Bridgeport Art Trail 2026 Schedule
Event Highlights at a Glance
Thursday, November 5th
THURSDAY BAT NIGHT KICKOFF
“It’s like an artists’ home company party.” Mingle and meander. The BAT city-wide celebration starts downtown at four arts venues! View art and socialize with the creative community. See new art and popular favorites.
5pm - 7pm
Art Party & Curator-Led Tours at Housatonic Museum of Art #8
Burt Chernow Galleries and Lafayette Hall Atrium
As a kick-off to the Bridgeport Art Trail, visit the Housatonic Museum of Art for an inspiring evening full of art, food, and drinks! Enjoy curator-led tours highlighting F. Luis Mora’s artistic practice through never-before-seen preparatory drawings coupled with their finished compositions.
5:30pm - 7:30pm
Opening Reception for Now Is the Time Art Exhibit at City Lights Gallery #22
View a variety of visual expressions, mediums, and materials, from metal and fiber to works on paper. Highlights include an illustration by artist/poet Shanna Melton, a contemplative photography series by Joan Fitzsimmons, and “Renewal 1,000,000 A.D.” by Joseph Fekieta. This absurd installation depicts a time far into the future when decayed plastic has finally returned to carbon, renewing life itself.
5pm - 9pm
Vinyl Selections by Bilal Lopez at Berlinetta #25
Producer Bilal Lopez selects hip hop, RnB, and electronic vinyl on the sound system.
5:30pm - 9:30pm
GLOW Wild Lantern Festival at CT’s Beardsley Zoo #34
GLOW Wild invites guests to stroll through glowing pathways surrounded by brilliant displays of animals, nature, and vibrant colors. Journey through a breathtaking wonderland of illuminated larger-than-life lanterns! Whether it's a family tradition, date night, or an evening with friends or coworkers, GLOW Wild offers an experience that appeals to guests of all ages.
6pm - 10pm
Opening Reception for WTF Exhibit by Dan Makara at URSA Gallery #19
WTF is a shockingly unforgettable installation of paintings, constructions embellished with neon, lenticulars, found objects, drenched with social commentary. There will be something to upset everyone. The title of this show was inspired by a motif designed by Rita Valley, embroidered on T-shirts and incorporated in her fiber art. The text slang expletive “WTF” expresses the sentiment, “What is going on in America today?”
6pm - 10pm
Kick-Off Party - Artists Choose Artists Exhibition at Read’s Artspace #11
Join us as we celebrate the opening night of the Bridgeport Art Trail with an exhibit featuring resident artists at Read’s as well as guest artists of their choice. The spacious Ground Floor Gallery will provide the backdrop for artworks as varied and unique as the artists who created them.
Friday, November 7th
8:45am - 5pm
Framemakers Picture Framing & Art Gallery #33
In “American Landscape Series - Bucks County, Delaware Gap, Berkshire Corridor,” Herm Freeman’s works will remind you of Cezanne and Soutine in beautiful vibrant colors and soft pastels.
10am - 4pm
Maggie Daly Arts Cooperative #12 Open
MDAC is a magical and unique space for artists with intellectual disabilities, adding to the cultural fabric of Bridgeport and celebrating the universal language of art. At MDAC, opportunities abound for artists to experience varied media and approaches to artmaking.
6am - 5pm
Harborview Market #32 Open
View local art while treating yourself to a fresh and delicious homemade-style breakfast or lunch, gourmet coffee, freshly baked croissants, cookies and muffins. Owned by the Torres family since 1993, the neighborhood eatery is the family-friendly hub of Black Rock.
8:30am - 7pm
Housatonic Museum of Art #8
View the museum’s vast permanent collection and explore two remarkable exhibits: “Making His Mark in Connecticut: The Creative Process of F. Luis Mora” and “Poli’s Palace & Majestic Theaters Memories Project.”
11am - 6pm
Kindred Thoughts Bookstore #21b Open
Proudly located downtown in the historic Arcade Mall in Bridgeport, CT, Kindred Thoughts Bookstore is an independent bookstore that is 100% Black-owned and 50% woman, and 50% veteran-owned, by Karin Smith and Derek Tompkins.
