8 Incredible Pieces of Local Art Visible All Over Downtown Danbury

You don't have to go to New York City to check out some great art. Thanks to the Cultural Alliance of Western CT, many downtown venues and businesses are showcasing the works of some talented local artists. It's a year long series called "Accessible Art," with the first round of exhibitions on display through April 13. All locations are in Danbury with the exception of the Bethel Public Library.

The works of Southbury's Clarice Azzoni are on Display at Pour Me Coffee and Wine Cafe, 274 Main Street.

When I draw or paint, I love to enjoy the process without worrying about the outcome," says Clarice.  "Sometimes it works...sometimes it doesn't.  But the process always makes me feel alive.

Bethel's Betsy Davidson is showcased at Filosa/ Hancock Hall at 31 Staples Street.

I welcome serendipitous moments and appreciate when they occur," says Betsy. "I strive to be present in the making and then to choose carefully what ultimately remains. My work can be viewed as an outward expression of an internal dialogue with form.

Brookfield photographer Colin Harrison's work is up at the Hodge Insurance Agency at 283 Main Street.

Scenes that call out to me and people with whom I can strike a resonance are moments that expose truths that need to be preserved," he notes, adding "and having a camera on hand as well."

Sherman's Mary Jane Magoon's works can be seen at Mothership Bakery and Cafe 331 Main Street.

I am especially fascinated by the effects of light and the shadows that it creates, she comments. "Reflected glass and windows are some of my favorite subjects to paint. The transparency and luminosity of watercolor affords reflections to be even more luscious.

The Bethel Public Library on Greenwood Avenue in Bethel is highlighting Shelton's Jan McClean. She says,

I offer the viewer playful but also profound insights into the essence of humanness and of Life itself. I am a storyteller. Whether the motifs are houses, trees, critters or something more abstract, my work is always a narrative. Houses carry on conversations. Trees dance. Fish teem in cosmic seas. The story may not always be evident, but it is inevitable.

The photography of Danbury's Keith Jay Raphael can be seen at Danbury City Hall, 155 Deer Hill Avenue. He says,

I find that abstraction feeds my imagination, creativity, and alternative thinking. There is no greater artistic satisfaction for me than to produce an image that speaks to my diverse interests in art, nature, and humanity. Each time this happens, the wonderment of my inner child is triggered and I am elated.

Danbury artist Wing Na "Wendy" Wong's work can be viewed at the CityCenter Danbury offices, 268 Main Street.

I love the fusion of practical projects with the creative process," she passionately shares.

Finally, Redding's George Zipparo's work is on exhibit at YMCA's Escape to the Arts at 293 Main Street.

My work is my statement, George declares.

This is the first of five rounds of exhibitions that will be spread out throughout the year. Viewing hours vary by venue, so please call ahead. For more information, check out the Cultural Alliance's website.

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