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.
Writing Through Grief
Bi-weekly 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)
ARTIST RECEPTION: Where Are We Now: The Abstract Works of Charles Gulbrandsen
Vicinanza Studios & Gallery invites you to experience the radiant and introspective works of Charles Gulbrandsen.
A third-generation artist whose roots trace back to the iconic ceiling of Grand Central Terminal, Charles continues his family's legacy with a contemporary exploration of abstraction, light, and space. From his prestigious beginnings — earning accolades at The Cooper Union and restoring the celestial mural of Grand Central in 1996 — to his current body of work, Gulbrandsen’s paintings provoke a sensory dialogue between opacity and translucency.
Described as glimpses of distant nebulae or firing neurons, his works challenge perceptions of scale and dimensionality. Through luminous layers that both reveal and obscure, Charles invites viewers into a space where light and form dissolve and intertwine, creating moments that feel at once natural and otherworldly.
Join us in celebrating this extraordinary collection that blurs the lines between the seen and unseen, and step into a world where every canvas asks, "What place is this, and where are we now?"
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.
VSG’s Sunday Poetry and Music
For May, Second Sunday Poetry and Music will be on the 3rd Sunday due to Mother’s day on May 11th.
VSG’s 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)
Karaoke at 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
Bi-weekly 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 Art of Seeing - Photo Composition
Workshop Announcement: Capturing Vision Through Photography
“It’s not what you look at that matters, it’s what you see.” - Henry David Thoreau
Join us in an engaging workshop focused on the art of photography and the elements that contribute to capturing incredible images. We will delve into key concepts that can elevate your photography skills, including:
Rule of Thirds: Learn how to create balanced and impactful compositions.
Framing: Discover how framing can enhance your subject and add depth to your images.
Leading Lines: Explore techniques that draw the viewer's eye and create a sense of movement.
Lighting: Understand the significance of light and how to utilize it to your advantage.
In addition to these foundational concepts, we will discuss the important idea that "If it’s in the image, it either works for you or against you," and how to make intentional choices in your photography.
The workshop will culminate in a hands-on photo shoot in the vicinity of our studio. Prepare for an inspiring walk where you can apply what you have learned.
Details:
Cost: $40
What to Bring: Your camera, iPhone, and a readiness to be creative.
We look forward to seeing how you visualize the world through your lens.
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.
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.
VSG’s Second Sunday Poetry and Music
First Thursday’s is now Second Sundays
Featuring poet Dan Kantak.
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.
SNOW DATE: June 15th
Free and open to the public (Suggested Donation)
Writing Through Grief
Bi-weekly 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.
An Evening With Annie and Her "Associate" - Their Songs, the Stories and Their Inspiration"
Their Songs, the Stories and Their Inspirations
Annie and Safari Bob met and fell in love playing music on the stage of the world famous LoneStar Cafe in Manhattan’s Greenwich Village over 40 years ago. Thousands of concerts and hundreds of original songs, dances and shows later, they continue to bring their message of love and care for the Planet and to share their joi de vivre!
For the past 35 years as Annie and the Natural Wonder Band they have performed for over 850,000 friends around the world, written over 150 songs, hosted a television show, had a daughter and a granddaughter, and released 10 albums of original music - all about the wonders of Nature - from Amoebas to Zebras!!!
Annie and Safari Bob have performed internationally and at such places as Lincoln Center, The United Nations, the Natural History Museum of L.A. (and the one in New York City), The Bottom Line, The Levitt Pavilion, The Charles Ives Center, the Central Park Zoo, the Beardsley Zoo, the Mystic, Norwalk, and Brooklyn Aquariums and many, many colleges, elementary schools, town parks, and their favorites, the libraries.
Annie and Safari Bob are honorary members of the United Nations Environmental Programme and they wrote the centennial theme for the Wildlife Conservation Society where they were the "house band" at the Bronx Zoo for over 25 years. Safari Bob is a third generation musician; one of his grandfathers founded the Westchester Symphony and his other grandfather was a ragtime/jazz piano band leader in the Roaring 20’s.
Safari Bob has worked with the architects of rock and roll, Chuck Berry, Carl Perkins, Dion and the Belmonts, The Drifters, The Coasters and so many icons. His only other songwriting partner was renowned Otis Blackwell, Elvis’s favorite tunesmith, creator of “Great Balls of Fire”, “Return to Sender” “All Shook Up” “Fever” and “Handy Man”.