12 - 5pm
On view: “Now Is the Time” Art Exhibit at City Lights Gallery #22
20 artists interpret this provocative theme, presenting art that reacts to the times and issues of their choosing or the actual condition and our contemporary relationship with time. Among the inspirations is the quote, “There is no time for despair, no place for self-pity, no need for silence, no room for fear… This is precisely the time when artists go to work. That is how civilizations heal.” (Paraphrased from Toni Morrison.)
2:00 pm
Opening Reception for PREview: William Kent / Afterlife at MNTD Studios #2
In response to the sculpture and print work of William Kent (1919-2012), living artists are inspired to create artwork in response, presenting the work of a notoriously reclusive artist with fellow creatives. States + Prints, a traveling show from Ball and Socket ArtSpace curated by Avery Jennings for the William Kent Art Foundation, will also be on view. A percentage of proceeds goes towards the Elder Art Fund, a William Kent initiative.
5pm
Will Diaz of Pangea Selects in the Taproom at Berlinetta #25
DJ and musician Will Diaz aka DJ RareBear selects upbeat global vinyl, soul, and hip hop vinyl.
5pm - 7pm
Happy Hour at the Bridgeport Pride Center #24
Enjoy complimentary bites and refreshments in a lively, welcoming atmosphere during this happy hour gathering. All are welcome to attend and be part of this vibrant celebration of art and community. We look forward to seeing you there!
12pm - 6pm
WTF Exhibit by Dan Makara at URSA Gallery #19
WTF is a shockingly unforgettable installation of paintings and constructions embellished with neon, lenticulars, found objects, drenched with social commentary. There will be something to upset everyone. The title of this show was inspired by a motif designed by Rita Valley, embroidered on T-shirts and incorporated in her fiber art. The text slang expletive “WTF” expresses the sentiment .... What is going on in America today?
12pm - 7pm
dertbag #22e
Visit the atelier, a retail and studio space for the brand dertbag by artist Philip Post. He has shown his work in Tokyo, Vienna, NYC and LA.
5:30pm - 9:30pm
GLOW Wild Lantern Festival at CT’s Beardsley Zoo #34
GLOW Wild invites guests to stroll through glowing pathways surrounded by brilliant displays of animals, nature, and vibrant colors. Journey through a breathtaking wonderland of illuminated larger-than-life lanterns! Whether it's a family tradition, date night, or an evening with friends or coworkers, GLOW Wild offers an experience that appeals to guests of all ages.
6pm
Candlelight Concerts: Best of Joe Hisaishi at the Bijou Theatre #18
Rediscover the moving soundscapes of Joe Hisaishi, whose unforgettable compositions have brought some of cinema's most beloved stories to life. Hear melodies from Spirited Away, My Neighbor Totoro, and more by the warm glow of Candlelight.
6pm - 9pm
Fundraiser Preview Reception for Introducing The Little Liberians: Portraits In Black & Native Placemaking at the Mary and Eliza Freeman Center #26
Get an exclusive sneak peek of the Mary and Eliza Freeman Center’s latest exhibit while showing your support for their mission. May these portraits and fascinating biographies transform memory into positive momentum toward equality and justice.
6pm - 10pm
Opening Reception for Art-Senal of Democracy - Reflection of the Times at BACC #21c
A pop-up exhibit inspired by Nina Simone’s call for artists to reflect the times. The show brings together creative voices responding to the world as it is: complex, shifting, and deeply human. Through art as witness, resistance, reflection and testimonial, this exhibition asks: What does democracy look and feel like right now?
6pm - 10pm
Opening Reception for Adger Cowans Solo Exhibit / Hi-fi at the Arcade #21c
Bridgeport Arts and Cultural Council presents a celebration of the vision and legacy of legendary Bridgeport artist, Adger Cowans. This solo exhibition honors new directions of a remarkable body of work shaped by decades of creativity. Vinyl music listening room next door.
