Westport, CT February 2023 by City Lifestyle

Art is Everywhere A R T S + C U LT U R E

OU R VIBRANT ART CO M MU N IT Y TH E M AKI NG O F MUSI C AN D MUSI CAL S LI F E + C U LTU R E

IM PROV I NG D OWNTOWN WESTPO RT F E B R UA RY 2 02 3

WHEN LOCAL KNOWLEDGE MEETS BUSINESS EXPERIENCE, YOU WIN.

Visit us today for all of your banking and lending needs.

Bank smart. Bank local. Bank well. 100 Post Road East, Westport CT (203) 652-2710

mybankwell.com Member FDIC | Equal Housing Lender

www.titusbuilt.com

203.834.0275

@titusbuiltllc

ERIC J. BRODER CO-FOUNDING MEMBER AND PARTNER

Westport, thank you for voting us

BEST FAMILY LAW FIRM ERIC J. BRODER • CAROLE TOPOL ORLAND • SARAH E. MURRAY • CHRISTOPHER J. DEMATTIE NICOLE M. DIGIOSE • ROBERT D. VOSSLER • SAMUEL V. SCHOONMAKER IV • SUE GEORGIADES

203-222-4949 • www.ctfamilylaw.com 55 GREENS FARMS ROAD, WESTPORT, CT 06880 115 EAST PUTNAM AVENUE, GREENWICH, CT 06830

LIFESTYLE LETTER

Art is Everywhere

February 2023 PUBLISHER

Marisa MacLean | marisa.maclean@citylifestyle.com EDITOR

Robin Moyer Chung | robin.chung@citylifestyle.com

The cold days of February are good days for art. Whether it’s colorful paintings, great music, or local theatre, art brings warmth and brightness to winter days. Fortunately, in Westport and Weston art is everywhere. To discover new-to-you artists, Salon dada exhibits local talent regularly in their space, and we talked to three of their favorites. Invest In Her Art, which Diana Mathis began in 2020, introduces women artists to the entire country. We caught up with Linda Colletta, a bold artist who thrives on her risks and successes, and our back page has a list of museums and galleries all over town. Art’s not just painting - it’s theatre, music, and many other mediums. Like most Staples Players’ productions, Guys and Dolls was a smash hit. We went behind the scenes to learn how and who makes these musicals happen. We also enjoyed a fantastic performance by Drew Angus at our Readers’ Choice party and can’t wait for you to learn more about him. If the cold days have you dreaming of summer, read about downtown Westport’s upcoming improvements, specifically new designs for Parker Harding (construction starting this summer). If you’re hibernating for a few days and want a face-refresher, consider Dr. O’Connell’s newest skin-tightening technology, the Ellacor® System. Oh - and don’t forget Valentines Day! We have ten great ideas about how to celebrate.

CONTR IBUTING WR ITER S

Meredith Guinness, Caroline Barney CONTR IBUTING PHOTOGR APHER S

Mindy Briar, Chloe Crespi

Corporate Team CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt CHIEF SALES OFFICER Matthew Perry CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER DeLand Shore

Enjoy!

DIRECTOR OF SOCIAL MEDIA Mindy Hargesheimer ART DIRECTOR Sara Minor OPERATIONS DIRECTOR Janeane Thompson WEB APPLICATIONS Michael O’Connell AD DESIGNER Mary Albers

MARISA MACLEAN, PUBLISHER @WESTPORTLIFESTYLE

LAYOUT DESIGNER Jayme Emery

Learn how to start your own publication at: citylifestyle.com//franchise

Scan QR code to visit our Instagram CIT YLIFEST YLE.COM/ WESTPORT |

Proverbs 3:5-6 Westport Lifestyle™ is published monthly by Lifestyle Publications LLC. It is distributed via the US Postal Service to some of the Westport area’s most affluent neighborhoods. Articles and advertisements do not necessarily reflect Lifestyle Publications’ opinions. No portion of this magazine may be reproduced in any form without written consent. Lifestyle Publications does not assume responsibility for statements made by advertisers or editorial contributors. Information in Westport Lifestyle™ is gathered from sources considered to be reliable, but the

L I F E ST Y LE LE T T E R

accuracy of all information cannot be guaranteed.

Fall in love with the SKIN you're in! REMODELS & CONTOURS THE FACE NECK AND BODY S T I M U L AT E S COLLAGEN SUB-DERMAL RENEWAL NO DOWNTIME

S E R V I N G FA I R F I E L D C O U N T Y F O R O V E R 9 Y E A R S !

Giving you the choices you deserve.

79 South Benson Road Fairfield, CT 06824

203.292.5559 DrChristineGould.com

HOME IS ART YOU CAN LIVE IN Connecticut’s Most Respected Custom Pool Contractor Celebrating 45 Years of Custom Pool Design & Construction All American Custom Pools & Spas is an industry expert in the custom design and craft of quality in-ground, gunite pools and spas. Our fully licensed team specializes in new pool construction, renovation, masonry, and water features.

Clear expectations, veteran staff, and finely crafted pools built to last.

COMMERCIAL & RESIDENTIAL

203-487-5779 • ALLAMERICANPOOLS.COM 153 DEWEY STREET BRIDGEPORT, CONNECTICUT 06605

New acne treatments available tailored to your skin type, to target acne & Acne Scarring

Accessible skin care from experts you can trust. Annette Czernik, MD, FAAD

203-442-1800

DermMedical.org

Route 7 Wilton, CT

Offering both medical and procedural dermatology including Acne Treatment

BOTOX

Microneedling

Skin Cancer Treatment

Anti-Aging Procedures

and more

F E B R UA RY 2 0 2 3

inside the issue The Local Love Issue

F E ATU R E D

D E PA RTM E NTS

32 Razzle Dazzle Them

Lifestyle Letter

City Scene

Business Monthly

Back Stage

Local Limelight

ENT ERTA I NM E N T

Maker’s Studio

A RTS + C U LTU R E

Our Town

A RTS + C U LT U R E

Skin Care

B EAU T Y

Artist’s Palette

Hot Spot

Locally Sourced

Trend Setter

Events

Gift Guide

Behind the Scenes of a Staples Players Show

38 A Promising Young Man Musician Drew Angus is on the Rise

44 Art Rooted in History, Success Fueled by Risk Linda Colletta’s Journey

72 Westport’s Getting Its Green On! Improving our Downtown Waterfront

O N T H E C OV E R

Photography: Chloe Crespi Artist Linda Colletta in her studio.

A RTS + C U LT U R E

A RTS + C U LT U R E R EA L ESTAT E

HO ME + DES I GN

A RTS + C U LT U R E

YOUR CLOSET IS A CANVAS

Reinspire

WALK-IN CLOSET

CLOSETS • GARAGES • HOME OFFICES • ENTERTAINMENT CENTERS • WALL BEDS • WALL UNITS • LAUNDRY ROOMS • PANTRIES • CRAFT ROOMS • MUD ROOMS • WINE ROOMS

Be reinspired. See your wardrobe in a whole new light. You will wonder why you didn't do this sooner. Call (203) 549-1287 for a free in-home or virtual design consultation and estimate. Visit us online at closetfactory.com. Showroom 100 Wooster St., Bethel, CT 06801 Showroom 110 Post Road, Darien, CT 06820 ©2021 Closet Factory. All rights reserved.

RE01PF

F E B R UA RY 2 0 2 3

city scene

Where neighbors can see and be seen. 1

1: Westport Lifestyle Magazine Readers’ Choice Celebration. Sarah True and WLM Publisher Marisa MacLean. 2: Shoelh Janati and Courtney Davis Schlesinger. 3: The Blow Dry ladies, September Sirico and Clarissa Biasuz “test out” their winning medals. 4: Erin Myers, Steven Gemignani, Josh Levkoff and Andi Sklar 5: Tony Sirico, Kathryn Sirico, Clarissa Biasuz, September Sirico, Patrick Jean, Alex Orachef. 6: Bill Taibe and Marisa MacLean. 7: Reader’s Choice Winners, friends and WLM staff. Photography by John Videler

CONTINUED >

C I T Y SC E N E

Kitchen Traditions

Showroom and Design Center

Inspired designs, well crafted. 6 0 New town Rd Danbur y, Connec ticut 0 6 8 1 0 | ( 2 0 3 ) 7 9 1 - 0 5 0 1 | kitchentraditions.ne t

CIT Y SCENE CONTINUED

7 5

1: Doug Bross, Alex Chingas, Christy Charisse, Ashley Charisse and Justin Charisse. 2: Stephanie Berghoff of The Home Cook CT and Marisa MacLean. 3: Robin Selden, Sarah True and Jennifer Reilly show off their Readers’ Choice wins. 4: The Marpes and Cadouxs. 5: Drew Angus performs. 6: Andi Sklar and Marisa MacLean 7: The Collective West was the perfect party space Photography by John Videler

CONTINUED >

C I T Y SC E N E

LOOK YOUR BEST THIS YEAR!

GET READY FOR VALENTINE’S DAY WITH PRETTY LIPS! Improve your communication and reconnect with betterlooking lips. Improve fine lines, rejuvenate, and redefine your lips. We can create natural and younger lips your friends and lovers won’t forget. Safe, painless, and erasable if one day you decide you no longer like them.

It’s a no brainer!! Get your lips looking their best NOW!

