Public art project kicks off May 7

TORRINGTON— The Northwest Connecticut Arts Council, Northwest Connecticut Chamber Education Foundation and Prime Time House recently announced a collaborative public art project called Tails of NWCT which will build a sense of community in the region, promote tourism, and enhance the exposure of local artists. Tails of NWCT is intended to beautify the business districts and towns, encourage foot traffic into local businesses, and celebrate the uniqueness of the area.

A kickoff party, “Meet the Mutts” will be held at the Edison Grill, 178 Birge Park Road, Harwinton, on Monday, May 7, 5:30-7 p.m. with a cash bar and free hors d’ouvres. To RSVP go to nwctchamberofcommerce.org/ calendar.

All proceeds will benefit the three collaborating organizations, enabling them to strengthen arts and culture, provide scholarship opportunities, and improve the mental health of those living in Northwest Connecticut.

Local artists are invited to create unique works of art by painting or decorating fiberglass dogs. Businesses and community members are encouraged to foster dogs for the event by sponsoring a dog, of which there are four types. The completed art dogs will be on display throughout Northwest Connecticut from mid-August through Columbus Day weekend. A regional map of all the display locations for the completed Tails of NWCT art dogs will be available to residents and tourists. Dogs that are not purchased back by their sponsors will be available for bid at the Tails of NWCT Auction on Saturday, October 20 at Chatterley’s Banquet Facility in Torrington.

For more information about the project, including sponsorship opportunities and information for prospective artists, visit www.TAILSofNWCT.org or call the Northwest Connecticut Chamber of Commerce at 860-482-6586.