7pm
Standup Comedy - Earthquake at the Stress Factory #16
Get ready for an unforgettable night of raw, unfiltered comedy as the legendary Earthquake takes the stage. Known for his sharp wit and hilarious, tell-it-like-it-is perspective, the comedy heavyweight is set to deliver non-stop laughs. Second show at 9:30pm.
7:30pm - 9:30pm
“Songbirds” Singer-Songwriter Performances at Read’s Artspace #11
Enjoy an evening of live music featuring talented local singer-songwriters, all while exploring the artwork at Read’s Gallery. Bring your own refreshments, settle in, and let our Art Trail “Songbirds” serenade you!
8pm
An Evening of Yacht Rock ft. AM Gold at Park City Music Hall #31
AM GOLD is a New York City based tribute band, performing contemporary hit songs from the late 1970’s through the mid 1980’s. This smooth style of music has stood the test of time…Baby come back!
8:30pm
Candlelight Concerts: 90s Unplugged at the Bijou Theatre #18
Experience 90s Unplugged's most iconic music in a new light at The Bijou Theatre. Surrounded by the warm glow of thousands of candles, a string quartet brings unforgettable music from Foo Fighters, No Doubt, The Cranberries, and more to life in a 60-minute concert.
9:30pm
Standup Comedy - Earthquake at the Stress Factory #16
Get ready for an unforgettable night of raw, unfiltered comedy as the legendary Earthquake takes the stage. Known for his sharp wit and hilarious, tell-it-like-it-is perspective, the comedy heavyweight is set to deliver non-stop laughs. Earlier show at 7pm.
Saturday, November 7th
6am - 4pm
Harborview Market #32 Open
View local art while treating yourself to a fresh and delicious homemade-style breakfast or lunch, gourmet coffee, freshly baked croissants, cookies and muffins. Owned by the Torres family since 1993, the neighborhood eatery is the family-friendly hub of Black Rock.
8:30 am - 9:15 am
Meet up for the BAT Urban Bike Tour at City Lights #22a
Meet at City Lights Gallery (265 Golden Hill St) for bike tour registration, browse the art, sip some coffee and enjoy a snack before the ride. Marvel at Jeff Colemna’s Evil Knievil Stunt Cycle Jump, a BAT tradition! Pose for the annual group photo on the painted staircase, before departing for the art! Bring some cash for a lunch stop along the way.
8:45 am - 5 pm
Framemakers #33
In “American Landscape Series - Bucks County, Delaware Gap, Berkshire Corridor,” Herm Freeman’s works will remind you of Cezanne and Soutine in beautiful vibrant colors and soft pastels.
10am - 12pm
Colorful Bridgeport/DSSD #15 Color Walks - Bridgeport Art Trail Edition
Meet at DSSD Office 938 Broad Street. Lauren Coakley Vincent will lead our November public art Color Walk in celebration of Bridgeport Art Trail. Join us for an insightful and delightful public art walk through Downtown Bridgeport highlighting the many murals and public art installations created by Bridgeport artists in the neighborhood. The walk concludes at a delicious local lunch destination. Spots are expected to fill quickly, so be sure to register here!
Open Studios City-Wide
10am - 5pm
Open Studios at American Fabrics Arts Building #1
AFA welcomes the public to its 20th annual open house. Tour three floors of arts studios in a repurposed factory building where linen and lace were once manufactured. The event has become a destination for collectors, interior designers, and art lovers alike, with artists specializing in painting, printmaking, sculpture, quilting, jewelry, photography, ceramics, textiles, design, mixed media, and more.
10am - 5pm
Open Studios at Metro Art Studios #6
Meet the artists of Metro Art Studios – over 40 artists working in a wide variety of disciplines, from drawing to painting, sculpture to jewelry making, printmaking to photography, video, and music
11am - 4pm
Open Studios at the NEST Arts Factory #30
The NEST Arts Factory—Bridgeport’s longest-standing arts building, established in 1990—has been a creative home to dozens of artists and makers for over three decades. Located in the heart of the city, The NEST continues to be a vibrant hub where art, ideas, and community meet. This year, we open our doors once again during the Bridgeport Art Trail and invite you to explore the studios where art is around every corner.
