support from our state leaders, especially Senator Julie Kushner and Representative Farley Santos, who were instrumental in us receiving this award. Their unwavering commitment to the arts and cultural development has made this project possible.
Leadership Team
We are proud to introduce our esteemed Leadership Team, whose dedication and expertise will guide this transformative project:
• Eva Marie Duran Paulino – President, Dominican Community Center in Danbury
• Jim Felice – Artist; Musician; Owner, Trailer Box Gallery in Danbury
• Andrea Gartner – City Councilman; Executive Director, The Norwalk River Valley Trail (NRVT)
• Brigid Guertin – Danbury CT City Historian; Executive Director, Danbury Museum & Historical Society
• Wilson Hernandez – Community Activist; Downtown Danbury Business Owner
• Maura Juan – Principal Architect, Partner, Seventy2architects and Downtown Danbury Business Owner
• Julie Kushner – State Senator 24th District
• Anna Llanos – Chairman, CityCenter Board of Commissioner; Downtown Danbury Business Owner
• Cybele Malone – Executive Director of the Aldrich Contemporary Art Museum in Ridgefield, CT
• PJ Prunty – Director of Development for Bright Ravens Development LLC
• Chelen Reyes – President & CEO, Union Savings Bank in Danbury CT
• Farley Santos – Economic and Community Development Advisory, City of Danbury and State Representative of the 109th District
• Lisa Scails – Executive Director, The Cultural Alliance of Western CT
• Daniela Sikora – Artistic Director and Conductor of the Ridgefield Chorale
• Melba Wang – Community Activist and Leader
• Jonathan Winn – Founder and Co-Artistic Director of Thrown Stone Theatre Company in Ridgefield, CT
Project Highlights and Community Impact
The Arts Hub feasibility study will explore the potential for creating a professional arts gallery or performing arts center in Danbury. This new space aims to bring people together, celebrate creativity, and enrich the community. By providing a central and welcoming venue, the Arts Hub will enhance community connections and promote cultural understanding through various artistic activities.
The project is expected to boost the local economy by attracting visitors and generating revenue for nearby businesses. It will also offer a platform for people of all walks of life to share their creative talents and engage with the community. Local artists will benefit from opportunities to showcase their work and collaborate on innovative projects.
The study will look into the best location for the Arts Hub, ensuring it is easily accessible and visible. It will also develop a business model to ensure the center’s long-term success, balancing financial viability with creative expression. This comprehensive approach aims to support the idea of an Arts Center with solid data while enriching Danbury’s cultural landscape and fostering inclusivity.
About the Cultural Alliance of Western Connecticut
The Cultural Alliance of Western Connecticut is dedicated to empowering the professional arts community to grow the economy and enrich people’s lives. By supporting local artists and cultural organizations, the Alliance aims to create a dynamic community where creativity thrives.
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