Artist's Evolution Speaker Series builds supportive arts community

NORWALK — The Norwalk Arts Center is a work in progress. The Artist's Evolution Speaker Series has inspired many to "embrace our metamorphosis, as it often leads to a surge in creativity in response to the sometimes unexpected and unwelcome changes we encounter." Artist's Evolution Speaker Series features area artists of all kinds sharing their inspirations and obstacles, their successes and failures, and their humble beginnings and future plans. A collaboration between Norwalk Arts Center and Artists' Open Studio, the series embodies a mutual goal: to foster a supportive community for area artists and to inspire individuals of all ages and abilities to express themselves through art. The series began with inaugural speaker, Tony Schaffer, in the Artists' Open Studio space. Other artists featured have included Cassie King Shella, Karen Opper-Rhoad and Sherri Nutter. Presentations have been informal and insightful, allowing for meaningful dialogue between artists and guests. New ideas have been shared and friendships formed. One common theme throughout all presentations is the idea that art involves a certain amount of risk and overcoming self-doubt. Art is inherently human, and to come together in community and celebrate the creative process is a beautiful thing. Artist's Evolution Speaker Series will continue throughout the year. If you would be interested in sharing your journey, email NorwalkArtsCenter@gmail.com. Community Arts Outreach Continues NAC's motto, Creating Art. Building Community, continues to play a significant part in the activities the Norwalk Arts Center offers regularly. Even during the pandemic, art project packets were made available to families to work on in the safety of their home. Volunteer opportunities have been provided to student groups seeking hours and partnerships with other local arts organizations continue to blossom. As the center continues to offer events and classes, the arts education team has developed age-specific groups to serve the community. If your child is looking for arts participation and/or volunteer opportunities, consider Norwalk Arts Center. Look for programming offered in each category under the events tab at NorwalkArtsCenter.org. Program names for 2021-2022 • Arts Explorers: Grades 1-4 • A.I.M. Program (Artists In the Making): Grades 5-8 • A.R.T. Club (Art Resources for Teens): Grades 9-12 • Discover Your NAC: Adult education opportunities • Artist's Evolution Speaker Series: Adult speaker series Save the date • Saturday: Ribfest and Bagging Day at Miller's • Sept 9: Monthly Bingo begins (2nd Thursday @ Milestone Event Center) • Sept 15: Artist's Evolution • Sept 29: Artist's Evolution • Oct 16: Arts Explorers: Grades 1-4 (10 a.m. to 2 p.m.) • Nov 13: A.R.T. Club: Mixed Media (Grades 9 to 12) • Nov 15: Fall Appeal Campaign Kickoff • Nov 19-21: Peter Pan Jr performances