What does it mean to be an artist and to build a creative community that lasts for generations? In this episode of Spotlight on Arts & Culture, Douglas Laustsen sits down with the patron saint of Westport Arts and a cofounder of the artists collective of westport, Miggs Burroughs, for a wide-ranging, deeply personal conversation about art, activism, community, and an extraordinary life in the arts. Hear stories of the generations of Westport artists, his upbringing and his father’s animation career, his very brief acting career and subtle protests during the civil rights movement, making lenticulars, the need for community as an artist, and even painting an egg for a president. Along the way, discover why connection and community can be just as essential to an artist as the work itself. A fascinating conversation with one of Fairfield County’s most distinctive creative voices and a glimpse into the people and stories that have shaped its vibrant arts landscape.

How can music create spaces where everyone belongs?

In this episode of the Cultural Alliance of Fairfield County’s WPKN Spotlight Series, we sit down with Pete Kozak and Jill Tuck, the founders of Especially Everyone, a nonprofit organization dedicated to building inclusive musical experiences for people of all abilities. Especially Everyone is redefining what participation in the arts can look like. Our conversation explores the importance of creating universally accessible events and how music can foster connection and community. Join us as we discuss the challenges and rewards of making the arts more accessible and why inclusion strengthens the entire cultural landscape.

The arts have the power to shape lives long before someone steps onto a stage or into a gallery. In this episode of Spotlight on Arts & Culture, Douglas Laustsen speaks with Katie Lang, Manager of Engagement Initiatives at Regina A. Quick Center for the Arts, about the Quick’s Arts for All initiative and its commitment to expanding access to arts education throughout Fairfield County. Serving more than 3,000 students each year, Arts for All connects young people with professional artists through workshops, live performances, mentorships, transportation assistance, scholarships, and long-term partnerships with schools and community organizations. The program demonstrates how sustained investment in arts experiences helps foster creativity, confidence, academic success, and lifelong engagement with culture.