So You Want to Write a Children’s Book
So you want to writes a children’s book - Co-hosted by authors Annie Grilli and Faith Vicinanza
Limited to 10 participants, currently full.
If you want to follow along with the meeting topics for each meeting, they will be posted here. In August, we each discussed the children’s books we loved, why, what is our own vision for a children’s book.
The meetings will take place regularly on the 4th Sunday from 4 to 6 p.m. - next meeting is Sept 27.
Homework for the September meeting - jot down what stage are you at in the process - ideation, draft story, finised story, need an illustrator, looking for an agent, looking for a published, contract negotiations. What do you think is needed to take you to the next stage in your project.
Different people are at different stages, some just starting out, some writing the story, some in need of an illustrator, some on the verge of publishing, but whatever the stage you are at, the meetings will be progressive focusing on foundational topics.
DREAM Interpretation
Dream Interpretation Workshop
What are your dreams trying to tell you?
Explore the fascinating world of dreams in this engaging Dream Interpretation Workshop. Learn how to recognize symbols, uncover recurring themes, and discover the personal meaning behind your dreams. Bring a dream to share—or simply come curious—and gain new insight into the messages your subconscious may be revealing.
Workshop led by Susan Powers. Susan Powers is the inaugural Poet Laureate of Scotland, Connecticut, a published poet, and a lifelong educator. She holds an M.A. in English Literature and Creative Writing from Ohio University and a Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology from Saybrook Institute. Her poetry has appeared in Tiferet, Sixfold, the Orenaug Mountain Journal, and other publications. Her chapbook, Break the Spell, was published by New London Librarium. Drawing inspiration from the natural surroundings of her home in Scotland, Susan also promotes literacy and a love of poetry through workshops in schools and libraries throughout the community.
Dream. Discover. Interpret.
Limited to 20 particpants. $45.
Mosaics w/ Tia Rogers
All Materials provided, complete a mosaic project in one evening with Tia Rogers. (Max 15 people)
Tia Rogers is a Connecticut-based artist, photographer, healthcare professional, and creative entrepreneur. Her artistic practice reflects a natural talent for recognizing the beauty, character, and emotion found in everyday life.
For a number of years, Tia operated her own photography business, Raw & Focus Photography, where she brought a thoughtful and expressive eye to portraiture and visual storytelling. Her experience behind the camera continues to influence her broader creative work as an artist.
Alongside her career in healthcare, Tia explores additional forms of creative expression, including the development of original branded products. These independent projects allow her to combine art, photography, design, and entrepreneurship in fresh and imaginative ways.
Whether she is caring for others, creating artwork, capturing a meaningful image, or developing a new product, Tia approaches her work with compassion, curiosity, and an appreciation for authentic human experiences.
Come early, browse the gallery, looking forward to having you here
$30 - all materials provided - Register here!
Drop-In Sunday Morning Freewrite & Critique Group
Inspiration abounds in the artwork on the walls, art books, in shared experiences with other writers, and in our everyday experience of the world around us.
Whether we write poetry or prose, it isn’t always easy to carve out time for ourselves to write. Sunday mornings provide an opportunity for writers of all skill levels and genres to simply write, and have time to share a new work or work in progress for peer review and feedback, as well as find encouragement and support to progress our own craft and our goals as fellow writers.
Come write your poems, your personal stories, your children’s stories, your memoir by joining us on Sunday mornings for guided writing prompts and focused writing time followed by a group critique session for finished work (1 page of poetry or prose, bring copies to share if you want feedback on a piece of writing you are working on). Be prepared to stay up through noon depending on the number of writers bringing finished works to workshop.
Register Here! OR pay when you arrive $15.
VSG’s Second Sunday Poetry and Music \
MONDAY POETS - Part 2
VSG’s Second Sunday Poetry and Music takes place every 2nd Sunday at the Gallery. Renowned poets and local talents alike will find a platform for their poetry, prose, spoken word, and acoustic performances creating a vibrant atmosphere of creativity and expression. By hosting these events, VSG aims to foster a sense of community and promote the art of poetry in Southbury and beyond. Whether you’re a seasoned poet, an aspiring writer, a storyteller, or simply a lover of the spoken word, mark your calendar for our open mic afternoons.
