The Drew Friedman Community Arts Center (DFCAC) Announces a $500,000 award to fund art programs and scholarships for underserved artists of all ages and a Gala on May 17th to celebrate their extraordinary accomplishments.

Drew Freidman, the founding member of the  Westport Downtown Merchants Association, led the way for what is now a vibrant downtown shopping area. He bought his first property in 1959 and several more in years to come.

Drew’s passion for the arts was tied to his beloved wife Bobbie, who was an accomplished artist. She worked in a variety of mediums creating magnificent works on canvas, clay and bronze. Drew built Bobbie an amazing state-of-the-art-studio that was to be the home of the DFCAC after her death in December 2011; but since the studio was built over an aquifer, the land use rules made this dream impossible.

The event offers delicious food, drinks, artwork, fun and the presentation of two art scholarships, presented by U.S. Senator Richard Blumenthal. 

This evening includes music and wonderful culinary fare as long-time business partners, Nick Visconti and Drew Freidman jointly owned many local restaurants, and understand that celebrations always call for good food and fun. Bobbi, Drew and Nick wouldn’t have it any other way.