TANYA FUTORYAN, MD BOARD CERTIFIED DERMATOLOGIST Castle Connolly Top Doctor 2022

IN THE MONTH OF FEBRUARY, RECEIVE $100 OFF ANY COSMETIC PROCEDURE OF $500+ OR $50 OFF ANY PROCEDURE UNDER $500. 325 RIVERSIDE AVE, WESTPORT, CT 06880 P H O N E : 2 0 3 . 2 2 6 . 3 6 0 0 / T E X T: 2 0 3 .6 6 6 .6 6 0 4 I N F O @W E S T P O RT D E R M .C O M / W W W.W E S T P O RT D E R M .C O M

CIT Y SCENE CONTINUED

14 12

8: Erica Acheychek, Jason Mudd and Cindy Raney 9: Michele Sinacore, Josh Levkoff and Stacey Levkoff 10: Drew Angus and Marisa MacLean. 11: Jen Tooker and Marisa MacLean. 12: Benjamin Lagasse and Sarah Holland. 13: Lisa Watkins and Robin Moyer Chung. 14: Lisa Watkins, Tom Henske and Caroline Barney.

Photography by John Videler

CONTINUED >

C I T Y SC E N E

Visual Arts Performing Arts The Academy MoCA Westport is a destination for contemporary visual arts exhibitions, music performances, and comprehensive arts education. Our mission is to build a deeper understanding of and passion for the arts by presenting thoughtprovoking and relevant arts experiences.

Become a MoCA Member today!

19 Newtown Turnpike, Westport, CT 203-222-7070 • mocawestport.org

CIT Y SCENE CONTINUED

16 21

16: Betsy Weissman, Andrea Pecoriello and Bill Pecoriello 17: Chef Chrissy Tacey and Enrique Alarcon. 18: WLM editor Robin Moyer Chung and Marisa MacLean. 19: Stephanie Berghoff of the Home Cook CT, Dany Berghoff, Betsy Weissman. 20: Erica Acheychek, Marisa MacLean and Veronica Monahan 21: Annette Norton and Sharon Zion Photography by John Videler

CONTINUED >

C I T Y SC E N E

Cindy Raney & Team Notable Westport Sales

4 Ferry Lane East $4,701,840 23 Covelee Drive $4,600,000 18 Cranbury Road $3,500,000 23 Bayberry Lane $2,845,000 27 Maple Avenue North $2,710,000 4 Sharp Turn Lane $2,675,000 67 Old Hill Road $2,300,000 3 Keene Road $2,199,000 13 Sprucewood Lane $2,100,000 8 Hockanum Road $2,100,000

WE LOVE W EST PORT GI V E US A CAL L

N EW WEBS I T E

203 -2 57-83 20

CINDYRANEY.COM

@ CI N DY RA N EYA N DT EAM

CIT Y SCENE CONTINUED

22: Liz Perpek and Griff Conti 23: Michele Sinacore, Jen Berniker and Shannon Vindiola. 24: Mary Ellen Marpe, Jim Marpe, Andrew Colabella and Dan Woog. 25: Adam Goldberg, Rick Higgins, Angela Benzan, Adele Higgins and Jen Goldberg. 26: Annette Norton, Bill Taibe and Randy Herbertson. 27: Marcia Selden Catering provided beautiful desserts to the crowd. Photography by John Videler

C I T Y SC E N E

28: Josh + Stacey Levkoff and Allison Gurley enjoy catering by The Home Cook CT. 29: Jessica Newshel and Hannah Spencer. 30: Peter Cadoux, Jason Mudd, Ryan Ambrifi and Alex Orachef.

Photography by John Videler

CONTINUED >

Celebrating 25 Years Est. April 1, 1996

SGBBW Attorneys from left to Right: Jake DelGreco, Natassia M. Fodor, Aidan R. Welsh, Jill H. Blomberg, Cynthia C. George, Peter M. Bryniczka, and Molly C. Sanford

(203) 862-5000 | sgbfamilylaw.com 1700 East Putnam Ave Suite 206 Old Greenwich, CT 06870 | 180 Post Road E., Westport CT, 06880

Proudly introducing our new Westport office: 180 Post Rd. E., Westport, CT 06880 FEBR UARY 2 0 2 3 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM / W E ST P O RT

CIT Y SCENE CONTINUED

1: Wilton Rocks for Food. Donna Savage and Patty Perry. 2: Andy Schlesinger, Gerry Lee, Dan Berg. 4: Musicians participated in this year’s event spending 3 months rehearsing their sets. 5: Jason Coviello with Andy Schlesinger, Chris Peacock, Jason Coviello, Lorenzo Diurno, Jack Jackson. 6: Musicians in 2022’s celebration. Photography Courtesy of Jeff Johnson and Brian Kesselman

Want to be seen in the magazine? Tag your Instagram photos with @westportlifestyle

C I T Y SC E N E

D R . M A S H A KO G A N & D R . V I R G I N I A R O M A N O

READERS’ CHOICE 2022

CITY PICK 2021

203.227.8700 • DENTALCENTERWESTPORT.COM • CARE@DENTALCENTERWESTPORT.COM • 175 POST RD W, WESTPORT

Let’s Go 2023!

The real estate market has not been easy to navigate the last few years… and we are entering 2023 with new complexities. Danna & Jen are experienced, patient and will give you the handholding service you deserve.

With over $70 Million in home sales in 2022, they are the team to trust!

30 Elm Street, Westport CT 06880 Danna: 917-282-6292 and Jen: 203-368-8032

Finally

Skin Removal Without Surgery!

ALL NEUROMODULATORS AND FILLERS ARE PERSONALLY ADMINISTERED BY DR. JOSEPH O’CONNELL A DOUBLE-BOARD CERTIFIED PLASTIC SURGEON AND MASTER INJECTOR.

208 Post Road West Westport, CT | (203) 454-0044 | PlasticSurgeryCT.com President Connecticut Society of Plastic Surgeons

F E B R UA RY 2 0 2 3

business monthly A round-up of exciting news from local businesses.

schedule today!

Healing Hearts and Minds

campbowwow.com/bridgeport *LEGAL WOOF: Oﬀer valid only at above location. Free ﬁrst day valid only for interview day. New customers only. Camper must meet entrance requirements. Other restrictions apply.

FDIRST AY

FREE!

Tracy Livecchi, a Westport resident and mental health provider, has co-authored a book entitled, Healing Hearts and Minds: A holistic approach to coping well with congenital heart disease (CHD), published by Oxford University Press. It is the first of its kind to address the emotional and psychological issues related to this lifelong condition, offering coping strategies for patients, families, and health care providers. Available on Amazon.com. Photography Sophia Livecchi

24th Annual Crossword Puzzle Contest Westport's contest is

B USIN E SS M ON T H LY

crossword always fun!

puzzle Enjoy a

MID-CENTURY

word-game filled afternoon with Will Shortz, New York Times crossword puzzle editor. Participants will strive to solve three puzzles during a set time for a chance to compete in the final round. Special wordplay games will make the day even more fun! February 4, 1 p.m. at Westport Library. Please note that seats are limited. Registration required. WestportLibrary.org

MODERN 147 SK Y TOP TERR ACE

Musical Notes: Selections from the Westport Public Art Collections Selections from the Westport Public Art Collection are on view in the Library’s Jesup Gallery, located in the Trefz Forum, through February 28, 2023. Art was selected that pays tribute to the performing arts in Westport. WestPAC artists featured in this exhibit include Susan Malloy, Ann Chernow, Larry Silver, Paul Rand, among others. WestportLibrary.org (The Orchestra, by Susan Malloy)

CONTINUED >

MICHELLEANDTEAM.COM | 203.454.4663 (HOME) FEBR UARY 2 0 2 3 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM / W E ST P O RT

B U S I N E S S M O N T H LY C O N T I N U E D

A new Culinary Concept F R O M

S P A I N

A S E L E CT I O N O F M O D E R N & C L A SS I C TA PA S I N A D D I T I O N T O E X C L U S I V E LY S E L E CT E D S PA N I S H W I N E P R O G R A M

ACT of CT Presents Rock of Ages Did someone say “1980’s”?!?!? This five-time Tony Award-nominated Broadway hit takes place on Hollywood’s Sunset Strip and follows Stacee Jaxx, aspiring rock star Drew, and small-town girl Sherri, as developers sweep into town with plans to turn the fabled Strip into just another capitalist strip mall. Only the music of hit bands Styx, Journey, Bon Jovi, Whitesnake, REO Speedwagon, Pat Benatar, Twisted Sister (and more) hold the answer! PG-13. ACTofCT.org Begins February 23. 36 Old Quarry Road, Ridgefield

BEST TAPAS IN WESTPORT! At D eTA PA S , w e o f f e r a go o d va r i e t y o f ta pa s , f r o m c l a s s i c to modern, salads, fish, lamb, chicken & ver y soon beef as well. In addition, ever ything we do is with quality and passion. The sauces are made in-house, even the allioli or mayonnaise and the fish and meat is delivered daily.

