ARTS HEROES
Artist image

Recognizing Connecticut's Arts Heroes

Established in 2016, the Connecticut Arts Hero Awards honor and celebrate Connecticut residents who are doing inspiring things for the arts.

The latest recipients were celebrated at Infinity Hall in Hartford. Each one received a Small State, Big Heart, Great Art framed print created by Hartford Prints! for the Connecticut Office of the Arts.

SEE PHOTOS FROM THE 2022 AWARDS CEREMONY

Email any of our staff members to learn more about this award.

2023 Awardees

Gabbie Barnes Picture

Gabbie Barnes, Hartford

Gabbie is a multicultural dreamer living, working, surviving, and sometimes thriving in the Hartbeat: Hartford, CT.
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Marcella Monk Flake Picture

Marcella Monk Flake, New Haven

Marcella has over 37 years of teaching experience, with most of her career dedicated to students in New Haven’s Talented and Gifted Program.
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Suzanne Gaskell Picture

Suzanne Gaskell, Lyme

Suzanne has taught photography, drawing, printmaking and more as a member of the Daniel Hand High School Art Department in Madison for over twenty years.
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Amanda Hanzlik Picture

Amanda Hanzlik, Storrs

Amanda is the Director of Choral Activities at Edwin O. Smith High School in Storrs and will serve as President of the American Choral Directors Association Eastern Region from 2024-2026.
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Stephanie Ingrassia Picture

Stephanie Ingrassia, Washington

Stephanie founded Spring Hill Vineyards with her husband Tim in 2006.
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Deborah Tosun Kilday Picture

Deborah Tosun Kilday, Wolcott

Debbie is a new generation Beat Poet, published author, writer, nature photographer, illustrator and artist.
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Philip Michalowski Picture

Philip Michalowski, New London

Phil is a municipal planner and development administrator who has lived in New London for over 50 years.
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Duvian Montoya Picture

Duvian Montoya, Easton

Duvian is an artist, muralist, studio manager, curator, and community organizer.
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Austin Scelzo Picture

Austin Scelzo, Danbury

Austin is a teacher, musician, and Bluegrass community advocate.
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