By Sarah Morgan
The Carriage Barn Arts Center is a hub of artistic expression and community engagement located in our own Waveny Park. As the spring season approaches, the center blossoms with many events that promise to captivate participants of all ages and interests.
Hilary Wittmann, the center’s executive director, shared insights into the organization’s evolution and pivotal role within the community with the New Canaan Sentinel. “Spring at the Carriage Barn heralds a season of vibrant cultural experiences and community engagement,” Hilary remarked. The organization has come a long way from its humble beginnings, transforming into a professional haven for artists and art enthusiasts. “We’ve evolved into not just a gallery space but a dynamic community center,” she added.
One highlight of the Carriage Barn’s spring calendar is the Farm-to-Barn Brunch on March 3rd. Guests will delight in live music by Henry Jones & Friends while savoring seasonal delights sourced from Connecticut’s local and sustainable farms. “The brunch is a great way to support our local farmers during their off-season and come together for a community meal,” Hilary expressed. From delectable charcuterie to Asian delicacies, the brunch offers a cornucopia of flavors and experiences, all in the historic ambiance of the Carriage Barn.
In the artistic realm, the Carriage Barn continues its tradition of nurturing local talent with the Through Our Eyes XII exhibition, showcasing the exceptional work of New Canaan High School students. The exhibition will run from March 15th to March 30th and will showcase the creativity and artistic ingenuity of New Canaan students. The Carriage Barn will host a special opening reception for the exhibit on March 14th, which will feature student musical performances and the presentation of the annual $1,000.00 scholarship award to one of the youth artists by the Carriage Barn Board of Directors.
Families are invited to partake in the Free Family Drop-in Series, a monthly event to introduce younger children to the wonders of art. On March 17th, families will be treated to a special visit from the Beardsley Zoo, promising an afternoon of laughter and learning.
Further into the season, the Carriage Barn invites guests to “Spring Into Summer Entertaining Fête” on April 11th. Hosted by All Sett Up and The Vintage Horse, this soirée allows guests to mingle with top event professionals while enjoying cocktails, hors d’oeuvres, and live music.
As Hilary reflected on the variety of offerings and experiences at the Carriage Barn, she emphasized the organization’s unwavering commitment to community and inclusivity. “The founders really wanted this to be a place for the whole community. Even though we’ve grown so much, we’re always thinking about how to make everything accessible to everyone,” she affirmed.
One of the main ways people can support the Carriage Barn and their organization is through its membership program. With annual fees starting at $75, members gain access to exclusive events, professional development opportunities, and a vibrant community of fellow art enthusiasts; “it’s a great way for people to support us and just be a little more closely connected to everything that we have going” Hilary explained.
With such a diverse array of events and programs, the Carriage Barn Arts Center continues to embody creativity and community spirit in New Canaan. To stay informed about upcoming events and initiatives, the Carriage Barn’s website, www.carriagebarn.org, serves as a valuable resource. Through its events calendar and email newsletters, the center ensures that patrons remain connected and engaged with its dynamic programming.