Free and open to the public (Suggested Donation)
Watercolor Series with Sandra
Sandra Cointreau is a Connecticut-based watercolor artist and retired environmental civil engineer. After working globally on waste management for 50 years, she transitioned to full-time painting. She focuses on transparent watercolor techniques, featuring local landscapes, animals, and prehistoric rock art themes.
Bring your own supplies - this is a steeply discounted program and please provide your own materials. A materials list will be provided prior to the start of the series.
Bring Your Own Drinks! Non-alcoholic beverages available. The gallery CANNOT serve alcoholic drinks at the moment but you may bring in your own and drink inside of the gallery during the event if you wish.
Watercolor Series - 4 weeks $120
Writing Through Grief
2nd & 4th Tuesdays — grief writing program led by author and writing coach Cindy Eastman.
This group is an extension of a workshop held in 2023 when participants expressed a desire to keep going. Research shows that writing can be a healing way to deal with challenging life situations such as loss. Grief is often experienced in community and this writing group will allow participants to explore their own writing as a path through grief. New participants welcome.
$10 per session (12 People Limit)
Karaoke @ the Gallery
Join us at Vicinanza Studios and Gallery for our exciting Karaoke Night. Whether you're a seasoned performer or just looking to have some fun, our karaoke program is the perfect place to showcase your talent and enjoy a night of music and entertainment.
Event Highlights:
Date & Time: Every third Thursday, 6 PM - 9 PM - sign up starts at 5:30
Location: Vicinanza Studios and Gallery
Open to All: Singers of all skill levels are welcome
Wide Song Selection: From classic hits to the latest chart-toppers
Friendly Atmosphere: Supportive and lively community of music lovers
Grab your friends, pick your favorite songs, and get ready to shine under the spotlight at Vicinanza Studios and Gallery's Karaoke Night! It's the perfect way to unwind, have fun, and meet new people. See you there!
Tinting Workshop with Bob Ferrucci (Day 1) (1-4)
Vicinanza Studios & Gallery is thrilled to welcome back celebrated artist Bob Ferrucci for a unique, dual-track 🎨 Tinting Workshop. This immersive experience is designed for artists of all levels who want to master the delicate art of color layering while choosing the style that speaks to them most. ✨
In this session, Bob offers a personalized "choose your path" approach. Whether you are drawn to the charm of traditional storytelling or the emotive power of modern forms, you will learn how to breathe life into your canvas using Bob’s signature tinting methods. Our June 2026 two weekends will include the additional of oil pastel to your painting technique, and a choice of 2 weekends so we can limit each class to 5 people.
🖌️ Choose Your Artistic Path
Upon arrival, you will have the choice to create one of two distinct styles:
American Folk Art (AFA): Capture the warmth, tradition, and storied patterns of classic Americana through soft, luminous tints.
Abstract Composition: Explore the subtle magic of color fields, layering, and the powerful relationship between shape and mood.
✨ What You Will Explore
Known for his exceptional technique and thoughtful instruction 🎭, Bob provides a rare opportunity to learn how to balance softness and strength. During this engaging workshop, you will:
✅ Learn Foundational and Advanced Tinting Techniques to create soft, glowing color fields regardless of your chosen style.
✅ Master Color Relationships to build depth, atmosphere, and an integrated mood 🎨.
✅ Understand Compositional Balance whether working with the structured charm of Folk Art or the fluid nature of Abstraction ☁️.
✅ Receive Personalized, One-on-One Feedback in an intimate studio setting 🖌️.
💡 Event Details
Whether you're an experienced painter or just starting your artistic journey 🧑🎨, this workshop invites you to elevate your craft and gain new confidence in your use of color.
Intimate Learning: Space is strictly limited to 8 students to ensure everyone receives Bob's direct guidance.
Environment: Join us in the warm and welcoming atmosphere of Vicinanza Studios & Gallery for a day of inspiration and community.
Don't miss this exciting opportunity to learn from a master. Reserve your spot today and decide: will you go Folk or Abstract?
Tinting Workshop with Bob Ferrucci (Day 2) (1-4)
Vicinanza Studios & Gallery is thrilled to welcome back celebrated artist Bob Ferrucci for a unique, dual-track 🎨 Tinting Workshop. This immersive experience is designed for artists of all levels who want to master the delicate art of color layering while choosing the style that speaks to them most. ✨
In this session, Bob offers a personalized "choose your path" approach. Whether you are drawn to the charm of traditional storytelling or the emotive power of modern forms, you will learn how to breathe life into your canvas using Bob’s signature tinting methods. Our June 2026 two weekends will include the additional of oil pastel to your painting technique, and a choice of 2 weekends so we can limit each class to 5 people.
