Fairfield Arts Commission Invites Young Artists To Take Part In 1st Annual Artistic Visions Challenge

Opportunity to Meet & Brainstorm with Artist Professionals at Collaboration Station Event on January 16th

The Fairfield Arts Commission invites all aspiring young artists to participate in its first annual Artistic Visions Challenge and to attend a free open house event on Thursday, January 16th, to learn more and to brainstorm ideas with fellow artist professionals. 

The Artistic Visions Challenge is a town-wide juried art competition aimed at encouraging young artists to create art in new and unique ways.  The competition is open to all young people, ages 11-18, that either reside or attend school in Fairfield.   

The theme of this year’s Challenge, which was unveiled at the December 5th Kick-Off meeting, is to create a work of art that makes a statement about the Town of Fairfield’s history.  In addition to the theme, artists will also be expected to incorporate in their artwork the letters “F-A-I-R-F-I-E-L-D” and at least one “Easter Egg”—a hidden message or reference to engage viewers.

Those interested in taking part in the Challenge are encouraged to attend a free open house, the “Collaboration Station”, on Thursday, January 16th, from 6-8PM in the Warehouse at the Fairfield Theatre Company.   Attendees will have an opportunity to ask questions about this year’s challenge as well as meet and brainstorm ideas with over thirty professional artists in a variety of disciplines.  Refreshments will be provided.  The event is free to attend, though advance registration is requested.  All participants are asked to indicate their attendance plans by registering here.

“Having an inquiry-based, collaborative learning experience, like the Artistic Visions Challenge, not only builds a connection between our youth and the art community but also stimulates, fosters, and encourages both critical thinking and originality in all its participants,” said Commissioner Sam Goldstein of the Fairfield Arts Commission, who conceived the Challenge. He continues, “Thinking critically and with originality, empowers a person… it can help them navigate challenges, ask meaningful questions, and make better decisions.” 

Eligibility & Entry Details:

The Challenge is open to all aspiring young artists, ages 11-18, who either reside or attend school in Fairfield

·         Entries are divided into two age categories: 11-14 and 15-18. Students may also work in teams of up to three people.  Cash prizes will be awarded in each category.

·         All participants must register by January 31st, and have a parental or guardian co-sign as project supervisor to oversee and support the process.

·         Participants will be required to include an artist statement as part of their final submission to describe their artwork and the process by which it was made, as well as a digital representation of the final submission for public viewing. 

·         All entries must be submitted by March 1, 2024.

The Commission encourages participants to push their creative limits, whether through a unique technique or by a mash-up of traditional art forms to create something new.  Additional information can be found at www.fairfieldct.org/artchallenge .

Individuals or businesses that have a passion for the arts and may be interested in sponsorship opportunities should contact the Fairfield Arts Commission at (203) 256-3120 or arts@fairfieldct.org for more information.

About the Fairfield Arts Commission

The Fairfield Arts Commission is an official body of the Town of Fairfield, comprised of nine volunteers appointed by the First Selectman.  The purpose of the Fairfield Arts Commission is to stimulate, foster, facilitate and encourage the development and appreciation of artistic and cultural activities within the Town of Fairfield.  Following their appointment in 2023, the members have been working toward achieving statewide recognition of a cultural district in Fairfield.