11am - 5pm
Open Studios at MNTD Studios #2
Meet the artists in freshly renovated spaces. Visitors can enjoy art, beer, and a bite to eat. MNTD Studios shares the building with a brewery, restaurant, elegant event spaces, and vintage cars, as well as the popular vintage market Art is Good, open Sunday for Art Trail.
11am - 5pm
Open Studios at the Knowlton #28
Step into the artist's realm at our Knowlton Open Studios event! Immerse yourself in a vibrant tapestry of creativity as you explore local artists’ studios, witness spaces that birth beauty, and connect with the passionate minds behind the masterpieces.
11am - 6 pm
Kindred Thoughts Bookstore #21b
Visit Bridgeport's only bookstore with an emphasis on African American literature and cultural events, while also supporting the needs and interests across our entire diverse community.
12pm - 3pm
Two Exhibits On View at BACC #21c: Art-Senal of Democracy and New Directions
A pop up exhibit inspired by Nina Simone’s call for artists to reflect the times and a celebration of the vision and legacy of legendary Bridgeport Artist, Adger Cowans. Open again 6pm - 9pm.
12pm - 5pm
On View at City Lights Gallery #22: Now Is the Time Art Exhibit
View a variety of visual expressions, mediums and materials, from metal and fiber to works on paper. Highlights include an illustration by artist/poet Shanna Melton, a contemplative photography series by Joan Fitzsimmons, and “Renewal 1,000,000 A.D.” by Joseph Fekieta. This absurd installation depicts a time far into the future when decayed plastic has finally returned to carbon, renewing life itself.
12pm - 6pm
Open Studio at Gallery 9104 #5
Gallery 9104 features the art of Iyaba Ibo Mandingo, storyteller and master teacher, specializing in paintings, drawings, sculpture, textile collage, poetry, puppetry and performance of his original works like “UnFramed.” He is a sought-after poet/artist regionally, nationally and in the Caribbean and Africa.
12pm - 6pm
On view: WTF Exhibit by Dan Makara at URSA Gallery #19
WTF is a shockingly unforgettable installation of paintings and constructions embellished with neon, lenticulars, found objects, drenched with social commentary. There will be something to upset everyone. The text slang expletive “WTF” expresses the sentiment .... What is going on in America today?
1pm - 3pm
Open House & Student Performances at Neighborhood Studios #23
Neighborhood Studios of Fairfield County is a community school of the arts open to children and adults. Come see our creative classes for children in Bridgeport & see some of our talented teens perform.
1pm - 3pm
Abstract Identity - A Fashion Show at NEST Arts Factory #30
Get ready for Abstract Identity: A Fashion Show, featuring the latest works of eight local fashion designers—Brett Masterson, Sharon Smalls, Carlos Biernnay, Rene Soto, Majestik NicZara (MNZ), Iris Martinez, Rainer, and Melissa O’Grady—brought to life by CT and NYC’s top models. Experience wearable art, bold expression, and the creative vision of independent designers as they transform art into fashion.
1pm - 3pm
Opening Reception for The Little Liberians: Portraits In Black & Native Placemaking at the Mary and Eliza Freeman Center #26
Celebrate Bridgeport’s vibrant legacy of freedom! In 1821, when Connecticut was still a slave state, free people of color - Black and Native American residents of CT, the East Coast, and the Caribbean - were the first to settle 15 blocks of what is now Bridgeport’s South End. May these portraits and fascinating biographies transform memory into positive momentum toward equality and justice.
1pm - 4pm
Opening Reception for An Unwritten Future Exhibit, Crown Gallery at Metro Art Studios #6
At a moment in time when many issues locally, nationally, and globally are fraught or in crisis, “an unwritten future” seeks to explore the agency we, as individuals, have in constructing alternative futures to what we have now. Eight artists working in sculpture, ceramics, painting, and video, illustrate possibilities through imagining, creating, dismantling, and recombining for new perspectives. This extraordinary exhibit is curated by Maria Markham.
