City Lights Gallery/Bridgeport Art Trail

265 Golden Hill St Downtown Bridgeport CT 06604

203.334.7748 bridgeportarttrail@gmail.com

BridgeportArtTrail.org

Gallery and Frame Shop Hrs W-F 12-5 pm / Sat 12-4 pm

Save the Dates, Bridgeport Art Trail Nov 5-8, 2026
18th annual city-wide arts celebration weekend.

Scan the QR code for the BAT link tree.

20 YEARS IN 2026!!!
PLEASE SUPPORT BRIDGEPORT ART

DONATE HERE.
Or send a check payable to City Lights & Company marking 20 years in 2026! The mailing address, City Lights 130 Elm St, Bridgeport CT 06604. City Lights & Company, also known as City Lights/Bridgeport Art Trail is a 501c3 nonprofit organization that serves the community through art and produces the Bridgeport Art Trail.



See the full Bridgeport Art Trail calendar here.

WORDS OF INSPIRATION

"To create one’s own world takes courage."

-Georgia O’Keeffe, American Modernist Painter and Draftswoman

Bridgeport Art Trail Outreach Mural for Newfield Library

The nonprofit organization, City Lights & Company, aka City Lights/Bridgeport Art Trail is so thrilled to work again with artist E.S. to bring some color and youthful beauty to the East End of Bridgeport, we couldn't wait to share some images of the work in progress. It's fascinating to see the wall transformed. 
This 17' square mural is visible from Central Ave, adjacent to the Ralphola Taylor Community Center and M+T Bank, near Dunbar school. Last Spring students there offered input when artists Carlos Biernnay, Iyaba Ibo Mandingo and Suzanne Kachmar (C/L BAT E.D.) conducted a painting workshop with them. Their input and from other stakeholders informed the content and imagery of this mural. Something aspirational about children and the library was the overall message.
More images to follow!

Ensure that these outreach programs can continue. Please make a contribution here. 
Or send a check to City Lights & Company, mailed to City Lights 130 Elm St Bridgeport CT 06604

Art to See in Bridgeport

See full Bridgeport art calendar here.


HAPPENING NOW


 

Artist Opportunities

Call for Art: Art-Senal of Democracy

Deadline October 23, 2026

More information / Submit

Bridgeport Arts & Cultural Council is seeking powerful, thought-provoking artwork for “ART-SENAL OF DEMOCRACY” - Reflections of the Times, a pop up exhibition in Downtown Bridgeport during the 2026 Bridgeport Art Trail inspired by Nina Simone’s belief that an artist’s duty is to reflect the times. All visual art mediums welcome (No generative Ai-based work will be considered)


YOUR VOICE. YOUR PERSPECTIVE. OUR TIMES.


Artists are invited to submit work in any medium including paintings, photography, three dimensional & sculpture that speaks to themes of Democracy, Freedom, Identity, Justice, Power, Resistance, Belonging, Community, Hope, Change

Call for Art: CT State Houstaonic

Deadline December 15, 2026

More information / Submit

The Connecticut Office of the Arts (COA) and the Housatonic Museum of Art are currently seeking to purchase artwork by Connecticut and tri-state regional artists for Beacon Hall at CT State Community College Housatonic in Bridgeport, CT. The committee is considering two-dimensional wall mounted works of art that are not light-sensitive (i.e., works on paper and certain textiles). Interior sculptural works may be considered. 


Budget: up to $275,000 is available to purchase a wide range of artwork by several artists.


Call for Art: 
State Office Building in Hartford

Deadline January 15, 2027

More information / Submit

The Connecticut Office of the Arts (COA) is currently seeking artwork by Connecticut artists for the interior of the State Office Building at 165 Capitol Avenue in Hartford, Connecticut. A budget of up to $525,000 is available to purchase a wide range of art by several artists. The project aims to acquire art for the interior that will be displayed on a rotating basis throughout the building.


The interior acquisitions may serve as wayfinding and will be installed in hallways, lobbies, and conference rooms. The goal is to bring vibrancy and a range of styles and mediums into the building with artwork that is rooted in Connecticut identity. 

Hispanic

Heritage Month

MEET SAMUEL PINTOS

See Samuel in his studio at the NEST Arts factory on the Bridgeport Art Trail, see video by Henley Germain.

