Get those hands messy. From plein air painting to fall-themed ceramics, autumn is the perfect season to step into your creative self. Whether you’re looking to hone a skill, pick up a new hobby, or simply slow down and make something with your hands, Fairfield County is home to a rich arts scene filled with opportunities to create, observe and be inspired.
Here’s where to flex those creative muscles this season.
Stamford – Loft Artists Association
Housed in a former industrial building in Stamford’s South End, Loft Artists Association is a longstanding collective of working artists dedicated to sharing their craft with the community. Known for its vibrant mix of open studios, exhibitions and small-group workshops, the space celebrates both emerging talent and seasoned professionals. Visitors can explore paintings, mixed media, photography and more—all while connecting with the artists behind the work.
Rowayton – Rowayton Arts Center
Set along the waterfront, the Rowayton Arts Center offers a warm, welcoming space for creatives of all levels. It’s a place where watercolorists, ceramicists, printmakers and painters work side-by-side, often showcasing their pieces in the on-site gallery. The Center has long emphasized connection through creativity—through studio classes, seasonal exhibits or thoughtful artist-led salons that blend conversation and hands-on exploration.
MoCA Westport brings contemporary art into close, local view. With thoughtfully curated exhibitions, artist talks and creative workshops, the museum encourages the community to engage deeply with modern ideas and materials. Beyond the galleries, MoCA offers opportunities for both kids and adults to experiment—whether it’s sculpture, digital design, or collaborative art-making inspired by the natural world.
New Canaan – Silvermine Arts Center
For over a century, Silvermine has been a cornerstone of Connecticut’s creative scene. Nestled in the woods of New Canaan, the center’s campus includes artist studios, multiple galleries,and a school of art with offerings that span ceramics, sculpture, drawing and more. Outdoor painting sessions capture the colors of the season, while hands-on classes invite everyone—from hobbyists to professionals—to get inspired and get messy.
Fairfield – Fairfield University’s Quick Center + Studio Arts Programs
Fairfield University’s cultural venues offer a thoughtful intersection of academic inquiry and creative expression. The Quick Center and Fairfield University Art Museum often host lectures, artist talks, and interactive exhibits that invite community dialogue around the arts. And through its studio arts programming, the university creates space for making as much as for viewing—whether through clay, paint, or mixed media.
Wilton/Weston – Wilton Arts Council + Weston Public Library Makerspace
Art lives in the small, intentional spaces too. In Wilton and Weston, local libraries and makerspaces have become gathering places for hands-on experimentation—offering everything from seasonal craft nights to digital art sessions and beginner-friendly design workshops. Whether you’re carving mini-pumpkins or learning how to laser cut, these spaces are all about lowering the barrier to entry and keeping creativity accessible.