W W W . D E T A P A S R E S T A U R A N T. C O M 180 POST ROAD EAST • (203) 557-0257 28

B USIN E SS M ON T H LY

"Layers Revealed" Exhibition Featuring Works by Jerri Graham In the new exhibition “Layers Revealed” at The Norwalk Art Space, Graham invites artists Tim Holmstrom and Melissa Newman to

explore the many cycles and layers of humanity, nature, beauty, creation, and decay. Graham states, “Each frame of the camera is a fraction of a second of a life that will be lived for a time unknown. Within these fractionated layers, we find our lives and ourselves.” Through February 9. 455 West Avenue, Norwalk TheNorwalkArtSpace.org

319 BAYBERRY LANE | WESTPORT, CT DREAMS COME TRUE AT THIS MASTERPIECE WHICH BLENDS STUNNING DESIGN WITH EXQUISITE QUALITY

$7,950,000

Photography Jerri Graham

... BROSS CHINGAS BROSS T E A M

Zoom with Wynston Browne Wynston Browne is a 15 year-old non-speaking autistic teen (featured in our November 2022 issue) whorecently learned to communicate by pointing to letters on a laminated sheet of paper. Friends and family have now learned Wynston, assumed to have a low IQ, is smart and well-spoken. He is happy to zoom with anyone to help them understand what is possible for other autistic individuals. Call Lynda (917) 374-6948

Barbara Bross, Alexander Chingas & Doug Bross

#1 Real Estate Agent Team in Westport & Weston, CT home sales 2013-2023 YTD

5 FRASER ROAD | WESTPORT, CT

Want to be featured?

Get in touch by heading over to our landing page to connect: CityLifestyle.com/Westport

CONSTRUCTION IS RAPIDLY PROGRESSING ON THIS NEW STANDARD OF EXCELLENCE

$9,450,000

203.454.8000 | Info@BrossChingas.com 355 Riverside Avenue, Westport, CT 06880 BrossChingas

BrossChingasBross

WWW.BROSSCHINGAS.COM FEBR UARY 2 0 2 3 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM / W E ST P O RT

Dedicated | Diligent | Determined Taking you from where YOU ARE to where YOU WANT TO BE! The lack of inventory remains the driving force in 2023 in Fairfield County and home values continue to appreciate. The demand surpasses supply - in Westport we’re down 36% compared to last year and 59% compared to 2020.* Having an agent who understands the local market matters. I’d love to be your expert guide when partnering with you through the process toward your next chapter!

Imke Lohs Licensed Real Estate Salesperson imke.lohs@compass.com M: 917.459.8382 O: 203.293.9715 Imke Lohs is a licensed real estate salesperson affiliated with Compass Connecticut, LLC, a licensed real estate broker and abides by Equal Housing Opportunity Laws. Source: SmartMLS

compass.com

Razzle Dazzle Them BEHIND THE SCENES OF A STAPLES PLAYERS SHOW ARTICLE BY ROBIN MOYER CHUNG PHOTOGRAPHY BY KERRY LONG

Cast and set of Guys & Dolls

B ACK STAGE | A RTS + CULTURE

Few performances can rival Broadway. But, probable twelve to seven, the annual musicals at Staples High School are in the running (say bona-fide industry folk, not just proud moms and dads). Pretty much every Staples Players (SP) production is a smash hit, this past fall’s Guys and Dolls being no exception. From an audience perspective, it’s easy to forget you’re in a school and the entire point is to teach kids. And this is what makes SP fascinating. The major forces behind these shows for the past 23 years are director and former Player David Roth ’84 and his wife and

co-director, former Player Kerry Long ’87, who joined him several years later. That David and Kerry consistently shake stardust from each script and student is remarkable. After learning they’re working with Paleolithic equipment makes it borderline miraculous (which I’ll get to later). Indeed, they make many strata of magic. But I was really curious about the practical magic, the physical exertion required to make an SP show shine, focusing on the perennially much-awaited fall musical. A bit about SP. Boasting a number of talented and committed leaders throughout

its 66 year history, SP was founded by English teacher Craig Matheson in 1957. One of his original members was Christoper Lloyd of Back to the Future and Taxi fame. Nine years later, Craig was promoted to vice principal and tapped Al Pia for his former position, who stayed for almost 30 years. In 1996 Judy Luster took the helm, then David and Kerry. During the summer, this couple, with input, determines the Big Fall Musical. Parameters are: around 60 cast members to include numerous students and a well-known crowd-pleaser so people buy tickets. Also, crowd-pleasing musicals tend to be excellent musicals. After this comes a bunch of administrative stuff: renting scripts, scheduling, etc. Then auditions, call-backs, and casting. But the cast is a small part of the squadron. Behind the scenes is an army of everyone else, including students and adult volunteers. While cast members are learning their roles onstage, crew members are learning their roles backstage. Students literally run the show. According to Kerry, “During the show, there is a stage manager calling the show from the lighting booth, two senior managers running the lighting board, two ‘side’ managers backstage, one each on stage left and stage right, in charge of running the crew and cast.” There are also costume and microphone quick-change assistants and a set crew, all led by student managers. Every cast member is required to paint sets and pitch in with crew work (sets, lighting, costumes, props). “We want to cultivate

kids who want to do theatre, not necessarily create ‘stars.’” David explains. As well, the adults are critical to the shows in numerous ways. They sell candy during intermission, help build sets, mentor students selling ads, arrange meals and snacks for hungry show folk, drive kids around town to post signs, and help build the mother-lode of sets and costumes. “We’re lucky enough when we do a show it’s a community event,” David states. Leading other facets of the show are costume designer Christie Stanger, tech director Jeff Hauser, music director Luke Rosenberg, choreographer Rachel MasIsaac Myers and fall music director Don Rickenback. They teach students and manage the massive volunteer force. Why so many people? Consider one aspect of the show: costumes. Christie works with a team of 20 students plus whoever “pops in” and parent volunteers. They create mood boards to kick off the design process. “The ideas blossom and we work right up until closing night making sure everything works as planned,” she explains. Which is an effective way of making a mountain of work sound like a field of daisies. Guys and Dolls needed 135 costumes. Some were custom-made, some started with pre-fabricated pieces (gambler’s suits, Havana costumes) and each had to be altered, embellished, accessorized and fine-tuned. The “Take Back the Mink” number alone required 13 dresses, each taking over ten hours to make.

Guys & Dolls rehearsal.

CONTINUED >

FEBR UARY 2 0 2 3 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM / W E ST P O RT

Building sets with tech director Jeff Hauser (in red), students, and parent volunteers.

Tech crew for Guys & Dolls.

According to Kerry, “During the show, there is a stage manager calling the show from the lighting booth, two senior managers running the lighting board, two ‘side’ managers backstage, one each on stage left and stage right, in charge of running the crew and cast.” 34

B ACK STAGE | A RTS + CULTURE

They also creatively figure out resourceful solutions. Christie says, “We have a large collection of costumes, accessories, notions, and crafting materials accrued over the years, but we also purchase things online and/or at local stores. I also use the Westport Gifting Economy to source items for free, whether those be toilet paper rolls we used to make the Beauty School Dropout hats for Grease or shoes or other items I think the community might have to give.” During show week they set up rows of ironing tables and steamers to freshen all 135 costumes before every show. They’re prepared to repair split seams, re-glue crystals, mend feather boas: whatever needs to happen to make the cast look terrific. Then they clean everything up, ensuring all buttons, gloves, and pocket squares are organized and labeled. Now imagine a similar amount of work for tech, sets, music, and everything else. Because every piece is vital for the show. Want to know what else is? A stage. The Staples stage is 30 years old. Its technology is so outdated they rely primarily on refurbished parts. Certain types of lighting are no longer possible, and the fly system is so antiquated it must be run by a professional rigger for around $100/hour. Not only does the near-obsolete equipment create obstacles for Kerry and David, it creates missed opportunities to teach the kids certain backstage skills. So beneath the glamor of the shows is business. Unlike many other programs and groups, these students are learning real-world skills in professions they may later pursue. They’re learning how to work in a team, manage a team, and be a standout star with the understanding it wouldn’t be possible without hundreds of people. And they’re seeing their accomplishments with every show.

STAPLES PL AYERS Staples Players are everyone involved in performances, from pit musicians to set designers. Staples’ comprehensive theatre department teaches tech theatre, directing, acting, stage management, sound, and every other facet of throwing a show. (Fall, musical; February, smaller show; April, one act festival; May, black box; June, production in Toquet Hall.) StaplesPlayers.com

FEBR UARY 2 0 2 3 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM / W E ST P O RT

A Promising

Young Man

Musician Drew Angus is on the Rise ARTICLE BY ROBIN MOYER CHUNG

(Photo: Mindy Briar)

LOCA L LIM E LIGH T | EN T E RTAI NME NT

At Sound on Sound (Photo: Shari Goldenberg)

(Photo: Shari Goldenberg)

Live at Park City (Photo: Shari Goldenberg)

You may remember Drew Angus (Staples ’07) as a kid running around Westport or as an American Idol finalist in 2016. Perhaps you recognized him in one of his two SNL appearances, or saw him open this summer’s 1st Annual “Sound on Sound Festival,” followed by the likes of Stevie Nicks, Dave Matthews, and The Lumineers. He and his self-described sound, “Americana and Rock ‘n Roll with a little bit of Funk and Retro Soul,” is gaining traction. So if you don’t know him now, you will. WLM was honored to have him perform at our Reader’s Choice celebration this past December, and asked him a few questions so you can get to know him better.

best. Tom has been a big influence in my sound, and when he passed I was crushed. He inspired Me + You, which I wrote with my buddy Neil Herman. I wrote Made to Love You with my buddy Matt Giella for my best friends’ wedding. I love this song because it’s sweet and honest. It quickly got picked up by many first dance and wedding song playlists. I get DM’s from couples all over the world who are using my song in their wedding. It feels really good knowing that something I’ve written affects people in a positive way.

