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BRIDGEPORT ART TRAIL NEWSLETTER
Welcome to our Bridgeport Art Trail newsletter, providing a listing of arts and cultural events.
Let March put a little spring in your step with live music, theater, visual arts, and more!
Join fellow artists at The NEST Arts Factory for an artist networking party on Friday, March 11th! Come and exchange ideas, meet your fellow creatives, hang out, eat, and drink, tour the NEST, and enjoy an evening of art and music. Open to all Bridgeport artists!
Comedy and Theatre fans can enjoy improv at The Bijou Theatre and Evita at the Downtown Cabaret Theatre. Plus, special live music events including Ricky Reyes & Novela Sin Tempo At The Bijou Theatre and Musiq Soulchild & Elle Varner live at The Klein.
Save the date for an artists talk for the exhibition “Never Done” on March 24th at City Light’s Gallery’s new temporary location.
March is Women’s History Month and we’re excited to again feature Jane Davila and her work at the NEST Arts Factory. The NEST Arts Factory will also have a “Women in Art” exhibition and Davila will be exhibiting at City Lights Gallery in April.
Details below!
Visit the full calendar of Bridgeport Art listings at the Bridgeport Art Trail Website. |
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VISUAL ART: Bridgeport Artist Networks Party, Open Studios, “Feminius: Women in Art” exhibit opening reception.
March 11th and March 12th
The Nest Arts Factory
1720 Fairfield Avenue
Bridgeport, CT 06605
Artists Networking Party
Friday, March 11, 2016, 6-9PM
EVENT DESCRIPTION: The NEST Arts Factory is delighted to be hosting the first Bridgeport Artists Networking Party! Come and exchange ideas, meet your fellow creatives, hang out, eat, and drink, tour the NEST, and enjoy an evening of art and music!
Open to All Bridgeport Artists!!!!
$5 suggested donation to cover food and drinks
Open Studios
Saturday, March 12th, 2016, 2-5PM
EVENT DESCRIPTION: Meet the artists of the NEST. Tour open studios, listen to musicians, and enjoy a gallery show.
Femininus: Women in Art Exhibit
Opening reception: Saturday, March 12, 2-4 pm
On View: March 11-April 2, 2016
EVENT DESCRIPTION: A select group of artists explore the feminine figure, face, and form both representationally and more abstractly, in a variety of media.
PLEASE NOTE: Parking for events is available on either side of the street (Fairfield Avenue) or in the adjacent parking lot.
More Info
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LIVE SHOW: “It’s All Fun and Games” presents Improv
Friday, March 11th, 8:00 pm – 10:00 pm
The Bijou Theatre
EVENT DESCRIPTION:
“It’s All Fun and Games” features the improv of Ron Hill, Anthony Reimer, Chris Booth, Rebecca Vigil, Nick Carillo, Josh Hurley, Langston Belton, Devin Heater, and Jack Carter. Many trained at NYC’s Gotham City Improv (formally Groundings East) which have given us the greats, such as Will Farrell and Lisa Kudrow.
Doors Open at 7:00pm
Show Starts at 8:00pm
Theatre Seating: $20
Table Seating: $25
Student Tickets: $10 theatre seats
More Info
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LIVE THEATRE: Evita
March 11 – March 26
Downtown Cabaret Theatre
Event Description:
Lyrics by Tim Rice
Music by Andrew Lloyd Webber
Director: Eli Newsom
Musical Director: Clay Zambo
Choreographer: Emily Frangipane
Winner of the Tony Award for Best Musical, EVITA tells Eva Peron’s passionate and unforgettable meteoric rise from the slums of Argentina to the presidential mansion as First Lady. Adored by her people as a champion for the poor, she became one of the most powerful women in the world — while her greed, outsized ambition and fragile health made her one of the most tragic. The musical spawned a hit film featuring Madonna and features some of theater’s most beautiful songs, including “Don’t Cry for Me Argentina,” “Another Suitcase in Another Hall” and “High Flying, Adored.”
More Info
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LIVE MUSIC: Rick Reyes & Novela Sin Tiempo
Saturday, March 19th at 7pm
The Bijou Theatre
EVENT DESCRIPTION: Join the incomparable Rick Reyes as he starts his yearlong residency at The Bijou Theatre. Rick will bring extraordinary guest artists to share the sounds of the world with all of our guests. You won’t be able to see anything like this anywhere! Join us monthly to celebrate our world and its glorious music.