Annie has studied privately voice, jazz and classical guitar, and flute and has honed herstage presence by studying acting in NYC. And she makes puppets come alive! Safari Bob attended Hamilton College and graduated with a double degree in Psychology and Urban Affairs and is a member of Mensa. Annie is an Ada Comstock graduate of Smith College 2016 and she is currently writing 5 books, simultaneously!
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.
Writing Through Grief
Bi-weekly 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 at 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
Vicinanza Studios & Gallery is thrilled to welcome back celebrated artist Bob Ferrucci for a hands-on 🎨 Tinting Workshop — an immersive experience crafted for artists of all levels who are eager to explore the subtle magic of color and layering. ✨
Known for his exceptional technique, thoughtful instruction, and deep passion for the arts 🎭, Bob offers participants the rare chance to learn directly from a master whose work beautifully balances softness and strength through the art of tinting.
During this engaging workshop, attendees will:
✅ Learn foundational and advanced tinting techniques
✅ Explore color relationships and how to build depth 🎨
✅ Create mood and atmosphere through delicate layering ☁️
✅ Receive personalized feedback in an intimate setting 🖌️
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.
💡 Space is limited — don't miss this exciting opportunity to learn, create, and be inspired alongside fellow artists in the warm and welcoming environment of Vicinanza Studios & Gallery.
Tinting Workshop with Bob Ferrucci
Vicinanza Studios & Gallery is thrilled to welcome back celebrated artist Bob Ferrucci for a hands-on 🎨 Tinting Workshop — an immersive experience crafted for artists of all levels who are eager to explore the subtle magic of color and layering. ✨
Known for his exceptional technique, thoughtful instruction, and deep passion for the arts 🎭, Bob offers participants the rare chance to learn directly from a master whose work beautifully balances softness and strength through the art of tinting.
During this engaging workshop, attendees will:
✅ Learn foundational and advanced tinting techniques
✅ Explore color relationships and how to build depth 🎨
✅ Create mood and atmosphere through delicate layering ☁️
✅ Receive personalized feedback in an intimate setting 🖌️
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.
💡 Space is limited — don't miss this exciting opportunity to learn, create, and be inspired alongside fellow artists in the warm and welcoming environment of Vicinanza Studios & Gallery.
Paint and Sip with Kelly Keenan
About Kelly Keenan:
Kelly Keenan is a painter and potter based in Southbury, Connecticut, whose artwork reflects her deep love of nature. Inspired by her time spent gardening and observing the natural world, she incorporates themes of plants, animals, and seasonal landscapes into both her ceramics and paintings. She teaches a range of art classes, including introductory landscape and still life painting, as well as ceramic hand-building, wheel-throwing, and glazing. Additionally, she has spent over two decades in fine arts exhibition management and currently serves as Director of Art Services for a NY/CT fine arts foundation. Kelly is also the President of the Southbury Arts and Culture Alliance, where she champions creative initiatives and community engagement through the arts.
About Kelly: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kelly-keenan-84934a13/
The Paint and Sip:
Join us for a fun and relaxing 2-hour guided painting class led by local artist Kelly Keenan on Saturday, June 28th. No experience needed—just bring your creativity! All materials and step-by-step instruction are provided. Come sip, paint, and enjoy an afternoon of art.
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.
Tinting Workshop with Bob Ferrucci
Vicinanza Studios & Gallery is thrilled to welcome back celebrated artist Bob Ferrucci for a hands-on 🎨 Tinting Workshop — an immersive experience crafted for artists of all levels who are eager to explore the subtle magic of color and layering. ✨
Known for his exceptional technique, thoughtful instruction, and deep passion for the arts 🎭, Bob offers participants the rare chance to learn directly from a master whose work beautifully balances softness and strength through the art of tinting.
During this engaging workshop, attendees will:
✅ Learn foundational and advanced tinting techniques
✅ Explore color relationships and how to build depth 🎨
✅ Create mood and atmosphere through delicate layering ☁️
✅ Receive personalized feedback in an intimate setting 🖌️
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.
💡 Space is limited — don't miss this exciting opportunity to learn, create, and be inspired alongside fellow artists in the warm and welcoming environment of Vicinanza Studios & Gallery.
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.
Writing Through Grief
Bi-weekly 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)
VSG’s Second Sunday Poetry and Music
First Thursday’s is now Second Sundays
Featuring poet, musician, artist Mar Walker and poet / musician John Jeffrey.
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.
SNOW DATE: July 20th
Free and open to the public (Suggested Donation)
Writing Through Grief
Bi-weekly 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)
VSG’s Second Sunday Poetry and Music
First Thursday’s is now Second Sundays
Featuring poet, musician, artist Mar Walker and poet / musician John Jeffrey.