I also recently started working with another organization called Backline Care which provides mental health services to music industry professionals.

WLM: WHAT ARE TWO OF YOUR FAVORITE SONGS - ONES YOU WROTE OR OTHERS - AND WHY? Drew Angus (DA): I Won’t Back Down by Tom Petty - Tom Petty is one of my biggest musical heroes and I think his record Full Moon Fever is one of the all-time

WLM: TELL ME ABOUT THE CHARITABLE ORGANIZATIONS YOU SUPPORT. DA: Music Cares offers an amazing support system for people working in this cutthroat industry. This is an important organization to me because during the pandemic they provided grants and resources to artists like me who were out of work and trying to navigate the early stages of lockdown. They are a fantastic group.

WLM: IN ONE OF YOUR TWO SNL SKITS, YOU SHARED THE STAGE WITH BOTH JIMMY FALLON AND HARRY STYLES. WHO DID YOU LIKE BETTER AND WHY? CAN’T CHOOSE BOTH. DA: This isn't like ice cream, I can’t just pick one flavor! They’re both fun and funny people. Jimmy is a great comedian and late night host and Harry is a musical voice of a generation. I loved working with both of them and hope to again in the future.

WLM: WAS IT HARD NOT TO LAUGH WHILE WATCHING JIMMY DURING REHEARSALS? DA: Rehearsals for SNL were wild. It was quick, high energy, and exciting. Honestly I was focused on the job initially, but yes there were many moments of

CONTINUED >

FEBR UARY 2 0 2 3 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM / W E ST P O RT

In Verso Studio at Westport Library. (Photo: Mindy Briar)

(Photo: Mindy Briar)

LOCA L LIM E LIGH T | EN T E RTAI NME NT

“I GET DM’S FROM COUPLES ALL OVER THE WORLD WHO ARE USING MY SONG IN THEIR WEDDING. IT FEELS REALLY GOOD KNOWING THAT SOMETHING I’VE WRITTEN AFFECTS PEOPLE IN A POSITIVE WAY.”

laughter and joking around. Jimmy and the rest of the cast were cracking jokes the whole time while they reworked the script and blocking. It all happened so quickly that by the end I turned to my friend Ian who also [a musician in the skit] and said “Did you just see what I saw?!”

TELLING YOUR PARENTS THAT LETTING YOU SEE THAT WAS A REALLY BAD IDEA?

DA: My experience on the show was such a whirlwind and when the dust settled I was left thinking “Ok, what now?” I met so many incredible singers and musicians who never got a second of TV time in that casting process. It’s a tough game show and you have to play the game to get further in the contest. I made it to the Top 75 before I got kicked off and although I had a great time, I think that was enough for me.

DA: I mean, I got a good song out of it so it couldn’t have been that bad. Wrecking Ball is the story of my parents moving out of my childhood home, then we all watched those memories being buried by a bulldozer. Walking through each room for the last time, I was reminded of so many moments. Funny moments, like our annual Christmas party when my uncle popped a bottle of red wine and stained the ceiling. Scary moments, like when a hurricane caused a tree to crash through the bathroom window and split the toilet in half. And happy moments, like when my brothers and I would climb up on our parents’ bed for a nighttime story. While it’s sad to lose the physical places we grow up in, Wrecking Ball is a song to remind us that material things don’t matter when you have stories and people to share them with. That’s what keeps memories alive.

WLM: YOUR SONG WRECKING BALL RECALLS HOW UPSETTING IT WAS TO WITNESS THE RAZING OF THE HOUSE IN WHICH YOU WERE RAISED. HAVE YOU EVER CONSIDERED

DrewAngus.com Music on Spotify and Apple @drewangusmusic - Instagram, Facebook, TikTok, YouTube

WLM: IN A 2016 INKLINGS ARTICLE, YOU ADMIT THAT A LOT OF WHAT GOES ON BEHIND THE AI SCENE “ISN’T PRETTY.” FOR ALL OF US FORMER AI JUNKIES, PLEASE SPILL SOME DIRT.

FEBR UARY 2 0 2 3 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM / W E ST P O RT

TREES · MASONRY · LANDSCAPING

MAZ LAWN & TREE

203-450-3279 mazlawnandtree.com 504 Bridgeport Ave Shelton, CT 06484

ALL YOU NEED IS LOVE AND AMAZING FOOD!

Connecticut 203.353.8000 marciaselden.com New York 212.921.4100

Art Rooted in History, Success Fueled by Risk

LINDA COLLETTA’S JOURNEY

ARTICLE BY CAROLINE BARNEY | PHOTOGRAPHY BY CHLOE CRESPI

M AK E R’S ST U D IO | A RTS + CULTURE

LINDA COLLETTA

Linda Colletta is a self-taught abstract painter who focuses on process, color, and scale. Her work is bold and infused with elements of history, hard work, and heroism. It speaks to the triumph of the marginalized and repressed. The physical process of her art is as important as the piece itself. Starting with an unprimed canvas, Linda’s process includes pressing paint through the layers of the canvas with her body weight, peeling them apart, flipping them over, and doing it again, over and over. She then tears her painting into strips and weaves them back together. “I am weaving paintings into three dimensional forms as a way to coalesce gender-driven movements throughout history,” says Linda. The dramatic scale of her paintings and the immersive process itself are not just part of the art, but a representation of who she is and what she has to say. Getting to this point, though, was a journey full of highs and lows, one she recalls with gratitude for what she learned along the way. “It took me years to realize that I could [paint] for a living. That I was good enough,” Linda says. “When I

quit my other jobs, it was scary. I had to teach myself again. I had to ask myself, who am I as an artist? What do I want to paint?” During this time, she credits local friends and business owners with her first big break, interior designers who sold painting to clients and stores who hung them on their walls. Her acceptance into the Westport Fine Arts Festival was another pivot point. “It was the first time I put together a cohesive body of work to hang and show. I was a local artist and the community loved meeting me. To this day, I have people calling me after seeing my work there.” But it wasn’t until 2019 that she took the daring step of creating and hosting her own pop-up solo show. She rented a storefront in downtown Westport and displayed a new body of work. In the past, she painted a lot of things that she thought people would like, what they wanted, and although some of it sold, it never felt like it was her own voice. This show became her chance to do whatever she wanted. But would it sell? She took a risk, financially CONTINUED >

FEBR UARY 2 0 2 3 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM / W E ST P O RT

and professionally. Set her own vision. Recognized that she sees something people don’t and trusted that. She returned to her NYC roots and aimed to be epic. She leaned into her love of color - a child of the 80’s after all, hot pink in her DNA. Most important, she dared to be bold. The show became a creative statement of who she is and what she wanted to do. And it sold out. Success fueled by the risks she was willing to take. Since then, she’s been in many prestigious shows, such as the 2022 Electric Woven show in Westport, and the London Art Fair in January 2023. She believes the secret to her success is her continuing to follow the same approach. She does it her way. She trusts herself and her deep learning of the artists who have forged new ways before her. She pushes boundaries in her work as she honors the history of the craft itself. In taking risks, she hopes to add something new to larger conversations. Anchored and yet freed by what others have done, she pushes herself not just for the outcome but for the process itself. The self-expression of it all resonates deeply in her art, reminding us all to demand to be seen and heard just as her art does. LindaColletta.com

M AK E R’S ST U D IO | A RTS + CULTURE

FEBR UARY 2 0 2 3 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM / W E ST P O RT

THREE DECADES OF EXCELLENCE

Over the past 30 years, Speedsport Tuning has grown from a small Porsche specialty shop to a full service, independent company serving Porsche street, competition and vintage enthusiasts nationwide.

uncompromising excellence of our competition department. Speedsport Tuning’s skilled preparation and support services have helped our clients achieve hundreds of podiums and countless championships.

Our vintage department is globally recognized for its expertise and skill, developed over decades of working on some of the world’s most coveted Porsches. Utilizing specialized tools and a watchmaker’s precision, our vintage technicians deliver the care discerning owners can trust, even on the rarest of Porsches.

For modern street Porsches, we’ve been the trusted resource for those seeking an alternative to the dealer service department. Our factory trained technicians can even care for your Taycan.

Track enthusiasts at every experience level benefit from the

COMPETITION • STREET • VINTAGE

We understand the passions that drive Porschephiles are as diverse as the cars themselves. No matter which Porsche you drive, or how you drive it, we’ve got your back.

