Every year, the Bridgeport Art Trail hosts a city wide open studio event that’s absolutely phenomenal. This year was no exception: over 1,100 visitors came to the American Fabric Arts Building during our two-day Open Studio. We want to thank everyone who attended, as well as those of you who shared information about this event: lots of important community building happened because of you.

Local Art Lovers Raised Nearly $1,000 for the Bridgeport Rescue Mission
Many of the American Fabric Arts Buildings’ resident artists gave their artwork for a raffle, including Denyse Schmidt who contributed a beautiful custom quilt. All proceeds from the raffle go to Bridgeport Rescue Mission, which provides food and clothing to community residents in need. Together, we raised $947

Open Studios: Connecting Creators with Collectors
Amazing conversations happen during Open Studios. Bridgeport is blessed with a knowledgeable and vibrantly curious arts and crafts community: it was such a pleasure connecting with you all. A very nice mix of private and professional buyers attended, including museum directors and gallery owners.

A Good Time Was Had by All
WPKN, Aspetuck Brew Labs, Brewport, Source Coffee, and Snappy Dogs did a great job keeping
everyone entertained – the third floor was the place to be if you love music and craft beer! We’d like to give a special shout out to Westrock Development who went above and beyond to make sure the studios looked fantastic for all our visitors.

Already Looking Forward to Next Year!
We’d barely wished our final visitors a fond farewell before the artists, creators and makers started talking about what would make next year’s Open Studios even more special. You can be sure some real treats are in store. Until that time, you can keep up to date with everything that’s happening with the American Fabric Art Building’s artists by reading this blog or following us on Instagram.