Artful Visual Arts Initiative, a newly founded nonprofit 501c (3) organization will bring together sponsors, artists, and community members to celebrate the culmination of their first community wide art project and to raise money for ROAR, Ridgefield Guild of Artists, and Artful Visual Arts Initiative. The focus of the event will be the finale of the silent online auction that launched in June and feature the brightly painted BOW WOW ART DOGS that have been on display throughout the town. All dogs will be displayed at the event and be eligible to receive final bids before they find a permanent home.
“I never imagined the level of engagement and support we would have from a first-time community art project,” says Artful founder and president of the board, Dee Dee Colabella. “The dogs have been a great way for people to enjoy downtown, connect with one another, and appreciate art all summer long. We hope the success of our fundraiser will show the powerful and innovative ways visual art can impact our surroundings. Especially after being named the first cultural district in CT, Ridgefield needs to continue to lead the way by supporting artists to do the important work that they do to make the world a better place. Artful Visual Arts Initiative embodies that mission.”
In addition to the colorful display of the BOW WOW ART DOGS, the event will feature a jazz trio sourced from Ridgefield Symphony Orchestra, with surprise Broadway actor emcee, as well as catering from Hayfield’s Market.
To buy tickets, register to bid, or donate, visit artfulgives.org/publicevents. Tickets to the event are $50 per person. For more information call: 203-894-5609.
An Additional Upcoming Event
Dog Day of Summer Kid’s Scavenger Hunt: Saturday September 18th 12-5pm, Downtown Ridgefield
For Kids-Artful Bow Wow Art Dog fun! Pick up a guide at the RPAC Gallery, located at 410 Main Street, to see the list of downtown merchants who have secretly hidden 10 decorated dachshunds. At your pace, find Disco Dog, Pretty in Pink, FallGuy Dog, and more and collect a stamp at each hiding spot. Then, once complete, return to RPAC Gallery to get a prize! Geared towards kids 5 and up.
About Artful Visual Arts Initiative
Artful Visual Arts Initiative is a 501c (3) organization that supports aspiring and working artists through scholarships, resident artist programs, and community art projects. In addition, Artful strives to leverage artistic innovation and collaboration to benefit local and national organizations.