More Info
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LIVE MUSIC: Darius Murrell Presents: Musiq Soulchild & Elle Varner LIVE in Concert
Thursday March 24, 2016 @ 8:00PM
The Klein – 910 Fairfield Ave, Bridgeport, CT 06605
EVENT DESCRIPTION: Musiq Soulchild is a soul artist who’s unique style blends R&B, Soul, Funk, Rock, Blues, Jazz and Hip Hop. He creates a sound like no other, and identifies as a soul artists because “it encompasses all genres of music.” He was introduced to the world in 2000 with his platinum debut album Aijuswanaseing (I Just Want To Sing) which included a Billboard Hot R&B/Hip Hop single! He has had 2 platinum albums, 2 gold albums and 7 hit singles! Elle Varner grew up in a recording studio which served her well early on. Empowerment from her parents to help them write record breaking songs allowed Elle to harbor her creativity and eventually earn a spot in NYU’s Clive Davis Program of Recorded Music. She released her debut album in 2012 and debuted at #2 and #4 on Billboard’s R&B Albums and Top 200 Charts respectively. She also received a 4-star rating by Roling Stone Magazine with New York Magizine declaring it one of the Top 10 Albums of 2012. Don’t miss out on this night of extreme talent!
More Info
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Opening night for “NEVER DONE” – 855 Main Street, Downtown Bridgeport
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VISUAL ART: “NEVER DONE” Exhibition Artist Talk
Artist Talk: Thursday, March 24, 2016 5:30-8 p.m
On view at City Lights’ Temporary Home
855 Main Street
Downtown Bridgeport, CT
EVENT DESCRIPTION: A tradition at City Lights is to host an end of the winter artists’ talk… sharing food for the body and food for thought. Join us to enjoy discussion and community on Thursday evening March 24, 2016, 5:30-8p.m.
ABOUT THE EXHIBIT
Manifestations of the Beauty, Inspiration and Constant Strength of Black Women. The saying reminds us that “Women’s work is never done” The work to love, fight for social justice, actualize spiritual building and leadership, to nurture our families and create joy is never done. This exhibit features the work of Bridgeport artists manifesting the ‘work’, spirit and unending potential of Black women through painting and photography by Adger Cowans, Alicia Cobb, Janelle Gordon, Jefferine Jean-Jacques, Iyaba Ibo Mandingo, Olivier Kpognon, Shanna Melton.
Also featured is the fabric art by Bridgeport’s Gees Bend quilters: Eula Mosley, Sandra Pettway, (Bridgeport, CT) Rosie Pettway,(Brooklyn, NY) Betty Bendolph, Lucy Pettway Joanna Pettway, Mary Bendolph (Gees Bend)
Thank you to Shanna Melton for assistance with curation on this exhibit.
More Info
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EARTHFEST 2016
DATE: APRIL 21 – EARTH DAY
The Kennedy Center’s Maggie Daly Arts Coop (MDAC) and the Bijou Theatre are very pleased to announce that we have received a Regional Initiative Grant to spearhead a Bridgeport EarthFest celebration that will bring all sectors of the community together to learn, experience and celebrate Earth Day through various art forms. The genesis of this project originated last year when MDAC artists created sculptures, weavings, and collaborative art from recyclable materials. These works were exhibited in an art show and the public was invited to a reception in the MDAC gallery (located in the former Read’s building). The project’s success and the excitement it engendered spurred us to expand this concept and reach out to the community-at-large to engage in an Earth Day commemoration. This year’s vision is to sponsor several opportunities for local artists to create and display recyclable art and for other community members to join together creating art, interacting and learning from each other. With the understanding that this project may grow and evolve, current project activities include:
- A recyclable art exhibit by MDAC artists at the Bijou.
- A recyclable art “contest” where participants works will be showcased at various partnering businesses in downtown Bridgeport.
- A variety of Earth Day workshops on April 21st for community members and artists of all ages as well as a celebration on McLevy Green with tai chi, drumming circle and more.
- A community-wide “ribbon tying” symbolizing connections and intentions.
A culmination of EarthFest activities with a walk around the community culminating in a free celebration with music and awards at the Bijou.
The overall goals of Bridgeport EarthFest are:
- Through collaboration and the efforts of a diverse community, work toward raising awareness and creating a more sustainable and environmentally-friendly Bridgeport through the arts.
- Bring community members together to share resources, knowledge, expertise and promote social relations broadening the definition of an inclusive model.
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VISUAL ART: Mary Giehl: Rice is Life / Kim Waale: Simulacratopia (again), 2015
Housatonic Museum of Art – Burt Chernow Galleries
On View: February 12 – March 18, 2016
More Info
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LACE – 1980s : Photography by Adger Cowans
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VISUAL ART: “NEVER DONE” Exhibition
Artist Talk: Thursday, March 24, 2016 5:30-8 p.m
On view at City Lights’ Temporary Home 855 Main St.