🖌️ Choose Your Artistic Path
Upon arrival, you will have the choice to create one of two distinct styles:
American Folk Art (AFA): Capture the warmth, tradition, and storied patterns of classic Americana through soft, luminous tints.
Abstract Composition: Explore the subtle magic of color fields, layering, and the powerful relationship between shape and mood.
✨ What You Will Explore
Known for his exceptional technique and thoughtful instruction 🎭, Bob provides a rare opportunity to learn how to balance softness and strength. During this engaging workshop, you will:
✅ Learn Foundational and Advanced Tinting Techniques to create soft, glowing color fields regardless of your chosen style.
✅ Master Color Relationships to build depth, atmosphere, and an integrated mood 🎨.
✅ Understand Compositional Balance whether working with the structured charm of Folk Art or the fluid nature of Abstraction ☁️.
✅ Receive Personalized, One-on-One Feedback in an intimate studio setting 🖌️.
💡 Event Details
Whether you're an experienced painter or just starting your artistic journey 🧑🎨, this workshop invites you to elevate your craft and gain new confidence in your use of color.
Intimate Learning: Space is strictly limited to 8 students to ensure everyone receives Bob's direct guidance.
Environment: Join us in the warm and welcoming atmosphere of Vicinanza Studios & Gallery for a day of inspiration and community.
Don't miss this exciting opportunity to learn from a master. Reserve your spot today and decide: will you go Folk or Abstract?
Drop-In Sunday Morning Freewrite & Critique Group
Inspiration abounds in the artwork on the walls, art books, in shared experiences with other writers, and in our everyday experience of the world around us.
Whether we write poetry or prose, it isn’t always easy to carve out time for ourselves to write. Sunday mornings provide an opportunity for writers of all skill levels and genres to simply write, and have time to share a new work or work in progress for peer review and feedback, as well as find encouragement and support to progress our own craft and our goals as fellow writers.
Come write your poems, your personal stories, your children’s stories, your memoir by joining us on Sunday mornings for guided writing prompts and focused writing time followed by a group critique session for finished work (1 page of poetry or prose, bring copies to share if you want feedback on a piece of writing you are working on). Be prepared to stay up through noon depending on the number of writers bringing finished works to workshop.
Register Here! OR pay when you arrive $15.
Stirring the Muses: Book Launch
Stirring the Muse: Nutmeg Poets Laureate offer Recipes and Verse, Edited by Susan Marie Powers, Orenaug Mountain Publishing (2026)
Potluck and poetry. Poets published in the Stirring the Muse anthology will serve up their recipes (free food :-) ) and their poems for all to enjoy. BYOB.
Free and open to the public.
Watercolor Series with Sandra (week 2)
Sandra Cointreau is a Connecticut-based watercolor artist and retired environmental civil engineer. After working globally on waste management for 50 years, she transitioned to full-time painting. She focuses on transparent watercolor techniques, featuring local landscapes, animals, and prehistoric rock art themes.
Bring Your Own Drinks! Non-alcoholic beverages available. The gallery CANNOT serve alcoholic drinks at the moment but you may bring in your own and drink inside of the gallery during the event if you wish.
Watercolor Series - 4 weeks $120
Writing Craft & Critique with Irene Sherlock, MFA (10 - 12)
Writing Craft & Critique with Irene Sherlock, MFA
All proceeds will support future programming at Vicinanza Studios and Gallery
Do you enjoy writing but are wondering how to take your work to the next level? Would you benefit from informed feedback in a collegial, supportive workshop? Whether your interest is in memoir, personal essays, or fiction, published author Irene Sherlock has designed a program to help advance your writing. Each participant will leave with new insights into how to better craft and convey the meaning of their message.
At each session, participants will analyze poetry or prose, examining ways in which different writing styles share common traits of storytelling. Bring one page of poetry or prose to workshop. This setting allows for ideas to flourish and for each member to benefit from a professional workshop experience.
The workshop is limited to participants.
Coffee and tea will be provided.