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.
SNOW DATE: August 17th
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.
Heritage Village Annual Exhibit
You're Invited to the Annual Art Exhibition at Heritage Village!
Heritage Village is proud to announce the Annual Art Exhibition, showcasing the incredible talents of three of our vibrant local clubs: the Brush and Pencil Club, the Clay Club, and the Stained-Glass Club. This event promises to offer an unforgettable art gallery experience for art lovers of all kinds!
Event Details:
Join us as friends and neighbors come together to display a wide array of artworks, including stunning creations made on-site by the talented members of the Clay and Stained-Glass Clubs.
The celebration begins on Friday night at 5 PM with a special gala featuring delicious finger foods and live piano music. We invite you to share in the joy and excitement of the local art scene!
Throughout the weekend, be sure to stop by the foyer to purchase raffle tickets for a chance to win artworks donated by Heritage Village artists from each of the represented clubs. You don’t want to miss out on this wonderful opportunity to bring home a unique piece of art!
Saturday's Special Event:
A local artist from Southbury will demonstrate their skill in oil painting, and the completed piece will be raffled off to one lucky ticket holder. The raffle drawing will take place on Sunday, and you do not need to be present to win.
Event Hours:
Friday: 5:00 PM – 7:00 PM (Gala)
Saturday: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Sunday: 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM
This event is FREE and open to all! Whether you’re a seasoned art enthusiast or simply looking for a fun weekend activity, this exhibition is sure to captivate your imagination. Bring your friends who share your love for art and join us in celebrating the incredible artistic spirit of Heritage Village.
For more information, please contact Connie Adamski at connie.adamski@gmail.com. We look forward to seeing you there!
###
Contact Information:
Connie Adamski
Email: connie.adamski@gmail.com
Writing Through Grief
Bi-weekly 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)
Frame It Yourself
Frame It Yourself Demonstration with Faith Vicinanza
Ever wanted to frame your artwork but felt overwhelmed by the cost or process? Join us for a 1 hour demonstration where you’ll learn how to frame your own artwork like a pro—without breaking the bank!
Whether you’re an artist, a collector, or just someone looking to give your space a personal touch, this demonstration is perfect for anyone who loves creativity and smart solutions.
Register for the lecture here!
Frame It Yourself 1-on-1 Workshop (Contact Faith to make arrangements)
Bring your favorite piece of artwork (or a print) and walk away with a beautifully framed masterpiece, ready to hang and admire!
Space is limited, so reserve your spot today and take the first step toward transforming your art into a stunning display.
Let’s create something beautiful—together!
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.
Acrylic Pour
Acrylic Pour with Faith Vicinanza
Two canvases, two techniques.
Acrylic Paint Pouring is a fluid painting technique used to create art by pouring acrylic paint onto a canvas. Many methods can be used to apply the paint to the canvas, some are more simple and are better for beginners – others are a bit more technical!
$50 (10 Person Limit) - all supplies provided
Karaoke at 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!
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.
Beginner and Intermediate Dot Painting Workshop
Beginner and Intermediate dot painting workshop, supplies included. Intermediate work will be encouraged and instruction provided if you have basic dotting experience or you came to our first beginner’s class.
Writing Through Grief
Bi-weekly 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)
VSG’s Second Sunday Poetry and Music
First Thursday’s is now Second Sundays
Featuring poets Charles Rafferty and Barb Jennes.
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.
Barb Jennes, Ridgefield’s poet laureate emerita, channels life’s trials into powerful poetry. Her collection, Blinded Birds, delves into multigenerational struggles with depression and addiction. Drawing from personal experiences, Jennes shares raw, honest verses that resonate with readers, providing solace and hope. Her work not only exposes the impact of hereditary predispositions but also touches on nature and her sister’s battle with aphasia. Barb’s resilience shines through, inspiring those grappling with similar challenges.
Charles Rafferty is an American poet. In 2009 he received a fellowship from the National Endowment for the Arts.[1] His poetry has appeared in The New Yorker, O: Oprah Magazine, Prairie Schooner, and Ploughshares, among other magazines, websites, and anthologies.[2] He co-directs Albertus Magnus College's MFA in Creative Writing program, and teaches at the Westport Writers’ Workshop.[3] As of 2021, he lives in Sandy Hook, Connecticut.[3] Rafferty had aspired to being a poet since high school.[4] He began writing fiction around his late forties.[4] He views himself as someone who "primarily...writes impressionistic, associative prose poems."[4]
Free and open to the public (Free Will Offering)
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.