Artists on the Rise is a collection of works made by high school students from the greater Danbury Area. We are appreciative that during this challenging year for our young artists the exhibition includes works from over ninety students in a wide range of media including, photography, ceramic, painting, drawing, and more. The inspiration for their works comes from their own experiences reflecting a diverse exploration of creative endeavors. This juried event provides young artists the opportunity to have their work shown to the public in a professional environment. Awards are given across media and for best-in-show.
Brookfield Craft Center would like to thank the Savings Bank of Danbury, Mitchell Oil, and Kellie Martone for their generous sponsorship of the show and all of the volunteers that helped make this show a reality.
About the Jurors
Lisa Scroggins
Lisa attended the Rhode Island School of Design, and Parsons School of Design in New York City, graduating with a BFA in graphic design. She currently spends her week working at Silvermine Arts Center, teaching all areas of art to students K through 12th grade, and creating whimsical ceramics at her Connecticut studio.
Shannon Riley
Shannon has been a resident of Brookfield for 13 years. She earned her BFA Studio Art from The College of New Rochelle and a MS in Education from Western Connecticut State University. She has been teaching for 16 years at Brewster High School in Brewster, NY. She works in mixed media and currently serves as a member of the Brookfield Arts Commission.
Melissa Ralston-Jones
Melissa serves as a special appointment professor of Gallery Studies at Western Connecticut State University and has operated as the gallery curator since 2013. She received a BA in American History with a minor in museum studies from the State University of New York (SUNY) at Oswego and an MFA in Museum Studies from John Hopkins University She founded Gallery 46 in Vernon, Connecticut, served on the board of the Vernon Community Arts Center (now renamed Arts Center East), as assistant director and interim acting director, developing exhibition and educational programming.
A Message from the Executive Director
Welcome to Brookfield Craft Center’s Annual Student Art Exhibition – Artists on the Rise! Despite the difficulties of the past year, we remain committed to our mission: to preserve the skills of fine craftsmanship and to promote creativity and personal growth through craft education. This exhibition showcasing the works of local students, provides you the opportunity to see firsthand the imaginative, inspiring, and creative abilities of local youth.
I would like to thank the parents and the teachers for their leadership and inspiration for their children and students. They are the source of strength and persistence, especially in these times when social gatherings are limited.
Throughout these trying times, Brookfield Craft Center remains committed to providing our community with access to opportunities to express their own vision through our many classes, both on campus and virtually online. There are opportunities for all ages and skill levels. I invite you to check out our class schedule and explore firsthand your own creativity.