$20 - register here
Here’s what two former group members have to say about these workshops:
“Irene delivered supportive feedback in an honest, upbeat manner that never left me feeling deflated or discouraged –– quite the opposite. Her ability to focus on the minute details, as well as the overall direction of a piece, helped me achieve a greater understanding of the craft. Irene’s thorough feedback, guidance and generosity exceeded anything I could have hoped for.” Colleen W., workshop participant
“Irene Sherlock’s writing class changed my life. Although my job is time-consuming and exhausting, I now find time to write in my journal and prepare for my future as a writer. Irene was so generous with her time and knowledge about what it takes to fine-tune and polish a piece of writing.” Joyce W., workshop participant
Gauya Fit Client Appreciation. Party - Private Event
SPECIAL EVENT
Gauya Fit Client Appreciation Party
Private Event.
Intermediate Tarot Reading Workshop
Vicinanza Studios & Gallery will host an Intermediate Tarot Reading Class led by Christina Arroyo on October 25 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Ms. Arroyo has led multiple introduction to tarot workshops and is now providing this next level of training.
Designed for readers who already understand tarot basics, the class will help students deepen your skills, strengthen your intuition and develop greater confidence in interpreting the cards. Each participant will receive a comprehensive 400+ page student workbook.
Students are encouraged to bring their own tarot deck. Decks will also be available for purchase for $10.
Advance registration is required. $50, register here.
About Vicinanza Studios & Gallery
Vicinanza Studios & Gallery offers a creative setting for classes, exhibitions and community experiences that encourage artistic and personal exploration.
Watercolor Series with Sandra (week 3)
Sandra Cointreau is a Connecticut-based watercolor artist and retired environmental civil engineer. After working globally on waste management for 50 years, she transitioned to full-time painting. She focuses on transparent watercolor techniques, featuring local landscapes, animals, and prehistoric rock art themes.
Bring Your Own Drinks! Non-alcoholic beverages available. The gallery CANNOT serve alcoholic drinks at the moment but you may bring in your own and drink inside of the gallery during the event if you wish.
Watercolor Series - 4 weeks $120
Writing Through Grief
2nd & 4th Tuesdays — grief writing program led by author and writing coach Cindy Eastman.
This group is an extension of a workshop held in 2023 when participants expressed a desire to keep going. Research shows that writing can be a healing way to deal with challenging life situations such as loss. Grief is often experienced in community and this writing group will allow participants to explore their own writing as a path through grief. New participants welcome.
$10 per session (12 People Limit)
The Vagina Monologues
The Vagina Monologues is an episodic play by V (formerly Eve Ensler) that explores women's sexuality, experiences, and the social stigma surrounding them through a series of monologues based on interviews with hundreds of women. Premiering in 1996, the work is celebrated for its humor, poignancy, and frank discussion of topics like abuse, body image, and pleasure, and it inspired the global activist movement V-Day to end violence against women and girls.
For tickets, go to TICKETS
Watercolor Series with Sandra (week 4)
Sandra Cointreau is a Connecticut-based watercolor artist and retired environmental civil engineer. After working globally on waste management for 50 years, she transitioned to full-time painting. She focuses on transparent watercolor techniques, featuring local landscapes, animals, and prehistoric rock art themes.
Bring Your Own Drinks! Non-alcoholic beverages available. The gallery CANNOT serve alcoholic drinks at the moment but you may bring in your own and drink inside of the gallery during the event if you wish.
Watercolor Series - 4 weeks $120 - paid at the start of the course
Writing Craft & Critique with Irene Sherlock, MFA (10 - 12)
Writing Craft & Critique with Irene Sherlock, MFA
All proceeds support future programming at Vicinanza Studios and Gallery
Do you enjoy writing but are wondering how to take your work to the next level? Would you benefit from informed feedback in a collegial, supportive workshop? Whether your interest is in memoir, personal essays, or fiction, published author Irene Sherlock has designed a program to help advance your writing. Each participant will leave with new insights into how to better craft and convey the meaning of their message.
At each session, participants will analyze poetry or prose, examining ways in which different writing styles share common traits of storytelling. Bring one page of poetry or prose to workshop. This setting allows for ideas to flourish and for each member to benefit from a professional workshop experience.
The workshop is limited to participants.
Coffee and tea will be provided.
