News & Updates

Powered by Volunteers: ArtWalk 2025

Date Posted:

May 23, 2025

Powered by Volunteers: Celebrating Community Leadership at ArtWalk

As we count down to this year’s ArtWalk on May 31, we’re shining a light on the incredible volunteers who are making it all happen. ArtWalk is more than a celebration of local creativity—it’s a testament to the power of community, fueled by the passion, talent, and dedication of our volunteers.

This year, we are especially proud to recognize three outstanding individuals whose leadership is shaping the event in exciting ways.

Vasanti Anand: Volunteer Performing Arts Liaison

Vasanti Anand

In her new volunteer role as Performing Arts Liaison, Vasanti Anand brings vibrant energy and deep musical expertise to ArtWalk. A trained Indian classical vocalist and longtime West Windsor resident, Vasanti is known for her performances at community events and her dedication to mentoring young musicians.

For ArtWalk, taking place from 4:00 to 7:00 PM on May 31, Vasanti has curated the Local Musician Showcase. This dynamic lineup features a range of talented performers:

  • Surabhi Fusion – An Indo-fusion group founded and led by Vasanti, featuring West Windsor–Plainsboro students Aayush Arni, Abhinav Anand, Achutan Raghushri, Aditi Rasbagh, Anaghan Raghushri, Nidhi Arni, and Mukund Venkatesan
  • Anshanti Lamange – Violinist from Berklee College of Music
  • Anthony McGill – Drummer and producer from Trenton, NJ
  • Saahil Ahmed – Accomplished pianist and music instructor
  • Dennis James Nobile – Princeton-based filmmaker, musician, writer, and bon vivant
  • Nikita Suri – Singer/songwriter and Berklee graduate from WWP

Vasanti’s thoughtful curation reflects her commitment to cultural diversity, live performance, and youth mentorship. In addition to her volunteer work, she recently released her debut single, Spark, now available on all major music platforms. 

Vasanti will also coordinate future musical performances in connection with upcoming events at West Windsor Arts. We look forward to her growing involvement!

Padmaja Ganapathy & Mili Chowfla: ArtWalk Co-Chairs

Padmaja Ganapathy

Serving as ArtWalk co-chairs, Padmaja Ganapathy and Mili Chowfla have been the driving force behind the event’s planning and execution. Together, they’ve brought energy, creativity, and a deep love for the arts to every part of the process—helping ensure this year’s ArtWalk is one of our best yet.

Padmaja has focused her efforts on curating an exciting and diverse Silent Auction, securing donations of artwork, gift baskets, experiences, and services from generous community members and local businesses. Her organization and outreach have resulted in a truly engaging auction experience that helps raise essential funds for our ongoing programs.

Mili Chowfla

Meanwhile, Mili has taken the lead on sponsorship development, building relationships with local businesses and organizations that support our mission. Her strategic approach and warm community connections have helped us exceed our sponsorship goals and grow awareness of ArtWalk throughout the region.

Though each has taken the lead in specific areas, Padmaja and Mili have worked collaboratively across every aspect of the event—from logistics and planning to promotion and problem-solving. Their teamwork has been inspiring, and their commitment to ArtWalk reflects the very best of community-driven arts leadership.

A Community-Wide Effort

ArtWalk would not be possible without the energy and generosity of our team. From coordinating performances and collecting auction items to securing sponsorships and welcoming guests, volunteers are the heart of this event. Thank you to all the committee members: Padmaja Ganapathy and Mili Chowfla (Co-Chairs), Vasanti Anand, Shivani Badgi, Mikel Cirkus, Rick Engel, Angel Gardner, Elane Gutterman, Arianna Horgan, and Aarti Nathan.

We’re deeply grateful to all who are lending their time, talent, and heart to make ArtWalk a vibrant, inclusive celebration of the arts. We can’t wait to see you on May 31—come enjoy the music, bid in the auction, meet the team, and feel the creative spirit of our community in action!

Interested in helping out the day of the event? We’d love to have you! Contact us to sign up and be part of this joyful community celebration.