WCSU and the Cultural Alliance of Western Connecticut partner to showcase young artists

High school-age artists from across Connecticut are invited to submit their work for a Student Art Showcase, with selections exhibited at the Western Connecticut State University Art Gallery.

The Cultural Alliance of Western Connecticut is collaborating with WCSU for this new art initiative.

“We wanted to do a collaboration that would be important to the state and support young artists,” said Cultural Alliance Executive Director Lisa Scails. “WCSU is a strong community partner and provides one of the most beautiful venues in Connecticut with a long history of artistic excellence in education.”

Brian Vernon, dean of the WCSU School of Visual and Performing Arts, said he has long wanted to work with the Cultural Alliance on a community-building project.

“Engaging young artists and giving them an opportunity to show their work in a professional gallery is a smart way to reach out to the community and use our space,” Vernon said. “The university will welcome the artists, their families and all residents to the gallery opening and exhibit.”

Further support is provided by Support provided by Savings Bank of Danbury, BeFoundation, and Spread Music Now. The application form, along with guidelines, is live at on the Cultural Alliance website, cawct.org, and all students in grades 9 through 12 may enter in several categories. The deadline to submit an application is Feb. 29, and the show will be held in the WCSU Visual and Performing Arts Center from May 18 to June 7.

All guidelines can be found on the Cultural Alliance website at https://cawct.org/collaboration/2023-student-art-show/.