$20 - register here
Here’s what two former group members have to say about these workshops:
“Irene delivered supportive feedback in an honest, upbeat manner that never left me feeling deflated or discouraged –– quite the opposite. Her ability to focus on the minute details, as well as the overall direction of a piece, helped me achieve a greater understanding of the craft. Irene’s thorough feedback, guidance and generosity exceeded anything I could have hoped for.” Colleen W., workshop participant
“Irene Sherlock’s writing class changed my life. Although my job is time-consuming and exhausting, I now find time to write in my journal and prepare for my future as a writer. Irene was so generous with her time and knowledge about what it takes to fine-tune and polish a piece of writing.” Joyce W., workshop participant
Paint and Sip with Faith Vicinanza
Faith Vicinanza is an artist, writer, poet, so forth and so on :-) based in Southbury, Connecticut, whose artwork her obsession with color. Inspired by her time spent gardening and observing the natural world, she incorporates. She teaches a range of art and writing classes at the gallery and is committed to building and growing a community gathering place for artistic expression (including karaoke).
About Faith - https://vicinanza-studios.com/artists
The Paint and Sip:
Bring Your Own Drinks!
Non-alcoholic beverages will be served. The gallery CANNOT serve alcoholic drinks at the moment but you may bring in your own and drink inside of the gallery during the event!
Join us for a fun and a relaxing guided painting class led by local artist Faith Vicinanza on Friday, September 25th, 6 - 7:30 No experience needed—just bring your creativity! All materials and step-by-step instruction are provided. Come sip, paint, and enjoy an evening of art.
Karaoke @ the Gallery
Join us at Vicinanza Studios and Gallery for our exciting Karaoke Night. Whether you're a seasoned performer or just looking to have some fun, our karaoke program is the perfect place to showcase your talent and enjoy a night of music and entertainment.
Event Highlights:
Date & Time: Every third Thursday, 6 PM - 9 PM - sign up starts at 5:30
Location: Vicinanza Studios and Gallery
Open to All: Singers of all skill levels are welcome
Wide Song Selection: From classic hits to the latest chart-toppers
Friendly Atmosphere: Supportive and lively community of music lovers
Grab your friends, pick your favorite songs, and get ready to shine under the spotlight at Vicinanza Studios and Gallery's Karaoke Night! It's the perfect way to unwind, have fun, and meet new people. See you there!
Writing Through Grief
2nd & 4th Tuesdays — grief writing program led by author and writing coach Cindy Eastman.
This group is an extension of a workshop held in 2023 when participants expressed a desire to keep going. Research shows that writing can be a healing way to deal with challenging life situations such as loss. Grief is often experienced in community and this writing group will allow participants to explore their own writing as a path through grief. New participants welcome.
$10 per session (12 People Limit)
Drop-In Sunday Morning Freewrite & Critique Group
Inspiration abounds in the artwork on the walls, art books, in shared experiences with other writers, and in our everyday experience of the world around us.
Whether we write poetry or prose, it isn’t always easy to carve out time for ourselves to write. Sunday mornings provide an opportunity for writers of all skill levels and genres to simply write, and have time to share a new work or work in progress for peer review and feedback, as well as find encouragement and support to progress our own craft and our goals as fellow writers.
Come write your poems, your personal stories, your children’s stories, your memoir by joining us on Sunday mornings for guided writing prompts and focused writing time followed by a group critique session for finished work (1 page of poetry or prose, bring copies to share if you want feedback on a piece of writing you are working on). Be prepared to stay up through noon depending on the number of writers bringing finished works to workshop.
Register Here! OR pay when you arrive $15.
Song Making Workshop
Song Making with Annie Grilli
Annie Grilli has been a singer/songwriter since childhood and has been fortunate to write and perform for many varied venues throughout her eclectic career. Some of these places include: The Bronx Zoo, Mystic Aquarium, United Nations, Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County, Avery Fisher Hall, Lone Star Cafe, Bitter End, and Folk City. Also, Annie has toured in Switzerland, Norway, Bonaire, and Puerto Rico.
In addition to presenting an overview of basic elements and structures of music and lyrics, with examples of how each can be used to enhance the other, Annie will share tips and techniques she’s used for creating and crafting original songs. Sources of inspiration for subject matter will be explored, as well as approaches and exercises that bring a song to life in a way that best expresses what you are trying to convey.
A thought-provoking questionnaire will be sent out to attendees before the workshop and a handout with additional prompts, resources, and exercises will be provided at the end of the workshop. Music lovers of all levels are a good fit for this program. If you’ve got a heart, you’ll feel the beat.
