Judith McElhone of Torrington
Judy is a force! She has created a hub for visual art in NW CT and has created opportunities for artists in every stage of their career. She is self-less, kind, generous with her time and talent and has been a force in making the careers of young artists come alive for decades.
Luciana McClure of Hamden
Lucy is an inspiring leader, a selfless advocate and a fierce motivator of social change through artistic expression and activism. She is the founding organizer of the Nasty Women Movement and leads Nasty Women Connecticut. She unites communities, amplifies the voices of minorities and raises resources for countless organizations throughout Connecticut.Rene Soto of Norwalk
Rene uses arts to heal, unify and inspire other artists. He has made the Rene Soto Gallery a home for artists to express themselves and share their work. It has become a welcoming home for local and international artists, poets, dancers and more.
Chase Taylor of Waterbury
Chase is a passionate young artist and author of engaging children's books that encourage a love of learning and imaginative play. He has championed the hurdles of his Autism diagnosis and is an inspirational role model to many; proving that having a disability does not mean a person is incapable of achieving big goals and dreams.