Samuel Pintos featured artist for Hispanic Heritage month, in his studio, NEST Arts Factory

City Lights Gallery

265 Golden Hill St

On display: MESA / BIERNNAY
Duo Exhibit for Hispanic Heritage Month
Wed-Fri 12pm-5pm, Sat 12pm-4pm



MESA — BIERNNAY 9/19-10/23

Opening Reception Saturday 9/26, 6:30-9 pm



City Lights Gallery presents the art by Eliana Mesa and Carlos Biernnay. The two Latino artists/friends share a studio space at the NEST Arts Factory in Bridgeport CT. The exhibit offers an inside perspective on how artists support and challenge each other, how community affects the artists’ practice, choice of materials and final product.

Housatonic Museum of Art
900 Lafayette Blvd


More info

Making his Mark in Connecticut: 
The Creative Process of F. Luis Mora

Monday-Friday | 8:30 AM - 7:00 PM

More Info

View an extensive collection of art, from studies to final paintings and poster designs by Uruguayan born F. Luis Mora when he worked in his adopted state of Connecticut. Burgundy walls and exquisite art in gilded frames transport you to a traditional European museum space, back to the turn of the 20th century, reminiscent of the American Impressionists, a time of excellence in regional art. View the masterful drawings, paintings and prints by this respected and influential artist/muralist/illustrator who on par with John Singer Sargent, following in the tradition of Velazquez and William Merrit Chase.


As a teacher at the Art Students League Georgia O’Keefe was among his students. HMA is only open during the school week, M-F and is home to one of the premier college art collections in the United States; art is installed throughout the sprawling campus, in offices, hallways and classrooms.

Downtown Color Walks:
Bridgeport Art Trail

Saturday November 7th | 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Meet at DSSD, 938 Broad St


More info

Downtown Farmer's Market

Thursdays 10:30 AM - 2:00 PM | Jul 9-Oct 29th

McLevy Green

Ursa Coffee Roasters and Gallery
245 Fairfield Ave


More info

On View Through Oct 24th

Mon-Fri 7am-4pm, Sat 8am-4pm

Bridgeport Pride Center

Sinister Soiree: Halloween Benefit Show

Saturday, October 17 | 7:00 PM-10:00 PM

Artisan Stack Cafe

Learn more here!

Ghoulish glamour for a good cause!


OurAnnual Sinister Soiree returns from beyond the veil on October 17 for a scandalous cabaret benefiting the Bridgeport Pride Center!


Brought to you by One Chance Fancy and Professor M, this wickedly fun evening features daring drag, bewitching burlesque, and voracious vocals.


All tips and ticket revenue will be donated to the Bridgeport Pride Center. Gather your friends for a night of spooky entertainment that supports our community!

Bridgeport Film Fest

Artist Networking Event:

The Creative Link-Up

Saturday, November 7 | 5:00 - 8:00 PM

Artisan Stack Cafe, Downtown Bridgeport

Learn more here!

Calling all filmmakers, actors, writers, artists, and art lovers!


Join us for an evening of creative connection, conversation, and collaboration! Meet fellow creatives, exchange ideas, and make new connections while enjoying complimentary bites, a cash bar, games, music, good vibes, and more.


Come ready to connect, get inspired, and grow your creative community!


REGISTER HERE TODAY!

Skateport 2026 Schedule

Post Office Square, Downtown Bridgeport

Learn more here!



Foolproof Brewing

800 Union Ave



Oddities Halloween Flea Market

Saturday, October 31st | 11:00 AM - 6:00 PM

Tickets

Art is Good Vintage Market

Sunday Nov 8th & 29th | 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM

Free entry

Recollective Vintage Vending Marketplace

588 State Street

Open Sundays 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM


Kindred Thoughts Bookstore

Puzzle Author Talk & Live Violin Performance

Saturday, October 17th | 5:00 PM - 7:00 PM

More information

Join Dr. Melanie R. Hill for a talk and live violin performance featuring her new book, Colored Women Sittin' on High: Womanist Sermonic Practice in Literature and Music (UNC Press).