Downtown Bridgeport, CT
After 12 years the City Lights have gone out at 37 Markle Court.
But the lights are kindling just a block away at 855 Main St. Our swanky temporary new digs are located across the street from the main branch of People’s United Bank, a landmark designed by Richard Meier. Construction is underway for a more permanent space at 1103 Main St. We are looking forward to adding some new life to the block between Fairfield Ave. and Elm St. Hopefully that move will take place in warmer weather!
Arctic temperatures and 12 years of stuff did not deter the City Lights crew who are preparing the former gas company location for business as usual and a new exhibit called “NEVER DONE”. Thank you to the City Lights board of directors and landlords Spinnaker and Forestone. Words cannot express the gratitude for the helping hands of Steve Gerber, Iyaba Ibo Mandingo, Robin Jopp, Jody Strmiska, Judy Rozarie, Jan and Bernie Jacobs, Robert Davies and John Farwell.
“NEVER DONE” February 25-March 25, 2016
City Lights Gallery
855 Main St.
Downtown Bridgeport, CT 06604
www.citylightsgallery.org
(203)334-7748
“NEVER DONE”
Manifestations of the Beauty, Inspiration and Constant Strength of Black Women. The saying reminds us that “Women’s work is never done” The work to love, fight for social justice, actualize spiritual building and leadership, to nurture our families and create joy is never done. This exhibit features the work of Bridgeport artists manifesting the ‘work’, spirit and unending potential of Black women through painting and photography by Adger Cowans, Alicia Cobb, Janelle Gordon, Jefferine Jean-Jacques, Iyaba Ibo Mandingo, Olivier Kpognon, Shanna Melton.
Also featured is the fabric art by Bridgeport’s Gees Bend quilters: Eula Mosley, Sandra Pettway, (Bridgeport, CT) Rosie Pettway,(Brooklyn, NY) Betty Bendolph, Lucy Pettway Joanna Pettway, Mary Bendolph (Gees Bend)
More Info
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CALL FOR ART: EarthFest Recycled Art Contest
Maggie Daly Arts Coop (MDAC)
Deadline EXTENDED: Friday, March 11th
DETAILS:
As the recipients of this year’s Regional Initiative Grant, MDAC and The Bijou Theatre are hosting the first ever Bridgeport EarthFest this spring (yay!). The celebration includes a juried, RECYCLED ART CONTEST. First place $1000, Second place $500, Third place Art Supply Gift Cards for up to $400. The Application deadline is February 26th. If you’re interested please read and fill out the attached forms and get them to MDAC via fax (203-690-1610), email (mdac@kennedyctr.org) or mail (MDAC, 1042 Broad St. Bridgeport, CT 06604). I can’t wait to see what you all come up with!
More Info
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CALL FOR ART: CIRCA: Digital Art Exhibit
The Nest Arts Factory
Deadline: March 19th
DETAILS:
Eligibility Open to work made with digital technology as an essential part of the creative or presentation process. Examples include digital collage or mixed media work, 3D printed work, digital painting and illustration, etc. 3D and 2D works. At this time we are not able to accept video or sound work. Entries must be original, entirely the work of the entrant and executed within the last three years and without the supervision of an instructor. Copies of existing artworks or based on copyrighted artworks are not eligible. If selected, work must be sent ready for hanging or display. There is no maximum or minimum size for submitted work, although it should fit through a standard doorway. Pedestals will be provided. Framed works will only be accepted with plexiglass – absolutely no glass. All work must be for sale. Early pick up of accepted artwork is not permitted.
Entry Requirements Artists must enter online. One $25 entry fee covers up to three entries. Entry fees are non-refundable. Each entry must have been completed within the past 3 years. Digital images must be of professional quality in jpeg format, minimum 300 dpi resolution and 1800 pixels on the longest side. File names must include the artist’s last name and the title of the work (i.e. lastname_title.jpg). The NEST reserves the right to refuse a work which has been significantly misrepresented by its entry.
An exhibition catalog will be generated using selected artwork submission images; therefore, it is imperative that artists adhere to the prospectus guidelines regarding images.
More Info
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MARCH ARTIST OF THE MONTH
JANE DAVILA
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March is Women’s History Month.
This month we’re excited to again feature Jane Davila and her work at the NEST Arts Factory. The NEST Arts Factory has an active month with an Artists Networking Party and a “Women in Art” exhibition. Davila will also be exhibiting at City Lights Gallery in April.
