Art show, sale to benefit local arts center

By Deborah Rose

What began as a generous donation of art supplies to a New Milford arts center has grown into a gift that will sustain the legacy of one artist and foster creative expression for aspiring artists.

The Village Center for the Arts will open an exhibit and sale of 76 works by the late Connie Aronson, of Morris, Saturday, April 6, with a reception from 6 to 8:30 p.m.

Proceeds from the sale of art will benefit a newly established VCA scholarship named in Aronson’s memory.

The VCA is a space that encourages “artistic creativity and development through educational fine art programs and events for all ages,” according to its mission.

It offers classes, workshops, summer, open studio and more.

“The fact that people will buy her paintings and hang them would make her smile,” Peter Aronson, son of the artist, said of how he thinks his mother would feel about VCA’s coordination of the show.

“And she would be happy to know funds will help people,” Peter said of the new scholarship.

The scholarship is off to a good start, according to Peter, who said a lifelong friend who thought of Connie as a second mother has already committed to donate $5,000 to it.

“I was really touched by that,” he said of his friend’s donation.

On top of that, Jayson Roberts, executive director of the VCA, said he has already received word from several individuals of their interest in some of the art.

About 30 pieces will be hung at the VCA’s gallery. In addition, pieces will be displayed on easels throughout the center, Roberts said.

The show will run through the month of April.

The VCA also created a flipbook showcasing Connie’s art so people can view it online as well as at the 12 Main St. arts center.

Roberts said he is impressed with how far news of the show and the establishment of the scholarship are reaching.

“People are looking at this book from all over the country,” an enthusiastic Roberts relayed. “I didn’t expect that but I’m so excited.”

Connie, a longtime resident of Litchfield County and New York City, began painting in her teens and, in time, became respected artist. She died at age 91 in 2020.

She excelled in using bright colors in her art, expressing herself through oils, gouache, acrylics, and canvas.

“She was not only a wonderful painter, but she learned furniture design….how to paint furniture,” Peter said.

To that end, framing became an essential aspect of her work, with each frame meticulously painted.

Aronson painted an assortment of themes, but Impressionistic images, inspired by her travels to Europe, was among a common theme.

She exhibited in solo and group shows in Connecticut, throughout New England, and internationally. Her paintings are in collections across the globe.

Roberts expressed sincere gratitude to the Aronson family for their donation of art supplies and the artwork.

“The unbelievable amount of art supplies the (Aronson family) gave us is priceless,” Roberts said.

Hundreds of art books, easels, stools, watercolor blocks, specialty papers, a sewing machine, brushes, and other art supplies were donated to the nonprofit arts center a few years ago when Peter contacted the VCA to ask if it was interested.

In addition to the supplies, the remainder of original artwork was donated to the center.

“I think she would be proud that her supplies and art and were going to a good cause,” Peter said.

“It’s a testament that our longevity and devotion has made an impact on the community, not just local community” but beyond, Roberts said.