"Discovering John A. Bright" at Casa d'arte by the sea
About Casa d'Arte's Village in the U.S.
A creative community by the Sea
- Casa d’Arte is a private residence that has opened 600 square feet of its space to the public, inviting residents to view works by local artists selected for their commitment to art and service to the community.
- The Seaside Village is a historic, close-knit residential housing cooperative. Built between October 1918 and March 1919 by the U.S. Housing Corporation and the Bridgeport Housing Company, it was designed to house factory and munitions workers during World War I.
- The featured artist’s works are available for viewing by appointment only. We invite business professionals to explore and acquire works by our esteemed artist, supporting artistic expression and community engagement.
John A. Bright, Master Sculptor
Mr. John A. Bright is an artist whose pieces, at first glance, seem imposing, robust, and masculine. After all, he creates his work predominantly from metal, and his sculptures are indeed big and heavy. Mr. Bright can be labeled an “industrial artist,” but he is so much more. He is a storytelling sculptor who uses metal to share experiences that have shaped his perceptions, practices, values, and beliefs. Mr. Bright is patient with himself, allowing each story to unfold as he forms and transforms pieces of metal.
I describe his sculptures as "new age craft honoring ancient traditions."
For me, what makes an artist special, is his/her character and attitude. John's humility is infectious. He is calm, gentle, and patient. John operates with integrity and tranquility. As the owner of Brightworks Gallery in Bridgeport, John puts the work of other artists first, creating a space where their voices and talents can be seen and appreciated.
I enjoy spending time with John. As I wander about in his house, I often beg him to turn his sunroom into a gallery featuring his own work while keeping the foyer and living room available for other artists. I have come to realize that John's chaotic workshop is his playground—a state of mind that reminds us what art is truly about--playing and making a mess from time to time.
In the summer of 2026, he took time out of his busy schedule to venture with myhappyescape.com and experience something new in Italy. He has exhibited some of his “non-metal” work at Casa d'Arte - ITALY (in Civitaluparella's Historic Medieval Center).
Because John creates opportunities for other artists, I was inspired to create Casa d'Arte - US (in Bridgeport's Historic Seaside Village) to host a long-term exhibition for his works. We are open on Saturday 1pm-3pm by appointment only and during his talks.
Cheers!
Petulia Blake, Ph.D.
My Happy Escape, LLC