In conversation with Reverend Dionne P. Boissiere, this talk shows, through Dr. Hill's book, how literature and music, sound and sermon function wholly through the spiritual geniuses of Black women preachers, writers, artists, and freedom movement activists. From Zora Neale Hurston and Toni Morrison to Ruby Sales and Aretha Franklin, Colored Women Sittin' on High highlights Black women as the virtuosic alchemists of our time.

Bridgeport Public Library

Free Events Across the City!

More Info Here


YOGA FOR EVERYBODY

Saturday, October 17 | 10:00 - 11:00am

Saturday, October 24 | 10:00 - 11:00am



Learn short meditation techniques and cultivate breath awareness with basic yoga poses. Yoga helps increase flexibility, strength and balance. Reconnect your mind, body and breath for relaxation and inner peace.


Location: North Branch Community Room | MORE INFO HERE

PODCAST STUDIO ORIENTATION

Saturday, October 17 | 3:00 - 4:00pm

Thursday, October 29 | 6:30 - 7:30pm


Excited for podcasting at the library? Join us for an introductory orientation to podcasting where you will learn the first steps to using the equipment to begin your foray into the world of podcasting! This orientation is a pre-requisite requirement to be able to reserve our podcasting studios.


Location: The Beardsley Branch Library located on 2536 East Main Street, Bridgeport, CT. Registration is required with a cap at 5 patrons per orientation. 


MORE INFO HERE

ADULT PUMPKIN CARVING

Sat., Oct. 17 | 3:00 - 5:00pm


Get into the fall spirit with an evening of creativity and fun!


Join us for Adult Pumpkin Carving, where you’ll transform a pumpkin into your own festive creation. Whether you keep it classic, spooky, or try something completely unique, come carve, relax, and enjoy some seasonal fun.


Location: Newfield Community Room | MORE INFO HERE


MURDER MYSTERY ESCAPE ROOM

Thur., Oct. 22 | 5:00 - 7:30pm


Beloved benefactor James Walker Beardsley has been murdered in his home! In their haste to escape, the culprit has left a series of mysterious clues behind.


The Bridgeport Police are requesting help from the best detectives in the Northeast to solve this heinous crime… including you!


Location: Bpt History Center | MORE INFO HERE

BPT Creates

POETZ REALM

Wednesday, Oct 28th & Nov 4th | 8:00 PM - 11:30 PM

1001 Main Street, Bridgeport

More Info


Klein Memorial Auditorium

910 Fairfield Ave


Celebrating the Legacy of Jim Henson:

An Afternoon with Craig Shemin and Karen Falk + Screening of The Muppet Movie

Saturday, November 7th | 2:00 PM

Tickets

CT Dance Conservatory Presents:

A Day of Dance Benefit Showcase

Sunday, November 8th | 2pm & 6pm

Tickets

 

Park City Music Hall

2926 Fairfield Ave

Friday, October 16th | 8:00 PM

Tickets - 21+ Event

Sunday, October 18th | 8:00 PM

Tickets - 21+ Event

Tuesday, October 20th | 7:00 PM

RSVP - 21+ Event

THE BIJOU THEATRE

275 Fairfield Ave

Candlelight Concerts

Saturday, October 17th | 6:00 PM & 8:30 PM

Tickets

Experience magical tunes by candlelight in an intimate, cozy setting—perfect for a chill night out!


Get ready for the Candlelight Concert!


Nothing beats the cozy vibe of live music by candlelight. Join us in person for an unforgettable evening filled with warm melodies and soft glows. Perfect for a chill night out with friends or a special date night. Don’t miss out on this magical experience – bring your good vibes and let the music take you away!

POP DIVAS Concert

Sunday, October 18th | 6:00 PM & 8:30 PM

Tickets

POP DIVAS: and the women who shaped them is a high-energy, all-live concert experience led by Jordan Quinn, celebrating the most iconic women in music — and the legends who inspired them.


From the soul of Aretha Franklin and Etta James, to the songwriting of Carole King and the rock influence of Stevie Nicks, the show traces the roots of today’s pop sound.


Featuring powerhouse performances inspired by Whitney Houston, Christina Aguilera, Lady Gaga, Britney Spears, P!nk, and Adele, POP DIVAS blends eras, genres, and vocal styles into one unforgettable night.