2pm
Celebrating the Legacy of Jim Henson: An Afternoon with Craig Shemin and Karen Falk + Screening of The Muppet Movie at the Klein #29
Craig Shemin and Karen Falk celebrate the work of Jim Henson and the 50th anniversary of The Muppet Show, offering behind-the-scenes photos and anecdotes about the creation of the Muppets and the making of the company’s first feature film.
2pm
Curator Talk for PREview Exhibit - William Kent / Afterlife at MNTD Studios #2
In response to the sculpture and printwork of William Kent (1919-2012), living artists are inspired to create artwork in response. Populating a notoriously reclusive artist with fellow creatives. States+Prints, a traveling show from Ball and Socket artspace, curated by Avery Jennings for the William Kent Art Foundation, will also be on view.
2pm & 3pm
Live Music at the NEST Arts Factory #30
Join us for live music sessions featuring CT based bands Modern Refuge (indie rock) and Pangea Worldbeat (global fusion rhythms).
Black Rock Art Guild Members’ Exhibit Reception at the NEST Arts Factory #30
Members of the BRAG will be exhibiting work in a variety of mediums. Join us for our exhibit reception!
3pm - 7pm
Skateport #17 Art Trail Weekend with music by DJ Ch'Varda
Get ready to roll at Bridgeport’s ultimate block party on wheels! Lace up your skates and head down to Post Office Square (1160 Main St.) for a vibrant event packed with community joy.
5:30pm - 8:30pm
Exhibit Reception:Attracted to the Flame + New Works at Schelfhaudt Gallery #4
The Bernhard Center hosts two exhibits presenting a large survey of selected new works from the Bridgeport Art Trail community and a companion exhibit featuring artful welding, to highlight curriculum offered at the University of Bridgeport.
5:30pm - 9:30pm
GLOW Wild Lantern Festival at CT’s Beardsley Zoo #34
GLOW Wild invites guests to stroll through glowing pathways surrounded by brilliant displays of animals, nature, and vibrant colors. Journey through a breathtaking wonderland of illuminated larger-than-life lanterns! Whether it's a family tradition, date night, or an evening with friends or coworkers, GLOW Wild offers an experience that appeals to guests of all ages.
6pm - 8pm
Opening Reception for Karin Bravin, Bravin Lee Projects at Stairwell Space @ AmFab Studios #1
The stairwell becomes a dwelling in fractured time, a portal between origin and destination. The Stairwell Space is an artist-led, mission-driven alternative art venue housed in AmFab’s historic marble foyer.
6pm - 9pm
Two Exhibits On View at BACC #21c and Hi-Fi at the Arcade
A pop up exhibit inspired by Nina Simone’s call for artists to reflect the times and A celebration of the vision and legacy of legendary Bridgeport Artist, Adger Cowans. Also back by popular demand, our pop-up vinyl listening room experience in the Historic Arcade Mall in downtown Bridgeport, CT is BACC.
6:30pm
Lyrical Voices Presents Presents: A Night Of Poetry & Arts at Read’s Artspace #11
Lyrical Voices presents A Night of Poetry & Arts—a beloved creative home in Bridgeport for over twenty years—and welcomes artists and audiences into a space filled with rhythm, reflection, laughter, and community. Founded and hosted by Shanna T. Melton, the event blends spoken word, music, and visual art into a visceral, connective experience. Come share, listen, and be inspired.
7pm
Standup Comedy - Earthquake at the Stress Factory #16
Get ready for an unforgettable night of raw, unfiltered comedy as the legendary Earthquake takes the stage. Known for his sharp wit and hilarious, tell-it-like-it-is perspective, the comedy heavyweight is set to deliver non-stop laughs. Second show at 9:30pm.
7:15pm - 8:30pm
Reflection of the Times Panel Discussion at BACC #21c
This panel discussion brings together artists, cultural leaders, and key community voices for a timely conversation about creativity, democracy, and the world we are navigating today. Featuring artists from Art-Senal alongside invited thought leaders, the discussion explores how art can bear witness, challenge perspectives, and help us make sense of the moments we are living in together.
