Stephanie Ingrassia has lived in Washington for over 30 years. She is the founder of Spring Hill Vineyards and Spring Hill Arts Gathering, in New Preston. 

1. How did the idea of SHAG come to fruition? 

My husband Tim and I have a beautiful farm, connected to a unique property with town access—creating something specifically with the community in mind felt like a fun thing to do! SHAG is about bringing the entire community together, in nature, to experience art. 

2. SHAG will occur the weekend of June 22-25 this year. What can we expect?

All forms of artistic expression are welcome at SHAG. The festival takes place over four days. We present live music, art exhibitions, dance programs, literary programs, activism workshops, and educational content, in addition to fabulous food and of course, wine which is curated by Zachys. 

3. How do you find the artists/performers for the event?

We work with regional organizations doing phenomenal work in their respective fields, artist collectives and foundations pioneering important art historical movements and agencies that serve the entertainment industry. Our eyes and ears are always open for connection, and we love meeting new people doing great things.

4. What is the lineup this year?

I hope your readers will visit our website and explore for themselves, however, I’m very excited that Orville Peck is headlining our Opening Night celebration. I’m particularly thrilled that this event will now be open to the public, whereas in the past we used Opening Night as a private fundraising function. SHAG is a public charity supported through private philanthropy and we hope to grow our list of supporters every year. We have an incredible art exhibition planned, fabulous live music across so many genres, and so much more. I hope everyone will experience it for themselves!

5. Tell us about the special community day.

Sunday, June 25 will be the Town Party, free of any ticket charge. We don’t want a ticket price to deter any families from experiencing SHAG. It will be wonderful family-friendly fun!

6. Each year you aspire to add an additional permanent artwork to the property. What will guests find this year? 

We’ve added an outdoor sculpture by Hank Willis Thomas, and a photograph by JR in the barn, joining other artists including Nicole Eisenman, Randy Polombo, and our neighbors Mark Mennin and Lauren Booth. 

7. What is your favorite part of the weekend?

Our ongoing partnership with Pride in the Hills has produced a banner annual event, SHAG with Pride. This evening has become a crowd favorite, and I must say, one of my most cherished experiences. 

8. What do you hope attendees gain through their experience of the festival?

We would love for the community to learn about different perspectives, see and hear new art forms, and grow in their understanding of the vastness and beauty of our world. Art has the power to expand minds and warm hearts—we all need more of that in our lives. —springhillartsgathering.com