Register here! $45
VSG’s Second Sunday Poetry and Music
MONDAY POETS - Part 1
VSG’s Second Sunday Poetry and Music takes place every 2nd Sunday at the Gallery. Renowned poets and local talents alike will find a platform for their poetry, prose, spoken word, and acoustic performances creating a vibrant atmosphere of creativity and expression. By hosting these events, VSG aims to foster a sense of community and promote the art of poetry in Southbury and beyond. Whether you’re a seasoned poet, an aspiring writer, a storyteller, or simply a lover of the spoken word, mark your calendar for our open mic afternoons.
Free and open to the public (Suggested Donation)
Mary Panke has written hundreds of poems about family over the last 50 years. A handful have been published in journals and online. Once upon a time she memorized her poems for slam performance with the likes of Faith Vicinanza and Elizabeth Thomas. Now she hangs with The Monday Poets, a longstanding group of fabulous women writers who meet monthly to share their work. Mary lives in Vernon, CT with her forever partner, Dalia; their 2 adult sons, Max & Sam; 3 cats, Hobbes, Mango & Manuka; and wild puppy Pep Watson.
Davyne Verstandig was a lecturer in English and Creative Writing at the University of Connecticut. (retired June 2020 after 25 years.) Her books include three books of poetry, Pieces of the Whole, Provisions and a quiet journey. Her work appears in Sex and Sexuality in a Feminist World, Songs of the Marrow Bone, Where Beach Meets Ocean, This One Has No Name, The Monday Poets, and Waking Up to the Earth, Connecticut Poets in a Time of Global Climate Crisis.
She has also performed improvisational work “composing on the tongue” painting and poetry at The Knitting Factory and Housing Works Café in New York City and given readings throughout New England. She gives writing workshops at both The Wisdom House Retreat Center in Litchfield, CT. and at Camp Washington- a Episcopal Retreat Center in Morris, Ct.
She is Poet Laureate Emerita of Washington and is a Justice of the Peace. She can be found at mymindisintheink@gmail.com., and www.davyneverstandig.com . She is a writing consultant. Books available on Amazon, some at The Hickory Stick Bookshop, Washington, Ct.
Susannah Lawrence is a poet based in Norfolk, Connecticut. She holds a Master’s in Writing from Vermont College of Fine Arts and is a longtime member of the Monday Poets of Litchfield County, a group of women writers who meet to share new work and offer thoughtful critique. She is the author of the poetry collection Just Above the Bone, and her work has appeared in Waking Up to the Earth: Connecticut Poets in a Time of Global Climate Crisis, edited by Connecticut Poet Laureate Margaret Gibson. Wood has given readings throughout northwest Connecticut, including at the Norfolk Library, and has been an active member of the region’s literary community for many years.
Amanda McGrew is a poet and teacher in northwest Connecticut and a member of the Monday Poets of Litchfield County. Her involvement in the region’s literary community has also included the long-running No Name Writing Group in Washington, Connecticut, where writers gather to share and critique their work. McGrew has participated in public readings of the group’s work, including at the Hickory Stick Bookshop in Washington Depot, and contributed to the literary community surrounding the group and its anthology, This One Has No Name. As both an educator and writer, she brings a teacher’s attentiveness to language and a poet’s interest in observation, experience, and the possibilities of the written word.
Play Reading: My Dearest Friend: The Letters of Abigail and John Adams
My Dearest Friend: The Letters of Abigail and John Adams
presented by Carol Burgess and Ron Dukenski
The letters of John and Abigail Adams provide an amazing perspective on the lives of two great Americans as they actually lived it—and much of it apart from each other— through the events of the American Revolution and beyond. The insight into their character and intellect, their challenges as a couple as they swirl through the milieu of their times, and their great love and deep respect for each other are wonderfully rendered in their writings. Bringing these letters to life in the Adamses’ own words gives audience members a rare chance to hear and reflect upon the world as they experienced it. And the spoken word offers a much greater depth of meaning than the written word alone can provide.
Ron Dukenski and Carol Burgess are residents of Heritage Village, members of the Heritage Village Theater Guild, and are pleased present them to you in commemoration of America’s 250 th anniversary year.
Followed by a reception with the actors. BYOB if you wish.
FREE - freewill offering. Registration required to ensure sufficient seating.
