A Retrospective: The Mesmerizing Dot Paintings of Ms. Vicinanza
Join us at Vicinanza Studios & Gallery for a special month-long exhibition showcasing the captivating artwork of our very own Ms. Vicinanza!
Ms. Vicinanza, the inaugural Poet Laureate for Southbury, Connecticut, is celebrated not only for her profound contributions to the literary world but also for her unique and "mesmerizing" dot paintings. While many know her as a distinguished poet, former editor for literary magazines, founder of the Connecticut Poetry Festival, and a competitive slam poet who has graced stages from Sweden to San Francisco, her artistic talents extend beautifully to the visual realm.
This retrospective exhibition offers a rare opportunity to experience Ms. Vicinanza's vibrant and intricate dot paintings, a collection that promises to draw you in with its stunning detail and depth. Beyond her impressive artistic endeavors, Ms. Vicinanza leads poetry and publishing workshops, works full-time as a cybersecurity professional, and somehow still finds time to dance!
The show officially opens on July 1st, with a special reception on Friday, July 11th. Come and immerse yourself in the mesmerizing world of Ms. Vicinanza's art.
We can't wait to share this incredible collection with you!
VSG’s Second Sunday Poetry and Music
Featuring poets Christiane Jacox and Irene Sherlock
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.
Christiane Jacox’s first book (and only) of poetry, Bears Dancing in the Northern Air, received the Yale Younger Poets Prize in 1990. Eastern Washington University published her translation of Gabriela Mistral’s Poems de las Madres, in 1996. In the intervening years, a few translations and poems made their slow way into journals including Poetry, Prairie Schooner, Water Stone Review, and The New Millennium. Having retired from teaching at Hopkins School, and launched her three children, she has returned to writing more regularly. She recently received a Connecticut State Arts Commission grant and completed a residency at UCross in Wyoming.
Irene Sherlock is a dual-licensed marriage and family therapist and alcohol and drug counselor who lives and practices in Connecticut. She holds an MFA in Creative Writing from Goddard College. Her poems, essays and short stories have been published in Chautauqua Literary Journal, Connecticut Review, Dos Passos Review, Intima, Poet Lore, Runes, The New York Times, as well as many other journals and several anthologies. A chapbook of her poems, Equinox, was published by Finishing Line Press. She is grateful to Faith Vicinanza for her dedication to the arts--particularly poetry--and attends Sunday Writes at Vicinanza Studios whenever her schedule allows.
Free and open to the public (Suggested Donation)
Book Launch for "Grief Like Yours Anthology"
Contact:
Cindy Eastman - host
860-417-2023
Book Launch for Grief Like Yours Anthology at Vicinanza Studios & Gallery
An Afternoon of Reflection, Resilience, and Creative Expression
Vicinanza Studios & Gallery is proud to host the official book launch of Grief Like Yours, a powerful new anthology exploring the many faces of loss and healing.
Grief Like Yours brings together voices from across the country—poets, essayists, and storytellers—sharing deeply personal reflections on loss, love, and the enduring human spirit. This compelling collection gives space to the universality of grief while honoring the uniqueness of each story.
The launch event will feature live readings by contributing authors, a Q&A session, and an opportunity to purchase signed copies of the book. Guests will also enjoy a curated gallery exhibition that complements the themes of the anthology.
This event is free and open to the public. Light refreshments will be served. Donations to the Gallery will be accepted.
For more information or to RSVP, please contact Cindy Eastman at mywritual@gmail.com or visit https://vicinanza-studios.com/
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)
Acrylic Pour Workshop
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
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: August 17th
Free and open to the public (Suggested Donation)
Artist Reception
Diana Windham
Having developed a love of music through the study of piano and violin, in Idaho, where she was born, Diana attended Oberlin College, in Oberlin Ohio majoring in English. In her first drawing class, under the instructor, Forbes Whiteside, she discovered the spaces between forms, which piqued her visual curiosity. The ability to make something visible, never before seen by anyone else, gave her an inner identification that was life changing. While music remained invaluable as a major part of her life, making the object of art became her focus, bringing her into a world that felt more of her own and less programmed by environment.
Bill Gramigna
Southbury artist Bill Gramigna, previous co-owner of the SoNo Sidewalk Gallery and Press Proof Studio in Norwalk, brings his color saturated original art indicative of retro art posters to VSG.
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)
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.
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)
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.
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)
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, 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)
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.
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)
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, 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)
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.
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, 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)
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.
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:
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 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 evening of art.
Register for the Paint and Sip here!
Paint and Sip Registration
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.
Register for all three days here!
Tinting Workshop Registration
Karaoke at the Gallery
Join us at Vicinanza Studios & 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 4th 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)
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.
Make Music Day Southbury 2025 at the Gallery
Make Music Day will return to Connecticut on Saturday, June 21st, 2025! This statewide event, coordinated by the Connecticut Office of the Arts, invites musicians of all kinds to perform free concerts in public spaces across the state, from the Long Island Sound to the northern hills. Everyone is welcome to participate and enjoy a diverse day of music-making.
Vicinanza Studios is thrilled to be a part of Make Music Day! Join us at the studio from 5 PM to 6 PM to enjoy a captivating performance by pianist Ron Dukenski. You are invited to come to the gallery to write while listening to the beautiful music, or simply relax, listen, and enjoy the art on display.
Ron Dukenski is a keyboardist, singer and composer who has participated in many musical and theatrical happenings at Heritage Village over the past 10 years.
Although his career was in Organization Development, with clients around the world, his first love has always been music.
He was composer-in-residence for the Connecticut Choral Society for 10 years.
He has served as organist-choirmaster for numerous churches in the area and has written sacred music for several of them.
He currently is a member of the New Haven Chorale with his wonderful fiancée Beverly.
He enjoys soulful improvisation on the piano and loves to make stuff up as he performs.
He is happy to share Make Music Day here in Southbury with live piano music at VSG.
Please feel free to bring your own alcoholic beverages if you wish, as they cannot be served at the gallery.
For more information on the broader event, visit the Make Music Day Connecticut website.
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!