7:30pm - 9:30pm
Greater Bridgeport Symphony #29a at the Mertens Theater: I Hear America Singing
Bernhard Center on the campus of the University of Bridgeport #4
Maestro Eduardo Leandro will conduct a select group of GBS musicians, accompanied by the Wilton Singers. Mertens’ radial seating brings you close to the performers, who will present eight pieces of American music, starting with America the Beautiful. Art Trail attendees can get a 25% discount on tickets by using the promo code ArtsT26 at www.GBS.org
8pm
Pearl Jam and Alice In Chains Tribute Bands at Park City Music Hall #31
Last Exit is the East Coast's Premier Pearl Jam Tribute Act. Love Hate Love brings the emotional weight and haunting harmonies of Alice In Chains. Focusing on the band’s rich vocal layers, acoustic arrangements, and introspective mood. (21+ show)
9:30pm
Standup Comedy - Earthquake at the Stress Factory #16
Get ready for an unforgettable night of raw, unfiltered comedy as the legendary Earthquake takes the stage. Known for his sharp wit and hilarious, tell-it-like-it-is perspective, the comedy heavyweight is set to deliver non-stop laughs. Earlier show at 7pm.
Sunday, November 8th
6am - 2pm
Harborview Market #32 Open
View local art while treating yourself to a fresh and delicious homemade-style breakfast or lunch, gourmet coffee, freshly baked croissants, cookies and muffins. Owned by the Torres family since 1993, the neighborhood eatery is the family-friendly hub of Black Rock.
10am - 4pm
Multivendor Marketplace at Recollective #7
Step into a space where every object tells a story. Housed in a historic printing press in the heart of Bridgeport, Recollective is a curated multivendor marketplace celebrating the beauty of past vintage, antique, salvaged and storied goods deserving of a second life.
10am - 5pm
Open Studios at Metro Art Studios #6
Meet the artists of Metro Art Studios – over 40 artists working in a wide variety of disciplines, from drawing to painting, sculpture to jewelry making, printmaking to photography, video, and music.
10am - 5pm
Open Studios at American Fabrics Arts Building #1
AFA welcomes the public to its 20th annual open house. Tour three floors of arts studios in a repurposed factory building where linen and lace were once manufactured. The event has become a destination for collectors, interior designers, and art lovers alike, with artists specializing in painting, printmaking, sculpture, quilting, jewelry, photography, ceramics, textiles, design, mixed media, and more.
10am - 5pm
On Display: An Unwritten Future, Crown Gallery at Metro Art Studios #6
At a moment in time when many issues locally, nationally, and globally are fraught or in crisis, “an unwritten future” seeks to explore the agency we, as individuals, have in constructing alternative futures to what we have now. Eight artists illustrate possibilities through imagining, creating, dismantling, and recombining for new perspectives. This extraordinary exhibit is curated by Maria Markham.
10am - 5pm
On display: The Work of Herm Freeman at Brightworks Gallery #36
Step into the home of local artist John Bright and experience the most intimate gallery space in Bridgeport. Come see our latest show, “I Brake for Landscapes, Cubist Farmhouses, and Imaginary Places” with the work of Herm Freeman.
OPEN STUDIOS
11am - 1pm
Artists’ Brunch with music by Dan Tressler at the NEST Arts Factory #30
Kick off your day with complimentary brunch bites, refreshing mimosas, and live music by Dan Tressler, all in the company of fellow artists and art enthusiasts. Mingle, network, and make meaningful connections in a relaxed, inspiring atmosphere. It's the perfect way to start your visit before diving into the Open Studios and exploring all the creativity the NEST has to offer—come get inspired!
12pm - 5pm
On View at City Lights Gallery #22: Now Is the Time Art Exhibit
View a variety of visual expressions, mediums and materials, from metal and fiber to works on paper. Highlights include an illustration by artist/poet Shanna Melton, a contemplative photography series by Joan Fitzsimmons, and “Renewal 1,000,000 A.D.” by Joseph Fekieta. This absurd installation depicts a time far into the future when decayed plastic has finally returned to carbon, renewing life itself.
