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.
Drop-In Sunday Morning Writing
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.
Artist Reception - David Walsh & Jeri-Lyn Walsh
Artist Reception David Walsh and Jeri-Lyn Walsh
David Walsh - Over a remarkable five-decade artistic journey, David J. Walsh has developed a diverse portfolio across acrylic, oil, watercolor, gouache, scratchboard, and pastel. Inspired by his grandfather, an accomplished artist, David discovered a deep passion for creating vibrant, textured works that connect with viewers on many levels. A dedicated lifelong learner, David refined his skills at Paier Art College, where he studied the principles of art and worked to become a well-rounded artist like his grandfather. That foundation strengthened his knowledge and sparked an ongoing commitment to growth and creative exploration. Since retiring from the U.S. Army, David has devoted himself to making art nearly every day. He has also learned professional framing techniques, adding another dimension to his practice and enhancing how his work is presented to viewers. Through work that combines technical skill with emotional depth, David continues to inspire and engage audiences. He invites viewers to share in his lifelong journey of creativity, exploration, and expression, celebrating the beauty found in every stroke and color.
Jeri-Lyn spent her career in banking, including 20+ years at JPMorgan Chase. During that time, she attended Sacred Heart University in Fairfield, Connecticut, double majoring in Finance and Business Management and graduating Magna Cum Laude. After early retirement, she focused on family, caring for her young nephew and later her mother, who passed away from ALS in 2018. An accomplished singer, Jeri-Lyn has studied with several vocal teachers, most recently Cynthia Servetas in Southbury. She sings with the Heritage Singers at Heritage Village and The Waterbury Chorale. In 2025, she made her acting and singing debut with The Newbury Musical Theater Company as Mother Abbess in “The Sound of Music,” and has also served as Prop Mistress for productions over the past three years. She has acted with and assisted the Heritage Village Theater Guild in “Golden” and other shows. Jeri-Lyn often calls herself a “jack of all trades, master of none.” She has explored many crafts, from paper craft and oil painting to silk flower arranging and needlework, always collecting all the supplies for her latest creative pursuit. She began painting with watercolors five years ago and has since expanded into acrylics, charcoal, and graphite. She is grateful for classes with local artists Robert Ferrucci, Priscilla Watson, Sandra Cointreau, and ShawnaLee Kwashnak, whose guidance helped her embrace her creative side. Her work ranges from abstract to detailed pieces across multiple mediums. When she is not painting or singing, she is studying to become a Certified Aromatherapist.
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!
Drop-In Sunday Morning Writing
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.
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, August 21st from 6 to 8. 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.
Register for the Paint and Sip here!
VSG Artisan Marketplace
SPECIAL EVENT
POP-UP Artisans’ Marketplace @ the Gallery - local artists, oil painting demo, tea and crumpets, a Bob Ferruci wall art discount 25%, Print-o-Rama, 10 a.m. - 4 p.m., visit the gallery & enter for a chance to win a $50 Gift Certificate
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
What is there to know, you ask?
Types of children’s book
Size, shape, number of pages, front matter, back matter, copyright, ISBN
Double spread, single spread, illustrations, illustrators, retail price
Agents, book contract, publishing rights vs audio rights vs video rights, all kinds of rights
Resources (Society of Children’s Book Writers and Illustators)
$10
Writing Craft & Critique with Irene Sherlock, MFA
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 10 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
Writing Through Grief
For July, 1st and 3rd 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 Person Limit)
Kids’ Lit Open Mike
Young Voices Take Center Stage at Kids' Literature Open Mic
An Afternoon of Poems and Stories for Kids, About Kids, and By Kids
Young storytellers, poets, families, educators, and community members are invited to celebrate the creativity and imagination of children at the Kids' Literature Open Mic, a welcoming event featuring poems and stories for kids, about kids, and by kids.
Designed to inspire a love of reading, writing, and performance, the open mic offers children the opportunity to share their original poems, stories, and spoken-word pieces in a supportive, encouraging environment. Adult writers are also invited to read work written for young audiences or celebrating the experiences, adventures, and perspectives of childhood.
