About Us

Who Are We?

Our Vision

Our goal is to inspire, empower, educate, and transform. We believe the arts are a human right, and we envision a world where the arts, in all forms, are embedded in everyday life.

Our Mission

We strive to animate a culture of creativity across Connecticut by supporting arts making and arts participation for all people.

Our Role

We are the arts-focused office of CT’s Department of Economic and Community Development.

Our Initiatives

GRANT PROGRAMS

Get the funds you need to realize your artistic and community vision.

PROGRAMS AND SERVICES

See how we connect people to the arts and help build vital arts communities across the state.

RESOURCES

Use these state, regional, and national arts information resources to accomplish your goals.

Our Duties and Powers

Read the legislation that defines the Office of the Arts.

Key Information

Strategic Plan 2022-2027

Read the five-year cultural strategy that informs and guides our work.

READI

Equity, inclusion and access involving all populations are critical to the vitality of our neighborhoods, towns, and cities.

Solidarity Statement

A Statement in Support of Racial Equity and Social Justice for Black and Brown People.

Our Partners

Designated Regional Service Organizations

Learn about the DRSO assisting your region.

PARTNERS

Learn about agencies and non-profits that are helping the arts thrive.

Connecticut Arts Council

Learn about the council and its dedication to a vibrant and sustainable arts ecosystem in Connecticut.

Contact Us

Elizabeth Shapiro

Director of Arts, Preservation and Museums
(860) 500-2360
Elizabeth.Shapiro@ct.gov

Melissa E. Díaz

Administrative Assistant
(860) 500-2347
Melissa.Diaz@ct.gov

Tamara Dimitri

Program Specialist, Art in Public Spaces
(860) 500-2377
Tamara.Dimitri@ct.gov

Kolton Harris

Program Associate
(860) 500-2328
Kolton.Harris@ct.gov

Sybelle Moise

Program Associate
PHONE
Sybelle.Moise@ct.gov

Briley Neugebauer

Program Associate
PHONE
Briley.Neugebauer@ct.gov

Rhonda F. Olisky

Program Associate II
(860) 500-2452
Rhonda.Olisky@ct.gov

Tekowa Omara-Otunnu

Program Associate, Arts in Education
(860) 500-2379
Tekowa.Omara-Otunnu@ct.gov

Kimberley Parsons-Whitaker

Community Development Specialist
(860) 205-6350
Kimberley.Parsons-Whitaker@ct.gov

Lourdes “Lu” Rivera

Grants Manager
(860) 500-2332
Lu.Rivera@ct.gov

Intern With Us

The internship program within the Connecticut Office of the Arts was established to provide mentorship and hands-on experience for students and emerging professionals. Learn more about eligibility and how to apply for this in-house opportunity.

Office of the Arts Internship Overview