203-730-0311

service@SpeedSportTuning.net SpeedSportTuning.net • 52 Miry Brook Road, Danbury, CT 06810 facebook.com/SpeedSportCT

@speedsporttuning

Where to Valentine ROMANTIC SPOTS AND IDEAS ARTICLE BY DISCOVERWESTPORTCT.COM

Westport Country Playhouse

Westport Astronomical Society

Bar MoCA

The Cottage

PAL Ice Rink (Photo: Dawn Shmaruk)

DiscoverWestport.com is the go-to resource for shopping, dining, parks, events, and other helpful listings. For Valentine’s Day, here are ten romantic locations for you and your special someone:

O UR TOWN | ARTS + CU LTURE

WESTPORT COUNTRY PLAYHOUSE Punctuate the night with an exclamation point! Get tickets to a play at this famous theatre and dazzle your partner with stunning stories and performances. WestportPlayhouse.org

MOCA While you’re on a roll, visit MoCA for a dose of modern art and culture. Top it off with a cocktail at BarMoCA’s happy hour (Thursdays 5-7 p.m.) or peel away from the bar early and co-create your own masterpiece over a drink at Paint & Sip (Thursdays 5:45-7:15 p.m.). MoCAWestport.org

THE COTTAGE Connect over a beautiful dinner and a glass of wine. Let renowned chef Brian Lewis and his team create a masterpiece for your date night. With exquisite culinary options, you’ll impress your date with your excellent taste in food and atmosphere. TheCottage.kitchen

LIMP IN...RUN OUT SPORTS ORTHOPEDICS PRE/POST OP CARE VESTIBULAR PELVIC FLOOR DRY NEEDLING HOME VISITS ALWAYS 1 ON 1 212-353-8693 zionpt.com

PERSONAL TRAINING | COACHING INDOOR/OUTDOOR ENGAGEMENT ATHLETE CONDITIONING CORPORATE WELLNESS EXPERIENCES 203-255-2320 sherpafit.com

WESTPORT ASTRONOMICAL SOCIEITY Align the stars at our observatory. Gaze at the beauty of our solar system with the one you love. The viewing experience, with the dome’s 12½ Newtonian Reflector (i.e. a huge telescope), is next to none. WAS-CT.org

WESTPORT PAL ICE RINK Bring your date for a skate before the season ends! Westport’s PAL Ice Rink is on the water next to the Longshore Marina. It’s a perfect place to embarrass yourself (or not!) and share a hot cocoa with your special someone afterwards. Hold hands and enjoy the cold winter breeze while gliding on ice. WPALRink.com CONTINUED >

Saul Zion, DPT, SMP, CMP, AHC and Jean Paul Desrosiers Free Consultation – zoom or in person 1555 Post Road East, Westport, CT 06880 FEBR UARY 2 0 2 3 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM / W E ST P O RT

Grace K. Salmon Park Bridgewater Chocolates Lux, Bond & Green

Westport Library

O UR TOWN | ARTS + CU LTURE

Le Rouge by Aarti

Blossom + Stem

GRACE K. SALMON PARK Experience the serenity of Westport’s riverside park. Take a stroll in the beautiful park gardens, view the Saugatuck River, or sit and observe the gorgeous surroundings from one of their benches. Imperial & Baker Avenues

LUX BOND & GREEN Looking to up your gift-giving game? Lux Bond & Green can provide you with amazing pieces of jewelry and sophisticated watches. Or if things are getting serious… you can pick up the special ring for your special someone. LBGreen.com

WESTPORT LIBRARY/LIBRARY OF THINGS Borrow the perfect romance novel and enjoy the season on your own, or share the experience with a partner. Because books aren’t the only thing you can borrow here. Plan a cozy night in and borrow kitchen equipment to cook a meal together, or a board game if you enjoy getting competitive. Puzzles, sports items, and other equipment are also available. WestportLibrary.org

BRIDGEWATER CHOCOLATE/LE ROUGE HANDMADE CHOCOLATES & CAKES BY AARTI Nothing speaks of desire quite like chocolate. Bridgewater and Aarti deliver the best treats to show your affection. Deliver a package of deliciously smooth chocolates to your Valentine to make their day a bit sweeter. BridgewaterChocolate.com LeRougeByAarti.com

BLOSSOM + STEM What says “I love you” more than a beautiful bouquet of flowers? These floral experts can recommend and prepare an arrangement that dazzles their eyes as much as their heart. Whether classic roses or something out of the ordinary, they’ll make your Valentine bloom with joy. BlossomStem.com

Erica Knows Westport! Erica is a top 1% ranked realtor globally. Erica’s philosophy includes providing concierge level service while presenting insightful and analytical real estate recommendations tailored for each client’s success. Serving Westport & surrounding areas.

Reach out today to discuss your real estate needs! Scan the QR code below to send me an email.

646.303.0303 erica@eahomesct.com www.eahomesct.com V @eahomesct.realestate B /eahomesct

DiscoverWestportCT.com

FEBR UARY 2 0 2 3 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM / W E ST P O RT

S K I N-T I G H T E N E R O F T O M O R R OW DR . O’C ON N ELL BR IN G S US THE EL L AC OR SYSTEM

Dr. O'Connell (Photo: Melani Lust)

ARTICLE BY ROBIN MOYER CHUNG

S KIN CA R E | BEAU TY

Non- and minimally-invasive procedures have revolutionized aesthetics. Brilliant technology can now, without surgery, brighten, tighten, lift, and lighten almost every inch of one’s body. Drawback being, it’s easy to forget that, though knifeless, these aesthetic procedures are hard-core and constantly being improved. Consider some of the equipment in these treatments: needles, lasers, injectable liquids. All can injure if not used properly. You don’t want a “technician” shooting toxins and hormones into your face or blasting your epidermis with lasers strong enough to burn (the first medical treatment using a laser was to annihilate a tumor.) Pile onto this innovation: companies are always developing and enhancing technology. You can get a laser facial or a cellulite reduction procedure, but are there newer options with much better results? Beauty is pain. It’s also expensive. Make sure you know what’s available and who can best do it. Westport’s Dr. O’Connell, a top plastic surgeon nationally, is known for personally administering all BOTOX, Dysport® and injectable fillers himself. These are important procedures that shouldn’t be delegated to someone less knowledgeable. He’s expert in the contours and musculature of the face. He’s also expert in the “ingredients” of each injectable, knows which ones are premium, and understands how they interact with the human body. With this knowledge, he achieves the best results both for aesthetic and long-lasting effect. He also knows how to lessen side effects such as bruising and swelling, or worse. (Unfortunately, no one can guarantee side effects won’t happen.) Further, Dr. O’s positioned to find and evaluate “cutting edge” technology and bring it home to us. He explains, “As President of our State Plastic Surgical Society and former national spokesman, I'm speaking to plastic surgeons throughout the country on a daily basis.” Which is how he discovered the Ellacor® System, a much-buzzed-about skin tightener for moderate to severe wrinkles. Ellacor® is a revolutionary technology that uses hollow needles to “micro-core™”: puncture and remove a strategic pattern of skin. Unlike lasers, it can be used for any skin type.

Before and 90 days post-treatment.

“LEA RN IN G A B OUT N E W WAYS TO HE L P MY PAT I E N TS A N D N E W DEV ELOPMEN TS IN THE FIE L D ARE SOME O F T H E T H I N G S T H AT MA K E MY JOB FUN AN D E XCITIN G .”

Micro-coring triggers the body’s natural collagen production as the targeted area heals. The tissue is forced to reconnect with tissue across the removed epidermis, tightening the skin remaining. Before this, removing skin could only be done with surgery (facelifts, brow lifts). The result is firmer, smoother skin. “All prior technologies create an injury in the skin and rely upon the body's healing ability to generate the aesthetic result,” Dr. O explains. “But the same amount of skin is still there after the treatment.” By actually removing skin, Ellacor® is more effective and longer-lasting than these treatments. The system works almost everywhere skin exists. “The possibilities are almost endless - already I'm doing brow lifting with it and I've been treating the lower face, neck, submental area and nasolabial folds.” No surprise, companies are scrambling to replicate the system. “One of the laser companies is already trying to create a similar product. I've seen it in action - but it's not the same.”

Although Ellacor® recommends up to three treatments spaced a month apart, Dr. O has seen results with as little as one. “One of the things I like is that it's incremental. For a younger patient only one or two sessions might be necessary. We're currently seeing beautiful results within the first week and the patient's are our best proponents of the procedure.” This treatment “requires injection of local anesthesia and knowledge of the anatomy, including the thickness of the skin in various areas of the face and body.“ Tough to trust even the micro-elimination of one’s largest organ to anyone but a physician. He adds “Learning about new ways to help my patients and new developments in the field are some of the things that make my job fun and exciting.” Fun and exciting, too, for his patients. For more information: PlasticSurgeryCT.com Ellacor.com

CONTINUED >

FEBR UARY 2 0 2 3 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM / W E ST P O RT

Dr. O with the Ellacor® System

S KIN CA R E | BEAU TY

ART

II ALREADY ALREADY HAVE HAVE EVERYTHING EVERYTHING II NEED NEED

But Don't cross me “THE POSSIBIL ITIE S ARE AL MOST EN DLESS - A L RE ADY I’ M D OIN G

thanks for the love babe!

BROW LIFTING W ITH IT AN D I’ VE BEEN TREATIN G THE LOW E R FACE , N EC K , SUB ME N TAL ARE A AN D N ASOL AB IAL FOL D S.”

@salondada_ct

833 Post Rd E, Westport

(203) 557-9100

FEBR UARY 2 0 2 3 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM / W E ST P O RT

Providing in-home care is our profession. Touching lives is our privilege. As tenured caregivers by choice, our role is gratifying. We strive to develop endearing relationships by providing care centered on an individual’s unique life, needs and interests. Care that brings out the unique person from within. Building a legacy of excellence in care by enriching the lives of others. Touching lives…one person at a time.

sheraton.care | 203.221.0221

256 Post Road East, Suite 204, Westport CT 06880 Non-medical in-home care as needed | Memory care | Expressive arts

OF WE S T P OR T, C T Registrations are open for all our dance programs. dance in a safe environment with The Best Dance teachers.

