RIDGEFIELD, CT — The Ridgefield Arts Council voted April 8 to approve its 2026 award recipients, move its web presence to the town’s website, and advance planning for several upcoming cultural events.
The council unanimously approved both its annual Nancy Comstock Andrews Award recipient and its 2026 scholarship winner, though names will be withheld until recipients are formally notified.
Members also voted unanimously to discontinue the council’s standalone website and instead rely on the Town of Ridgefield’s official Arts Council webpage for communications and outreach. The motion included canceling the current site’s renewal in June and shifting updates, including event information and registration links, to the town platform.
Planning continued for several spring and summer events, including the council’s “Behind the Scenes” program, scheduled for May 18 at Keeler Tavern. The Economic and Community Development Commission will provide food and beverages, and participating organizations have been asked to submit award nominees.
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The council also confirmed details for its spring scholarship fundraiser, set for April 23 at The Lantern. Organizers said three artists have donated works for a raffle, and a jazz band has been secured for the event. Marketing efforts, including posters and social media outreach, are underway.
Make Music Day preparations are also progressing, with registration for performers and venues already open and multiple musicians signed up. Council members said the lineup for Ballard Park is taking shape, and efforts are ongoing to secure sponsorships, including funding for a potential tent rental.
The council’s Cultural District subcommittee continues to meet biweekly, with members reviewing proposals from graphic designers to develop branding, including a logo and tagline. Officials said social media promotion will begin once branding decisions are finalized.
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Council members also discussed participation in upcoming community events, including Pride in the Park, where the group plans to host a table.
The council approved its March meeting minutes without opposition and received a treasurer’s update noting that reimbursement requests are expected this month and reminding members to submit expenses before the end of the fiscal year.
A brief update on a proposed town sculpture project was deferred until a future meeting.
The meeting adjourned at 8:13 p.m.
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