Creativity Connects Darien
What fuels a vibrant, connected, and creative community? What makes people feel good about living in Darien?
When locals share the creativity that they uncover in the nooks and crannies of their community it brings about connectivity and makes us all feel good. Believe it or not, you discover creativity every day as you walk, shop, work, and play in Darien.
Creativity connects us.
Meet Amanda L. Goodman Head of User Experience at Darien Library.
How does creativity connect you to Darien?
One of my favorite things has been seeing the talent shows, theater performances, and art shows hosted at Darien Library. It's an opportunity to see some great creativity here in the community. The talent shows have featured the innumerable talents of students. The Catherine Lindsey Workshops is a two-fold opportunity for both playwrights and actors to tell their stories and see them on stage for a live audience. Finally, the year-round art show gives display space for solo artists as well as pieces from the schools for students and faculty alike. There's so much creative talent in Darien, across all mediums. I feel very lucky to have this "ringside seat" here at the Library.
Is there a person or organization using creativity to provoke change in Darien?
In July, Armel Jacobs and Diane Urban organized a Children's Art Walk for Inclusivity. Local children displayed their art on a path between Darien Library and Town Hall. The artwork was centered around the theme of "celebrating our differences." People who attended were encouraged to use the walk as an opportunity to talk about race, diversity, inclusion, and bias. It was a creative way to bring people together to discuss those issues.
Any place in town where you go for inspiration and creativity?
Tilley Pond Park is a great place to walk and relax, especially this time of year. The colorful leaves are reflected to their best advantage in the water. Then in the spring, you have the swallows' nests (I think) in the building there. The birds are quite protective of their abode, but if you peek in you can sometimes hear or see the little birds. Having time to go enjoy nature helps reset the day and gets you back on your creative beat.
Is there an organization in town that makes you feel good?
Well, there's so many to choose from! I appreciate the local media outlets and blogs for helping to keep us informed of what's happening in Town. You can get a real sense of community reading about what's going on, what people's interests are, and how we're coming together in these times.
Finish this sentence: When I think of creativity in town I think of …
When I think of creativity in town, I think of The Artists at Grove Street Plaza outdoor art fair. The setting is beautiful there with the fountain and you get to see some of the best art created by local artists. It's such an enjoyable event and hopefully, it will be in-person next year.
Creativity Connects Darien is made possible by LIFEWTR.
The views and opinions expressed above are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of HamletHub or LIFEWTR.