Dee Dee Perrone Colabella is a multifaceted entrepreneur, artist, and community leader based in Ridgefield, Connecticut. With over 30 years of experience in the arts, her career encompasses fine art, education, graphic design, event planning, and arts advocacy. She holds a Master of Fine Arts degree from Western Connecticut State University and is passionate about nurturing emerging and mid-career artists.

In 2021, Colabella expanded her artistic endeavors by founding D Colabella Fine Art Gallery at 446 Main Street in Ridgefield. This gallery showcases solo and group exhibitions featuring established artists from the U.S., Canada, and Russia. The gallery provides a platform for artists to present their work in a curated setting, emphasizing storytelling and emotional resonance.

In the same year, Colabella acquired Ridgefield Magazine, rebranding it as 068 Magazine. This publication serves as a vital resource for promoting businesses and cultural events across the 068 zip codes, including Ridgefield, Redding, and Wilton. Through 068 Magazine, Colabella amplifies the voices of local artists, businesses, and community initiatives.

Beyond her entrepreneurial ventures, Colabella is the founder and president of ArtFul Visual Arts Initiative, a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting working and aspiring artists. ArtFul provides artist grants, student scholarships, and public art projects, such as the Bow WOW Art Dogs initiative in Ridgefield. Under her leadership, ArtFul has awarded over $120,000 in grants and scholarships, fostering a vibrant arts community.

Colabella’s contributions to the arts have been recognized with the Arts in Community Award from the Cultural Alliance of Western Connecticut, highlighting her dedication to enriching the cultural landscape of Ridgefield and its surrounding communities.

Through her various endeavors, Dee Dee Colabella continues to be a driving force in the promotion and development of the arts in her community.