12pm - 5pm
On display: Artists Choose Artists Exhibition at Read’s Artspace #11
See selected work from the residents of Read’s Artspace along with guest artists in the spacious Ground Floor Gallery at 1042 Broad Street.
11am - 5pm
Open Studios at MNTD Studios #2
Meet the artists in freshly renovated spaces. Visitors can enjoy art, beer, and a bite to eat. MNTD Studios shares the building with a brewery, restaurant, elegant event spaces, and vintage cars, as well as the popular vintage market Art is Good, open Sunday for Art Trail.
11am - 5pm
Open Studios at the Knowlton #28
Step into the artist's realm at our Knowlton Open Studios event! Immerse yourself in a vibrant tapestry of creativity as you explore local artists’ studios, witness spaces that birth beauty, and connect with the passionate minds behind the masterpieces.
11am - 5pm
On Display: Black Rock Art Guild Members’ Art Exhibition at the NEST Arts Factory #30
Members of the Black Rock Art Guild will be exhibiting work in a variety of mediums. BRAG is proud to foster an inclusive and supportive artistic environment in Black Rock and the surrounding areas.
12pm - 4pm
On display: Attracted to the Flame + New Works at the Schelfhaudy Gallery #4
Inspired by the quote by Van Gogh, “One must never let the fire go out in one’s soul, but keep it burning.” The Bernhard Center hosts two exhibits presenting a large survey of selected new works from the Bridgeport Art Trail community and a companion exhibit featuring artful welding, to highlight curriculum offered at the University of Bridgeport.
12pm - 5pm
12pm - 6pm
Open Studio at Gallery 9104 #5
Gallery 9104 features the art of Iyaba Ibo Mandingo, storyteller and master teacher, specializing in paintings, drawings, sculpture, textile collage, poetry, puppetry and performance of his original works like “UnFramed.” He is a sought-after poet/artist regionally, nationally and in the Caribbean and Africa.
Two Exhibits On View at BACC #21c: Art-Senal of Democracy and New Directions
A pop up exhibit inspired by Nina Simone’s call for artists to reflect the times and a celebration of the vision and legacy of legendary Bridgeport Artist, Adger Cowans.
1pm - 4pm
Open Studios at the NEST Arts Factory #30
The NEST Arts Factory—Bridgeport’s longest-standing arts building, established in 1990—has been a creative home to dozens of artists and makers for over three decades. Located in the heart of the city, The NEST continues to be a vibrant hub where art, ideas, and community meet. This year, we open our doors once again during the Bridgeport Art Trail and invite you to explore the studios where art is around every corner.
1pm - 4pm
On display: The Little Liberians - Portraits In Black & Native Placemaking at the Mary and Eliza Freeman Center #26
Celebrate Bridgeport’s vibrant legacy of freedom! In 1821, when Connecticut was still a slave state, free people of color - Black and Native American residents of CT, the East Coast, and the Caribbean - were the first to settle 15 blocks of what is now Bridgeport’s South End. May these portraits and fascinating biographies transform memory into positive momentum toward equality and justice.
2pm
Collect Local Gallery Talk for PREview - William Kent / Afterlife at MNTD #2
In response to the sculpture and printwork of William Kent (1919-2012), living artists are inspired to create artwork in response. Populating a notoriously reclusive artist with fellow creatives. States+Prints, a traveling show from Ball and Socket artspace, curated by Avery Jennings for the William Kent Art Foundation, will also be on view. A percent of proceeds go towards the Elder Art Fund, a William Kent initiative.
2pm - 3:30pm
Artist Talk with Adger Cowans at BACC #21c
Join legendary Bridgeport artist Adger Cowans for an intimate conversation exploring his life, work, and creative journey. Hear directly from the artist as he shares the wisdom, stories, and perspectives shaped by decades of creating, observing, and inspiring.