Writing Through Grief
2nd & 4th Tuesdays — grief writing program led by author and writing coach Cindy Eastman.
This group is an extension of a workshop held in 2023 when participants expressed a desire to keep going. Research shows that writing can be a healing way to deal with challenging life situations such as loss. Grief is often experienced in community and this writing group will allow participants to explore their own writing as a path through grief. New participants welcome.
$10 per session (12 People Limit)
Drop-In Sunday Morning Freewrite & Critique Group
Inspiration abounds in the artwork on the walls, art books, in shared experiences with other writers, and in our everyday experience of the world around us.
Whether we write poetry or prose, it isn’t always easy to carve out time for ourselves to write. Sunday mornings provide an opportunity for writers of all skill levels and genres to simply write, and have time to share a new work or work in progress for peer review and feedback, as well as find encouragement and support to progress our own craft and our goals as fellow writers.
Come write your poems, your personal stories, your children’s stories, your memoir by joining us on Sunday mornings for guided writing prompts and focused writing time followed by a group critique session for finished work (1 page of poetry or prose, bring copies to share if you want feedback on a piece of writing you are working on). Be prepared to stay up through noon depending on the number of writers bringing finished works to workshop.
Register Here! OR pay when you arrive $15.
VSG Artisan Marketplace
SPECIAL EVENT
POP-UP Artisans’ Marketplace @ the Gallery Celebrates Local Art, Artists & Handcrafted Goods
A special day of original artwork, artisan products, live painting, special discounts, refreshments, raffles and more
The Gallery invites the community to shop local, discover original art, and meet talented area artists and makers at the POP-UP Artisans’ Marketplace @ the Gallery.
This special marketplace will bring together local artists, artisans, and one-of-a-kind creations for a fun day of shopping, art, and community. Visitors will find everything from original wall art and pottery to books, candles, body essentials, notecards, soaps, and more—all while enjoying coffee, tea and crumpets at the Gallery.
LIVE OIL PAINTING DEMONSTRATION
From 1–3 p.m., artist Susan Hayword will present a live oil painting demonstration, giving visitors an opportunity to watch an original work of art come to life.
Even better, the completed oil painting will be raffled off!
SHOP LOCAL ART & ARTISAN GOODS
The POP-UP Artisans’ Marketplace will feature an eclectic selection of locally created items, including:
Original wall art by local artists
Pottery
Soaps
Notecards
Books
Body essentials
Candles
And more
SPECIAL ART OFFERS
Visitors can also take advantage of several special opportunities available during the marketplace:
Bob Ferruci Wall Art — 25% OFF
A special opportunity to add Bob Ferruci artwork to your collection at a 25% discount.
David & Jeri-Lyn Walsh — 10% OFF Selected Artwork
Enjoy a 10% discount on selected works by David and Jeri-Lyn Walsh.
PRINT-O-RAMA
Love original art but looking for something at a different price point? Explore Print-o-Rama, featuring prints of original artwork from more than a dozen artists.
ENTER TO WIN A $50 GALLERY GIFT CERTIFICATE
While you’re visiting, be sure to enter for a chance to win a $50 Gift Certificate to the Gallery—and use it to bring home something special.
The POP-UP Artisans’ Marketplace @ the Gallery is an opportunity to shop small, support local artists and artisans, discover unique gifts and artwork, and spend a welcoming day at the Gallery.
Come for the art. Stay for the coffee, tea and crumpets. Leave with something you love!
Studio Time at VSG
Studio Time at the Gallery
Looking for a beautiful, inspiring place to create? Join us for Studio Time at the Gallery—an open, self-directed creative session where artists, writers, and creatives are welcome to spend the day immersed in art.
Bring your paints, sketchbook, journal, laptop, or manuscript and enjoy a peaceful environment designed to spark creativity. Whether you're working on your next masterpiece, writing your novel, or simply seeking a change of scenery, our gallery offers the perfect space to focus and create.
Enjoy:
A welcoming, art-filled atmosphere
Comfortable workspace
Free Wi-Fi
A quiet, inspiring setting
The freedom to work at your own pace
Come for an hour or stay for the day. Studio Time is your opportunity to create, connect with your creativity, and be inspired by the artwork that surrounds you.
Bring your supplies—we'll provide the inspiration.
If you are seeking guidance with your art or your writing, book time with me (Faith Vicinanza) - fees depend on what you want support with and for how long.