Open to Adults, Kids and Tots in Group Classes, Private Lessons, Livestream Classes Available. Director Enrique Alarcon | (203) 341-8900 | 222 Post Rd. West TheDanceCollective | thedancecollectivect.com

HOME DECOR | GIFTS | DESIGN SERVICES 1799 Post Road East • (203) 292-5700 • thepostct.com • V @thepostct

ARTICLE BY MEREDITH GUINNESS

Championing the Works of Women Invest In Her Art Gives Women Artists a Much-Needed Platform

Diana Mashia, founder.

SAVINA CAPECCI, 180 BPM, ACRYLIC ON CANVAS, 2021

A RT IST ’S PA LE T T E | ARTS + CULTURE

Reneesha Mccoy is a self-proclaimed “witness of women.” A self-taught North Carolina-based artist, she creates works shaped by her own body and her mind’s strength, often with themes of motherhood. “I do believe elevating the work of female artists collectively will initiate change in a positive way,” she says. “We’re all exposed to the rawness surrounding us, each with different interpretations." Reneesha is referring to Invest In Her Art (IIHA), a Westport-based “discovery platform” that showcases the creations of international female artists who, like Reneesha, are imbued with vision, drive, and sometimes jaw-dropping talent. CONTINUED >

TOMIRA WILCOX, FRACTURED MOMENTS, ARCHIVAL INKJET PRINT ON PLEXIGLASS, 2021 SIZE: 26 IN. X 34 IN.

ALBA PÁRAMO, XICOTLI TLAPALLI, AQUATINT, GOUACHE AND JAPANESE GOLDEN WATERCOLOR, 2020

FEBR UARY 2 0 2 3 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM / W E ST P O RT

Debuting online in May 2020, the idea was actually years in the making, says IIHA founder Diana Mashia. Having double-majored in art history and economics at Barnard, Diana has always found ways to feed her imaginative streak while staying firmly grounded. Spending her early career working both on Wall Street and in advocacy at the Alliance for the Arts, she began to see a burgeoning connection between expression and business. In 2019 she returned to school – this time Columbia University – to earn a master’s in public policy, a move that would spur her to forge her own path to champion women artists. “I’ve always had an entrepreneurial mindset,” Diana says. IIHA is more than an online gallery for buyers who want a statement piece to hang over the couch or a series for the office hallway. Led by art historians, storytellers, strategists, and media professionals, IIHA aims to increase visibility of, and accessibility to, works by women and binary individuals, eventually transforming art education so schoolchildren like Mashia’s own see as many of Georgia O’Keeffe’s clouds as they do Vincent van Gogh’s sunflowers.

Studio of Theodosia Marchant.

A RT IST ’S PA LE T T E | ARTS + CULTURE

There’s work to be done. Research shows that from 2008 to 2019 only 2% of art auction sales represented work by women. In addition, only around 11% of female works are in museum collections, Diana says. “Just as in venture capital, I saw we needed women at the table,” she says. “There is a huge gap in equity in the art world.” Many of the 4,000+ artists (25% are local) IIHA curates consider questions of what it means to be a woman or the place of the feminine in nature. For instance, Alba Páramo, a Mexican-born printmaker who now lives in Paris, creates etchings that evoke her reveries of love and sacred connection through images of animals inspired by mythology, literature, cultural history, and Tibetan art. In Los Angeles, Greek artist Theodora Marchant creates voluptuous Picasso-esque bodies that speak to intimacy, emotion, and the human mind. “In my subjects, I aim to express a universal language that remains timeless and incorruptible,” she says. “Art, for me, is life. It’s the joy that connects us,” Diana adds. “There’s still a long way to go, but we feel the tailwinds behind us.” InvestInHerArt.com

WENCKE UHL, TWO PEAS IN A POD, ACRYLIC AND PAPER ON CANVAS, 2021

TARA BLACKWELL, JUSTICE NOW, MIXED MEDIA, 2020

Artist Krista Dedrick-Lai

RENEESHA MCCOY, UNTITLED, MIXED MEDIA ON COTTON PAPER, 2022

FEBR UARY 2 0 2 3 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM / W E ST P O RT

Bir thday Par ties | Kids Spor ts Classes | Private & Public Summer Camps | Bike Lessons (4 34) 825-4 689

LANDSCAPE DESIGN MASONRY PROPERTY MAINTENANCE 3369 Fairﬁeld Ave, Bridgeport, Connecticut (203)923-2648

jpphilbinlandscapes@gmail.com

SARAHOLL ANDSPORTS.COM

THE ROLE OF ART IN A MODERN SALON 5ive Fingaz

SALON DADA EXHIBITS

“My work is about bringing my energy out and sharing my positivity with the world. I love to display my thoughts on canvas or repurposed material of any kind. My purpose is to spread love and kindness to all who view it.” LoveMoreThanEver.com

ARTICLE BY ROBIN MOYER CHUNG

NANCY LANDAUER

H OT SP OT | ARTS + CU LTURE

Art is a merciless industry. Yet in its trenches lies a wonderful network of creative types who, upon finding their own success, reach out to help others. Since Salon dada’s celebrated opening two years ago, co-founders Benjamin Lagasse and Steven Gemignani have devoted space to exhibitions and events, welcoming local artists and introducing them to the community. Here are three of their favorites:

5IVE FINGAZ Salon dada: “For our inaugural artist we went with 5ive Fingaz. We wanted him because his activism and community involvement and philanthropy are parallel to our vision, along with his creating cool street art.” 5ive Fingaz: “The energy of the people that work [at Salon dada] is amazing! The clients are also very positive and kind. I received numerous emails and calls about purchasing my work while my work was hanging in the salon, or just a social post about how a certain piece uplifted them.

Sd: “Nancy Landauer has a really cool and modern style similar to the dada artists of their period; a modern resurrection.” Nancy: “The minute I entered the beautiful new salon space, I got the vibe that Ben and Steve created. The music and decor were so happening and on trend - I wanted to be a part of the excitement. “I loved exhibiting at Salon dada as it put me in front of the exact demographic that I felt would connect with my artwork. I was sure the clientele would understand my imagery. “My work explores the connection between nostalgic imagery and the emotions they evoke in the viewer. I love creating a narrative. I tell a story in each piece using fragments from pop culture of the 1960’s and 70’s. I choose iconic fragments from childhood television shows, logos, toys, comic book characters, music - all juxtaposed against a backdrop of funky graffiti or handwritten lyrics. Many of my pieces explore the idealized American family, early life in the Utopian suburbs, and marriage.” NancyLandauer.com

Guy Stanley Philoche

Nancy Landauer (Photo: Mindy Briar) 5ive Fingaz

GUY STANLEY PHILOCHE Sd: We’ve planned a collection installation coming up in February from Guy Stanley Philoche, an artist who has gained much attention. During the shut-down he bought a painting from a local artist for every painting he sold. (Editor’s note: Guy is continuing to collect works from artists, primarily in the tristate area.) Guy: "The Philoche Collection is pieces from all over the world. I had just finished a sold-out show at Cavalier Gallery and wanted to do something special for myself. I was going to buy a Rolex watch. “Then the pandemic, a lot of my friends reached out needing help. I recorded a video and put it on Instagram about how I’m looking to buy as much artwork as possible. My budget was $20K. $250K later, I have over 400 pieces. “I didn’t care about [artists’] sob stories because everyone’s life is hard, but I wanted to buy stuff that I loved. Art saved my life and I owe it a debt I can never pay back. I promised myself I’d open doors for other artists. Every time I sell a painting I buy a painting. I had an amazing gallery that believed in me. I’m happy with my slice of the pie, and if someone is hungry I’ll share it.” PhilocheStudios.com SalonDada.com 833 Post Road East (203) 557-9100 CONTINUED >

FEBR UARY 2 0 2 3 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM / W E ST P O RT

Steven Gemignani and Benjamin Lagasse, co-owners of Salon dada (Photo: Maya Porrino)

By Nancy Landauer By Nancy Landauer

“M Y WO R K I S A B O U T B R I N G I N G M Y E NE RGY O U T A N D S H A R I N G M Y PO S I T I V I T Y W I T H T H E WO R LD. I LOV E TO D I S PLAY M Y T H O UGH TS O N CA N VAS O R R E PU R PO S E D M AT E R I A L OF A N Y KI N D. M Y PU R PO S E I S TO S PR E A D LOV E A N D KI N D N E S S TO A LL W H O V I E W I T.” - 5 I V E F I N GA Z

“M Y WO R K E X PLO R E S T H E C O N N E C T I ON B E T W E E N N O STA LG I C I M AG E RY A N D T H E E MOT I O N S T H E Y E VO KE I N T H E V I E W E R . I LOV E C R E AT I N G A N A R R AT I V E .” - N A N CY LA N DAU E R

H OT SP OT | ARTS + CU LTURE

by Guy Stanley Philoche

By Nancy Landauer

Erica Adler LCSW At Northstar Wellness we provide important support systems that allow our patients and their families to experience relief and hope. Specializing in eating disorders, anxiety, depression, life transitions and relationships.

Connections, can heal. Begin your journey here. northstarwellness.care hellonorthstarwellness@gmail.com 203.246.7615

FEBR UARY 2 0 2 3 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM / W E ST P O RT

WOOD BIN Solid Wood Furniture

Come in and see our large selection of Solid Wood Furniture.

