Under bright sunshine and crisp autumn skies, the Aldrich Contemporary Art Museum celebrated the unveiling of its newly renovated Sculpture Garden with a ribbon-cutting ceremony on Friday, November 15. Community members, government officials, and supporters gathered to honor this milestone, marking a significant step forward for the Museum’s mission to foster art and accessibility.
Guests began the morning inside the museum, enjoying hot coffee and a continental breakfast provided by Ross Artisanal Bakery & Café, before transitioning to the beautifully redesigned Eric G. Diefenbach and James Keith Brown Courtyard. Executive Director Cybele Maylone welcomed attendees and expressed gratitude to the individuals and organizations that made the project possible, including Board Chair Diana Bowes, Chair Eric Diefenbach, the Town of Ridgefield, and the State of Connecticut.
Maylone recounted the journey from the groundbreaking in February to the completion of the garden less than a year later. The renovation, funded in part by the State of Connecticut’s Good to Great and Urban Act grants, along with significant contributions from private donors such as the Anne S. Richardson Fund and the Leir Foundation, represents a commitment to accessibility, environmental sustainability, and community engagement.
The revamped Sculpture Garden includes a fully ADA-compliant route from Main Street, an amphitheater for events, native plantings, and expanded areas for public art. By increasing the available space for sculptures and visitors alike, the garden positions the museum as a more inclusive and dynamic hub for the arts.
Key speakers and champions of the project, including First Selectperson Rudy Marconi, State Senators Julie Kushner, Ceci Maher and Representative Aimee Berger Girvalo emphasized the transformative power of the arts in uniting communities and enriching lives. Ridgefield’s designation as Connecticut’s first Cultural District underscores its dedication to fostering creative expression and accessibility for all.
The newly reimagined Sculpture Garden is a testament to the museum’s vision of connecting art, nature, and community. With its thoughtful design and expanded opportunities for programming, it promises to serve as a vibrant space for cultural engagement for years to come.
The festivities continue on Sunday, November 17, with Community Day at The Aldrich. Visitors can enjoy free admission, tour of the new exhibition, and a garden walkthrough with landscape designer Abby Fuller. Families can participate in drop-in workshops and storytime inspired by artist Martha Diamond, while Ross Artisanal Bakery & Café will offer refreshments from their pop-up shop. Learn more: https://thealdrich.org/events/community-day