Learn more about this artist, The NEST Arts Factory, and related events below. |
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VISUAL ART: Bridgeport Artist Networks Party, Open Studios, “Feminius: Women in Art” exhibit opening reception.
March 11th and March 12th
The Nest Arts Factory
1720 Fairfield Avenue
Bridgeport, CT 06605
Artists Networking Party
Friday, March 11, 2016, 6-9PM
EVENT DESCRIPTION: The NEST Arts Factory is delighted to be hosting the first Bridgeport Artists Networking Party! Come and exchange ideas, meet your fellow creatives, hang out, eat, and drink, tour the NEST, and enjoy an evening of art and music!
Open to All Bridgeport Artists!!!!
$5 suggested donation to cover food and drinks
Open Studios
Saturday, March 12th, 2016, 2-5PM
EVENT DESCRIPTION: Meet the artists of the NEST. Tour open studios, listen to musicians, and enjoy a gallery show.
Femininus: Women in Art Exhibit
Opening reception: Saturday, March 12, 2-4 pm
On View: March 11-April 2, 2016
EVENT DESCRIPTION: A select group of artists explore the feminine figure, face, and form both representationally and more abstractly, in a variety of media.
PLEASE NOTE: Parking for events is available on either side of the street (Fairfield Avenue) or in the adjacent parking lot.
More Info
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| Q&A with Jane Davila
Q. How would you describe your artwork/style?
My work is collage-based. No matter the medium that I’m working in, it’s all about the layers! My work is graphic, stylized, and fairly minimalist.
Q. What medium do you work in?
I started as a printmaker, specializing in etchings and intaglios. Although I work mainly in fiber and mixed media now, many of my pieces incorporate printmaking in some form, including screen printing, gyotaku, and block printing. Having a printmaking background I find it more natural to work in a series, to take an idea and play with its many possible iterations before moving on to the next idea.
Q. What is your process like?
I sketch out compositions in a notebook, then often carve a block, burn a screen, or create a stencil. I’ll audition fabrics and art papers to arrive at a color palette, paint some backgrounds, and then jump into construction. The thinking and planning usually take more time than the actual execution because by the time I get to the “doing” phase most of the decisions have been made.
Q. What inspires you?
Nature, iconography, pattern, poetry, song lyrics, and typography all inspire me. I like to challenge myself to start with a lyric, a phrase, or a verse, and create a piece in response to it.
Q. How do you think you’ve changed or developed as an artist?
I think I’ve become much more aware of how interconnected we all are. You can research or find out about any art form, any topic with a click of a mouse. It becomes challenging to say something unique. I try to make sure that what I am expressing as an artist is showing my viewpoint that it’s filtered through my experiences and that I’ve left my “mark” on it.
For More Information on Jane Davila’s work and class schedule visit her website at: www.janedavila.com |
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The experience of living in Peru and traveling to a number of different places around the world has had a lasting impact on my appreciation for the diversity of cultural expression and iconography, which as a theme frequently shows up in my work. Repeating motifs of fish, birds, and insects reflect my ongoing fascination with nature, the environment, and human impact on both.
– Jane Davila |
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| ABOUT THE NEST Arts Factory
The NEST Arts Factory is a community of artists working in a wide variety of media in a reimagined factory building on the west side of Bridgeport, Connecticut. Open space and a dedicated gallery within the NEST allow both performing and visual artists to share their work with the community.
Executive Director: Vic Mulaire
Mission Statement: To showcase and nurture artists, musicians, and the creative process. To provide a unique and inspiring environment to explore and discover art and music while enabling artists and musicians to experiment and collaborate across disciplines and media.
A Brief History of the NEST
The NEST began as an outgrowth of Cricket Hosiery Co, the first company to combine the use of knitting machines with computers to design and produce graphic socks. Founded in1985 by Vic Mulaire and located in the old Casco building on Railroad Ave in Bridgeport CT, Cricket Hosiery employed a number of graphic artists to design socks and stockings, establishing an early relationship with the arts community. Doug Mulaire, artist and photographer, and his wife Susan Taylor, also an artist, were instrumental in the early years of this endeavor.
In 1996 sculptor John Carnright set up the first studio in excess factory space. And thus the community began. Other artists soon joined, with early founders David Flynn, Jed Wolf, Peter Konsterlie, Peter Duveen, Marie Riviera, Bob Ledoux, and Joe Provey, followed by many others.
Cricket Hosiery eventually moved to the present location at Fairfield Avenue in Bridgeport, but sadly did not survive the recession. Artist easels and drawing tables replaced knitting machines as the space gave over entirely to the new NEST Arts Factory. |
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