- Finished and Ready to finish Furniture - Professional Finishing and Delivery Available -

305 Federal Road Brookfield, CT | (203) 775-1770 | woodbinfurniture.com 70

Personalized journeys that change your perspective.

WE MAKE GETTING DRESSED

fun...

THANK YOU WESTPORT FOR READERS CHOICE

Best Boutique 2 YEARS IN A ROW!

RENE PRASAD Westport, CT (866) 869-1760 grandexplorations.com

CUR ATED FASHION WITH A WEST COAST VIBE

117 Post Road East Westport (203) 557-4157

west2westport.com FEBR UARY 2 0 2 3 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM / W E ST P O RT

Parker Harding

Westport’s Getting Its Green On! Improving our Downtown Waterfront ARTICLE BY ROBIN MOYER CHUNG | PHOTOGRAPHY BY JOHN VIDELER

LOCA LLY SOU R CE D | R E AL E STATE

Show of hands - who’s familiar with the benches across from downtown Starbucks? Where you can sip your coffee by the river, surrounded by bits of litter, weeds crawling through the cracks, and cars whizzing by less than three feet from your back? Seriously. Westport can do much, much better. We’re one of the few towns in Connecticut - and the only town in Fairfield County - to be graced with both a beach and a river. That’s potentially a lot of lovely views. Plans to improve these waterfront views began in 2014 and, as of your reading this article, an important part of these plans are in formal approval. Specifically, the Parker Harding part. Let’s start at the quasi-beginning: Westporters have been sprucing up their public environs ever since the first farmer stuck an onion seed in the dirt, long before Westport became a town (1835). Actually, even before the farmers flew in, but that’s another article. Throughout the ensuing century, Saugatuck River was regarded as a route for shipping and merchants, never an enviable source of beautiful views. In all fairness, water views didn’t start to become popular until the late 1920’s, and a bunch of infrastructure had already defiled most of them in almost every populated town. We should forgive our forebears the randomness they sprouted along Saugatuck’s banks. (Side note: the land beautifying our Westport Library was once part of the town dump. Next to the river. Water views meant nothing.) However, not every “view” is a “good view.” One of these not-pretty-horizons is Parker Harding, the downtown parking lot behind Main Street. We can slug endless Bar Taco margs across the fluid strip and never convince ourselves the lot isn’t an eyesore.

This view is courtesy of our more contemporary antecedents who also deserve a bit of leniency. When I-95 was being built, the excavated dirt required a new home. So workers filled in the bank behind Main Street with this mud, upon which they built the parking lot. Which, for many of us, has been our SUV’s second home for years. Credit where it’s due. So Westport continuously evolves. Which brings us back to the latest project(s). Former Selectman Jim Marpe commissioned the master plan during the downtown downtick. Residents then may recall the empty storefronts and restaurant closings. Years rolled by, Covid happened, a large number of you charming readers moved to town, and now Main Street is roaring back to life, bringing with it a groundswell desire to implement those plans. With ARPA funding, First Selectwoman Jen Tooker commissioned a plan to overhaul Parker Harding, Jesup Green, and the land around the Levitt Pavilion all the way to the Imperial Parking lot. Town parking lots have also been tidied up, but that’s not as exciting as downtown. I won’t deep-dive into the library environs part, as it won’t happen until later. The sidewalk and cross-through road - you know, the road that disgorges drivers and terrifies pedestrians in Parker Harding will be ripped out and replaced with grass, native plantings, and seating, so we can truly enjoy the waterfront and improve optics from across the river. The lot will be re-striped to accommodate the increasing size of our rides and, perhaps, the pedestrian bridge will be re-vamped. I write “perhaps” because the re-vamping of said bridge, which many of you have probably never noticed, will be offered to a private investor. Other opportunities may present themselves - a pavilion for

However, not every “view” is a “good view.” One of these not-prettyhorizons is Parker Harding, the downtown parking lot behind Main Street. We can slug endless Bar Taco margs across the fluid strip and never convince ourselves the lot isn’t an eyesore.

CONTINUED >

FEBR UARY 2 0 2 3 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM / W E ST P O RT

A Study of Existing and Potential Opportunities Along the Westport Riverfront. Utilizing Key Views and Features Plays an Important Role to Shaping the Master Plan.

LOCA LLY SOU R CE D | R E AL E STATE

Plans to improve these waterfront views began in 2014 and, as of your reading this article, an important part of these plans are in formal approval. Specifically, the Parker Harding part.

our awards-winning Farmer’s Market, a bird watching area near Dead Man's pond, elements of a riverwalk around the library land. (According to Randy Herbertson, head of Downtown Plan Implementation Committee ((DPIC)), the current path swiveling around there is “overgrown and borderline scary.”) So if you want to be part of the Westport legacy, now’s your time. Well, soon. There’s even talk of dredging the river and installing a dock near the library for boaters who want to boat in, shop

and dine, then boat out. Which is delightful for those in the boats. But if they raise Cribari bridge for a passing pleasure vessel during rush hour, I imagine drivers in the Saugatuck clot won’t be as delighted. (I’m sure Westport will find a solution.) If you want to be part of the action, attend a public DPIC meeting on the second Thursday of every month at 8:30 a.m. or contact them through DowntownWestportCT.com/ Reconnecting-the-Riverfront.

FEBR UARY 2 0 2 3 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM / W E ST P O RT

WE OFFER THE FOLLOWING SERVICES • Concierge concussion practice • Individualized care • Baseline testing • Concussion treatment and clearance

Dr. Audrey Paul MD PHD

THINKING ABOUT SELLING?

Garden City Location 901 Stewart Ave. Suite 212 Garden City NY, 11530 516-726-9884 kidsconcuss@gmail.com

Westport Location 127 Kings Hwy North Westport CT. 06880 203-936-6805 kidsconcuss@gmail.com

NOW IS THE TIME!

E XCEPT ION A L CA RE, CONS I STENT COMMUNI CAT IO N A ND M A RKE T ING D E S IG NE D S P E C IF ICA L LY F O R YO U R H O ME

SELLING OR PURCHASING | 203-993-0159 | corinne.minlionica@raveis.com

The things you love, LOCAL. Shop SAVVYANDGRACEWESTPORT.COM THE BEST place for gift BASKETS. Made to ORDER! | CORPORATE • BIRTHDAY • BABY • HIS & HERS

DOWNTOWN, MAIN STREET «

B@savvyandgrace V@savvyandgracewestport

WE SHIP!

IN-CLINIC & IN-HOME

Veterinary Care Dr. Jessica Melman Dr. Allison Duman 105 Woodrow Ave, Southport

SHARE THE LOVE

(475) 888-9039

bespokevetservice.com

(Photo by Heidi Curran)

TUNE UP YOUR MIND & BODY FOR OPTIMAL WELLNESS SUGI ACUPRESSURE offers the health benefits of acupuncture, but without using needles--just manual pressure. It is an effective style of bodywork therapy well-suited to treat acute aches and pains or chronic maladies. Reduce inflammation and boost your mood. Manage anxiety and depression. Maintain overall wellness with a truly holistic approach that unifies the mind and body.

By appointment only.

I NJAE CHOE PHD, LMT 20+ Years Experience | sugiacupressure.com Serving Westport, Weston and surrounding towns. House calls available.

Text 646.823.5386 | injae.choe@gmail.com |

@sugiacupressure

New Location: Sugi Acupressure, 21 Bridge Square, Westport, CT 06880 FEBR UARY 2 0 2 3 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM / W E ST P O RT

ELEVATE YOUR CLOSET 8 WAYS TO O R G A N I Z E A N D

Every woman dreams of an organized and beautiful closet space, but it often comes last on the list of places that get their time and attention. Follow our eight tips for transforming and elevating your closet as you Spring clean and declutter for a more peaceful, inspired space you absolutely love. A sneak peek inside the closet of active mom and entrepreneur Keri Tarantino of Leawood, KS reveals a dressing room that rivals celebrity homes in Beverly Hills. But it didn’t come easily. Keri painstakingly planned, designed and curated the space with care. When we first stepped inside, we gasped as our eyes beheld the glory. No detail went unnoticed in this dreamy dressing room. Here are some guiding principles that can be drawn from her exquisite taste and vision. How you organize your closet will of course differ based on the size of your space, the size of your wardrobe, and the kind of life you lead. But applying the guidelines Keri used in her space will result in a much more organized and aesthetically pleasing space.

USE R EAL ESTATE W ISELY Reserve the front and middle of the closet for clothes worn most often. For someone who gets dressed for work each morning at 6 a.m., work clothes should be at the front of the closet. Store lesser-worn items like formal wear and out-of-season clothes toward the back and on the upper shelves. The large mirror and counter with chair provides the perfect spot to select jewelry and finalize finishing outfit touches. While every closet is different, the key here is everything has a home.

T R E N D SE T T E R | HOM E + DE S I GN

ARTICLE BY HALEY WILLIAMS | PHOTOGRAPHY BY CASSANDRA CASTANEDA

INJECT ST YLE INTO YOUR SPACE

ORGA NIZE BY K IND A ND COLOR

Group clothes by kind first and color second. This ensures quick location of that favorite shirt when it’s needed. Bonus - it’s easy on the eye. Group like with like: Gather belts, sweaters, long-sleeve shirts, work pants, dresses, button-down shirts, jeans, shorts, etc., and decide the best place to store each item as a group (e.g., hang pants in the closet, fold and stack sweaters in a bureau). Working with groupings will help you figure out how much space you need and the best way to store each type of item.

