By Jean Falbo-Sosnovich, Register Correspondent

DERBY — The Valley Center of the Arts will debut today, showcasing a full canvas of arts and culture in the lower Naugatuck Valley.

After months of hard work by volunteers, the facility at 119 Caroline St., which was formerly Spooner House homeless shelter, will be open 1-5 p.m.

According to Rich DiCarlo, president of the Valley Arts Council, the goal was to turn the vacant facility into a “centerpiece for arts and culture in the region.”

DiCarlo said today’s open house will include tours, demonstrations by artists at work in the new studio space, samples of artwork from classes and a chance for artists to inquire about renting space.

DiCarlo said the afternoon will also include “Make It & Take It” art projects, music and refreshments.

VAC acquired the building from the city last year, leasing it for $1 per year.

“Words cannot really express how excited we are about this opening,” said Mary Ruth S. Roussel, the center’s outreach coordinator. “Rich (DiCarlo) and other members of the VAC have been working toward this moment for a very long time.”

Roussel said a “massive amount” of cleaning, including removal of carpeting, window treatments, trash and old appliances, was done in order to make way for major interior renovations.

She said donations of materials from local retailers enabled VAC to have the entire building painted and have flooring installed throughout.

Several artists have asked about renting space on the second floor, and Roussel expects them to move in “on a permanent basis very soon.” Continued...

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Those interested in renting space or volunteering at the center may contact DiCarlo at 906-4343 or studiochid@sbcglobal.net.

Built in 1925, the building once housed the Hotchkiss Hose fire company, and was previously occupied since 1988 by the Spooner House, which has moved to Shelton.

DiCarlo said the center will not only serve as VAC’s headquarters, but will be a place to learn and create. VAC is planning to offer private and public art and music lessons, as well as work with the local schools and youth groups in developing a vast array of after-school art programs.

Aldermanic President Kenneth Hughes praised VAC’s efforts. “Rich DiCarlo and his entire crew of volunteers did an outstanding job renovating a building which was on the verge of blight,” Hughes said.

“Between the new arts center and ongoing renovations to the Sterling Opera House, Derby is poised to become the cultural epicenter of the entire region.”

Sheila O’Malley, city director of economic and community development, agreed, saying, “I think it’s a wonderful addition to the neighborhood and will generate positive activity.”

Jean Falbo-Sosnovich can be reached at jean.sos@snet.net.

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