Ridgefield Arts Council Plans Spring Scholarship Event, Continues Cultural District Work

RIDGEFIELD, CT — The Ridgefield Arts Council on March 4 discussed planning for its annual scholarship fundraiser, preparations for upcoming arts events and continued collaboration with town officials on the Ridgefield Cultural District designation.

The council met at Town Hall with members participating both in person and virtually. Chair Jennifer Dineen called the meeting to order at 7:17 p.m. following a motion by Tracey Bryggman and a second by Anna Ciamporcero.

Scholarship Fundraiser Rescheduled

Council members reported that the Lantern restaurant, initially considered as a venue for the group’s spring scholarship fundraiser, is unavailable on March 26. Alternative dates under consideration are April 16, April 23 and April 30.

The event raises funds for the Ridgefield Arts Council’s annual scholarship. Council members said applicant materials will be distributed to the group ahead of the April meeting, when the scholarship recipient will be selected.

Nancy Comstock Andrews Award

Members also continued planning for the Nancy Comstock Andrews Award, which recognizes contributions to Ridgefield’s arts community. Nominations continue to be submitted, and the council expects to vote on this year’s honoree at its April meeting.

Council members said they are also continuing discussions with the Ridgefield Playhouse about potential space needs for related events.

Cultural District Effort Moves Forward

Council representatives recently attended a meeting led by the town’s Economic and Community Development Commission regarding Ridgefield’s designation as a Cultural District.

A summary of that meeting was shared with council members, and a subcommittee is being formed to continue work on the initiative. Members were encouraged to volunteer to participate.

Upcoming Arts Programs

The council also reviewed progress on several ongoing arts initiatives:

• Our Artists, Our Schools: An event connected to the program was scheduled for the following day.
• Executive & Artistic Director Roundtable: The next gathering will take place March 20 at Founders Hall’s art studio.
• Make Music Day (MMD): Planning is underway, with registration expected to open first for venues and later for performers.

Organizers said Sugar Hollow will help identify bands for this year’s Make Music Day event. Additional funding may be required to hire a sound engineer for performances planned in Ballard Park.

Bach to Rock will handle sound production for events at Town Hall and the Ridgefield Library, council members said.

Banner Program Maintenance

Council members also reported minor maintenance work is needed on some of the town’s arts banners, primarily related to hardware fixes. Otherwise, the program is operating as planned.

Next Steps

The council adjourned the meeting at 8:03 p.m. after a motion by Ciamporcero and a second by Raje Kaur. The next meeting is scheduled for April 8 at 7:15 p.m.