03 04 NEGATIVE SPACE

Using space efficiently is important, but keep in mind every good design includes some negative space. For instance, consider adding built-ins on the long wall of your closet but keep the short wall open with a mirror.

FACE CLOTHES THE SA ME DIR ECTION

It may seem silly, but when dealing with a small space, little things count. Hanging all clothes the same direction is a no-brainer for continuity in your closet.

BAG & SHOE STOR AGE Alternate the way shoes are facing. This ultimately helps fit more on each row and provide a visually appealing way to display those prized possessions. Everyone understands the frustration of searching for that one clutch when rushing out for the evening. Bags benefit from a space all their own. Get clear container storage for small bags and purses so you can locate and access them easily. CONTINUED > FEBR UARY 2 0 2 3 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM / W E ST P O RT

UPGR ADED HA NGERS The simplest and fastest way to make a BIG difference in your closet organization is to get matching hangers that go beyond the traditional plastic or wire hangers. And for sure ditch any with paper from the dry cleaner! Here’s a few of our favorite elevated hangers:

07 08 LIGHTING

Lighting is everything in a closet. Gone are the days of dim recessed lighting being sufficient. Consider adding a statement lighting fixture like a chandelier or pendant that provides ample bright lighting to your space, no matter how big or small.

M AK E A STATEMENT

Why use an armchair when you have room for a sofa? Slide up a stool and colorful area rug to complete the look. If you have excessive wall space, consider a mini gallery wall or a statement wall with wallpaper to polish things off.

T R E N D SE T T E R | HOM E + DE S I GN

EXPERT VASCULAR CARE Largest Group of Board-Certified Vascular Surgeons in the Country • DVT/Venous Disease/Varicose Veins

• Carotid Artery Disease

• Peripheral Artery Disease

• Most Insurances Accepted

• Aneurysm Disease

Vascular Experts

Where every member of the team knows and deeply cares for you, and the big city benefits of high-tech, innovative concepts and practices of the modern world of medicine.

Personalized vascular care in your community At The Vascular Experts, our desire is to marry the small-town clinic feel of old.

The Vascular Experts:

They don’t just take care of you, they care for you.

• Hemodialysis Access

Expert vascular care close to home We are dedicated to serving our richly diverse communities by providing high quality vasular care to all of our patients.

Spanish Speakers Available at Each of Our Locations CT: Danbury • Darien • Fairfield • Farmington • Manchester • Middletown • New London • Norwich • Old Saybrook • Stamford • Stratford • Watertown Affiliates: NY: Cornwall MA: Brockton RI: Westerly • Wakefield

Call Us at 844-4-VASCULAR (844-482-7285) or visit us at TheVascularExperts.com

architectural design custom homes . remodeling

www.westportbuilder.com

203.227.1055

FEBR UARY 2 0 2 3 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM / W E ST P O RT

F E B R UA RY 2 0 2 3

events A curated selection of the most intriguing upcoming events in our area. FEBR UARY 2ND

Club203 Valentine's Party

FAMILY & MATRIMONIAL LAW Exceptional representation customized to the unique needs of your family through • Litigation • Arbitration • Mediation • Collaborative Divorce

We work closely with our clients to guide them through a broad range of complex family matters, with experience you can rely on.

WE ST P O RT C O UNT RY P L AYH O US E | 7 :30 P M Come celebrate the month of love and "sweethearts" with us at the Westport Country Playhouse! Club203 is open to all adults with disabilities ages 18 and up. Club203.org FEBR UARY 3 R D

I Hate Hamlet

MUS I C T H E AT R E O F C T, 5 0 9 WE ST P O RT AV E NU E , NO R WA L K | 8 :0 0 P M In Paul Rudnick's hilarious dramatic comedy, when television star Andrew Rally moves back to New York and finds himself cast as Hamlet, nothing seems right. With lucrative offers of shallow television shows, self-doubt, and fear of the greatest roles, it takes the supernatural intervention of the ghost of Andrew's apartment's former resident--the legendary John Barrymore--to help Andrew confront the challenges of life on stage. MusicTheatreofCT.org FEBR UARY 5TH

Sunday Funday!

T R O O P E 4 29, 3 WA L L STRE E T, NO R WA L K | 6 :0 0 P M Join Troop429 every Sunday evening through 1 a.m. for bingo, drinks, games, and prizes! Happy hour 6 p.m. - 8 p.m. FEBR UARY 10 TH

(203) 222-8686 conlonmcglynn.com 222 Riverside Avenue Westport, Connecticut 06880

3rd Annual Love Our Community Fundraiser

T H E I NN AT LO NG S H O RE , WE ST P O RT | 6 :30 P M Join us to celebrate the Strength and Love for Our Community. The Alliance for Community aims to CONTINUED >

EVE N TS

FEBR UARY 2 0 2 3 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM / W E ST P O RT

EVENTS CONTINUED

eradicate the “paradox of poverty in the midst of plenty in this nation.” Alliance serves more than 35,000 individuals annually through its broad range of services in a sixtown area. AllianceCT.org FEBR UARY 10 TH

GALentine's Cheese & Charcuterie Experience - A DIY BUILD-A-BOARD WORKSHOP

SEE WELL LIVE WELL state of the art technology and compassionate eye care in your community

T:203-557-8426 | F:844-809-7250 | DrShreyaPatel.com V drshreyapatelod | Bshreya patel od pc

WAKEMAN TOWN FARM | 7:00 PM Putting together a well-paired grazing board can be daunting, but after participating in this hands-on workshop you will have the confidence to create your own spread that is almost too beautiful to eat. This class is the perfect way to spend a nightout with the most special girlfriends in your life! WakemanTownFarm.org FEBR UARY 18TH

Music at MoCA: Talisk (Scottish Folk)

MO CA WE ST P O RT | 7 :00 P M Ground-breaking, chart-topping, globetrotting, enthralling… it’s little wonder that Talisk ranks highly amongst the most in-demand folkbased groups to emerge from Scotland in the last decade and more. Mohsen Amini (BBC Radio 2 Folk Awards’ Musician of the Year), Graeme Armstrong and Benedict Morris (BBC Radio Scotland Young Traditional Musician of the Year) fuse concertina, guitar and fiddle for a ground-breaking signature sound, captivating audiences around the globe. MoCAWestport.org FEBR UARY 27TH

Trail Games

E A RT H P L AC E , WE ST P ORT | 9 :0 0 A M Vacation Days at Earthplace are days filled with opportunities for discovery, engineered for ages 3-12. We spend time climbing trees or the rocks at Big Rock Junction, getting to know the Earthplace trails, or perfecting fort-building skills. When inside, students work on age-appropriate nature-based art projects and take time to visit our residents in animal hall. Earthplace.org

EVE N TS

WEDDING INVITATIONS & GIFT REGISTRY TABLE DECOR • FLATWARE • LINENS • CANDLES • SILVER • CRYSTAL • INVITATIONS • STATIONERY

Art, Locally

Galleries and Museums

ARTICLE BY ROBIN MOYER CHUNG

Rene’ Romero Schuler Dream, 2022 (Photo: Rick Pharaoh) (Photo: Grayson Beaulieu)

(Photo: Chloe Crespi)

Peggie Blizard, Goldenrod and Anemones Version III

01 MOCA WESTPORT 19 Newtown Turnpike MoCAWestport.org // 02 WESTPORT RIVER GALLERY 1 Riverside Drive WestportRiverGallery.com / 03 AMY SIMON FINE ART 123 Post Road East (Sconset Square) AmySimonFineArt.com / 04 SORELLE GALLERY FINE ART 19 Church Lane SorelleGallery.com / 05 THE ARTISTS COLLECTIVE OF WESTPORT Monthly forums at The Westport Playhouse ArtistsCollectiveOf Westport.org / 06 THE CAMP GALLERY 190 Main Street TheCampGallery.com / 07 GEORGE BILLIS GALLERY 180 Post Road East GeorgeBillis. com / 08 LINDA COLLETTA ART 1069 Connecticut Avenue, Studio 406 Bridgeport LindaColletta.com

G IF T GU ID E | ARTS + CU LTURE

THE ALL NEW RANGE ROVER

BLAZE YOUR OWN TRAIL

ORDER YOURS TODAY In n the all-new Range Rover, you don’t follow the crowd—you blaze your own trail. This is the most desirable Range Rover ever created, The Range Rover represents the pinnacle of progressive luxury, Proportions are defined by aesthetic grace, sophistication and refinement, The reductive nature of the design is free from superfluous detail, resul ting in a form which speaks to modernity, yet is full of charm . At Land Rover Fairifeld, e xperience true luxury with Valet Pick Up and Delivery, courtesy vehicle and an exceptional team catering to your needs. Order your all new Range Rover at Land Rover Fairfield today.

LAND ROVER FAIRFIELD One Commerce Drive, Fairfield, CT 06825 203 856 5546 landroverfairfield.com

to have and to hold 136 MAIN STREET WESTPORT 203.227.1300 GLASTONBURY

MOHEGAN SUN

LBGREEN.COM

WEST HARTFORD

WELLESLEY

BOSTON CONCIERGE

800.524.7336