With live vocals, a full band, dynamic choreography, and striking costume transformations, this is more than a tribute show — it’s a fully immersive concert experience.

THE STRESS FACTORY

Various Comedy Show Events

167 State Street, Bridgeport


Russell Peters

Thur Oct 15-17

Various Times

Tickets $52


Chris Grant

Sun Oct 18

7:00 PM

Tickets $36


Tony Dabas

Thur Oct 22

7:30 PM

Tickets $31


CT Beardsley Zoo

1875 Noble Avenue


Toast to the Wild Zoo Fundraiser

Foolproof Brewing, 785 Union Ave

Saturday, October 17th | 6:00 PM - 10:00 PM

Tickets

Artist Opportunities

Call for Art: CT State Houstaonic

Deadline December 15, 2026

More information / Submit

The Connecticut Office of the Arts (COA) and the Housatonic Museum of Art are currently seeking to purchase artwork by Connecticut and tri-state regional artists for Beacon Hall at CT State Community College Housatonic in Bridgeport, CT. The committee is considering two-dimensional wall mounted works of art that are not light-sensitive (i.e., works on paper and certain textiles). Interior sculptural works may be considered. 


Budget: up to $275,000 is available to purchase a wide range of artwork by several artists.


Workshops

Programs and Workshops

Sponsored by the

Bridgeport Art Trail

Learn more/Register here.

BAT Storytelling Exchange

November 5th | 7:00 PM on Zoom

The BAT monthly storytelling exchange is a night of immersing into the art of oral storytelling. It’s a place to try out a story idea, present a draft story or rehearse a story - true or fictional. If the teller wishes, the group provides constructive feedback.


Any experience level of storyteller is welcome as are those who just want to enjoy a night of stories. The Zoom registration page here. Meets monthly on the first Thursday of the month at 7PM - 9 PM.


Hosted by Nina Lesiga. Sponsored by City Lights/Bridgeport Art Trail

Figure Drawing

November 3rd & 10th

6:30 - 9:30 PM


$15 model fee

RSVP to clgallerybpt@gmail.com | Pay online here.

On the 1st and 2nd Tuesday of the month 6:30-9:30 PM. $15 model fee.

Easels, tables and chairs available, please bring drawing and painting materials. The Nest Arts Factory invites artists and students to join their working artists community to draw and paint from life in the rustic community room. This workshop is sponsored by City Lights/Bridgeport Art Trail.


Please RSVP to clgallerybpt@gmail.com

or to pay online click here.


This is an open sketch studio workshop sponsored by City Lights/Bridgeport Art Trail

The Writer's Group

with Shanna Melton

November 7th & 14th | 2:00pm - 4:00pm

Meets Virtually, Free to Attend


RSVP to clgallerybpt@gmail.com

The mission is to use prompts and other creative tools to motivate the creative process. It also creates a space for us to share and get a reaction from other writers who can advise one another on how to enhance the poems and or stories we create. This is not an open mic or performance space. It is a place to create. Meets first two Saturdays of the month.


Zoom Link: https://us04web.zoom.us/j/74384388746... 


Meeting ID: 743 8438 8746 Password: SHANNA 

Arts Alliance of Stratford

In Person Figure Drawing

Tuesday, October 20th & 27th | 6:15pm- 8:45pm

Location:

Sterling House Community Center

2283 Main St.

Stratford, CT 06615


Cost:

Members: $15.00 (online registrations only)

Non-members: $20.00 (online registrations only)

Walk-in fee: $25.00 (cash only)

(online registration strongly encouraged)


Tables and chairs will be provided. We recommend bringing a tabletop or a lightweight, collapsible field easel if you want to draw from an easel.


18 years of age or older. No instruction will be provided.

Please review our terms & conditions and refund policy: https://artsallianceofstratford.org/in-person-figure-drawing-t-and-cs




The format (long or short poses) will be set by the moderator. Artists may suggest poses to the model to ensure variety. Runs the third and fourth Tuesdays of each month.



Register Here!

THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS. PLEASE SUPPORT BRIDGEPORT ART HERE.

The Bridgeport Art Trail is produced by the City Lights & Company, a 501c3, nonprofit organization that serve the community through art. Please donate here. Thank you.