Whether participants are seasoned performers or stepping up to the microphone for the first time, the event emphasizes creativity, confidence, and community. Listeners of all ages are welcome to enjoy an afternoon filled with laughter, imagination, and heartfelt storytelling.
This event is about giving young voices a place to be heard while celebrating literature that speaks to the wonder, curiosity, and resilience of childhood. Every child has a story worth telling, and every story has the power to inspire.
Who Can Participate: Children, families, educators, and writers of all ages
Participants are encouraged to bring original work or favorite age-appropriate selections to share. Families, teachers, librarians, and friends are invited to attend and cheer on the young authors and performers.
The Kids' Literature Open Mic aims to foster literacy, self-expression, and community by creating a joyful space where stories come alive and every voice matters.
Free and open to the public (Suggested Donation)
Drop-In Sunday Morning Writing
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.
Karaoke @ the Gallery (Copy)
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!
VSG’s Second Sunday Poetry and Music
Featuring Bethel Poet Laureate Hannah Lipman and Danbury Poet Laureate Cheryl Panosian.
https://www.bethelgrapevine.com/authors/hannah-lipman --- Hannah Lipman has lived in Bethel since 1996. She's a mom of two sons and the owner and founder of a national executive search firm, founded in 1991. She is the founder and managing editor of The Bethel Grapevine and started this new venture to capture the uniqueness and community feel of Bethel in an online magazine experience. Hannah loves to make things and bring people together; besides her family, creating something out of nothing is her greatest joy.
Cheryl Panosian --- Cheryl Panosian is the first Poet Laureate for Danbury. She is serving a 3 year term. Follow her on Instagram @danburypoetlaureate or email at danburypoetlaureate.cp@gmail.com ---- Danbury’s first Poet Laureate, is a poet and licensed psychotherapist whose work has appeared in various journals. Her poetry draws on her Armenian heritage and explores themes of family, nature, and social issues.
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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)
Meet the Artist - Opening Reception for OX
Meet the Artist - Artist Opening Reception for OX
His legal name is OX and he explains that he is a highly right brained person, but has lived most of his life in a left brained world. He is extraordinarily spiritual and wrote a book about his spirituality entitled My Secret Life in the Light.
OX's art journey began at age five, when he produced a very exacting paint by the numbers horse, which when complete, looked like a very sick horse. It was not until OX had lived at Heritage Village, when he once again took up painting. His first endeavor proved to be so successful that Faith Vicinanza (that would be me) has it hanging on her condo wall.
At VSG, OX was introduced to Acrylic Fluid Painting. For most of a year, he tried all sorts of techniques, with results from disasters to fairly impressive. Even though he sold several, OX wanted to branch out and experiment with many other techniques and medium. OX took several workshops at VSG, he is continually learning from his ever growing art book library, along with online courses…exploring advanced acrylic and oil techniques, airbrushing, impasto, oil and cold wax, alcohol inks, figure painting, seascapes and so much more.
He began painting on canvas and quickly moved to wood, copper, glass, 300 pound hand-made 100% cotton deckled edged watercolor paper, Claybord, Aquabord, Shikishi board and recently aluminum, some of which he cut into abstract forms and then twisted and bent the aluminum into a 3D substrate. He paints in oil, acrylic, watercolor, plus alcohol and acrylic ink…often using a combination of those. OX paintes with brushes, painting knives, rollers, squeegees, dot makers, stencils, scrapers, airbrush, feathers, almost anything…along with good old fingers.
Pieces have been accepted to juried and non-juried exhibitions at West Hartford Art League, Cheshire Art League and Hamden Art League. Recently, at Art at the Meetinghouse in Roxbury, his acrylic abstract GOLD, on twisted 3D Aluminum, received an award. OX has been reaching out to totally new creativity and finding more fun in the freedom. Recently, he has painted some commissioned pieces.
Other than art, OX currently sings, acts, directs, coaches actors and enjoys many sports.
Writing Through Grief
For July, 1st and 3rd 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 Writing
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.