WEST REDDING — At least two Newtown artists will be represented in an invitational art show being planned for the first full week of June. An opening reception on May 31 will offer early previews and shopping opportunities for tickets holders.

New Pond Farm is pleased to announce the 2019 Invitational Art Show, which will benefit its Education Center. The show will be on view June 1-9, with a special Preview Party for artists and guests on Friday, May 31.

The seventh biennial art show will showcase paintings, drawings, and sculptures featuring the timeless themes of nature and agrarian life inspired by New Pond Farm.

Fifty of the region’s talented artists are invited to paint, sculpt, and draw either on the 102-acre property or the surrounding area and then share their favorite pieces at the Art Show, according to New Pond Farm executive director.

“We are very excited about this wonderful event. We host the Art Show every other year, and it is always incredibly beautiful,” Ms Taylor said.

Among the participating artists this year are Marcia Taylor and Chris Cushman, both of Newtown.

Schedule Of Events

Friday, May 31, 6-8 pm: Preview Party

A special evening of beautiful art, lively conversation, and delicious refreshments, admission to the preview party is $25 per person, or $100 for Art Patrons. Each Art Patron will receives two tickets and $50 toward art purchase.

Saturday, June 1, through Sunday, June 9, Invitational Art Show

Gallery hours will be 10 am to 5 pm daily. Admission is free. Visitors can browse through two rooms of original artwork and portfolios in the Learning Center, enter a drawing for a one year membership to New Pond Farm, and bid for an art treasure in the silent auction.

June 1-9: Daily Paint and Picnic

During the Art Show, New Pond Farm will be open, and all will be welcome to bring their art supplies and picnics to experience the farm and to enjoy en plein air. There will be exhibit space available for those wishing to display their work and a special drawing for participants.

Painting Demonstrations

Painting demonstrations will be offered two afternoons during the invitation. Each will run from 1 to 3 pm.

Plein Air Painting with John Forgione will be offered Saturday, June 1 (rain date June 2); and Still Life Painting with Adele Moros will be offered Sunday, June 9.

Children’s Art Activities (free, but space is limited, and registration is required for each 60-minute session): Monday, June 3, 4 pm, Painted Paper Butterfly Collection; Tuesday, June 4, 4 pm, Handmade Nature Journals; Thursday, June 6, 4 pm, Artful Roosters; and Friday, June 7, 4 pm, Painted Leaf Mandalas.

Saturday, June 8, 1-3 pm: Earth Art

All ages are invited to join New Pond Farm artists and create earth-friendly artwork using only the elements of nature, bare hands, and imagination.

Sunday, June 9: Closing & Awards

Light refreshments will be available all day. The winners of silent auction offerings and the drawing winners will be announced at 4 pm.

More than 50 years ago, New Pond Farm was the home of founder, actress, and environmentalist Carmen Mathews. She wanted her beautiful 102 acres of pastures, woodlands and wetlands to serve as an oasis where people could connect with the natural world.

Since then, New Pond has evolved into a comprehensive educational center and working farm offering a signature summer camp for inner city and local children as well as a wide range of school and community programs.

New Pond Farm is at 101 Marchant Road in West Redding. For additional information about the invitations, reservations to the preview party, or details about the property and its offerings, call 203-938-2117 or visit [naviga:u]newpondfarm.org[/naviga:u].