home of american impressionism

Florence Griswold Museum
calendar of Events

Join us for our exciting offerings. Reservations required unless otherwise noted. Register on-line, call (860) 434-5542, ext. 111 or email frontdesk@flogris.org

A "*" designates a child-friendly event.

Samuel Thorne Memorial Lecture

Saturday, November 13
5pm
Wanda M. Corn
Robert and Ruth Halperin Professor Emerita in Art History
Stanford University
The Three Lives of Grant Wood's American Gothic
A close look at Grant Wood's painting and its strange odyssey from the studio of an unknown Iowan artist 75 years ago to its international celebrity status today.

Magic of Christmas Celebration

November 20 through January 9

The Museum promises triple the “magic” during the Magic of Christmas celebration. Fantasy Trees, the iconic Palette Tree, and the historic decorations in the Florence Griswold House provide holiday joy for all ages.

In the Gallery, four elaborate Fantasy Trees evoke the magic of the current exhibition, With Needle and Brush: Schoolgirl Embroidery. “A team of talented artists and designers work year round to plan and design the trees,” explains David Rau, Director of Education and Outreach. “They work their ‘magic’ by taking an intriguing theme to dynamic heights. You never quite know what to expect!”

Miss Florence’s Artist Tree is back for its seventh year with additional painted palettes, bringing the count to over 100 artists from across the country who have donated works to this one-of-a-kind tradition. The 12-foot tree has become a holiday icon for the region. The idea of artists painting on palettes relates directly to the Museum’s history as the center for the Lyme Art Colony, and alludes to the doors and wooden wall panels the artists painted throughout Miss Florence's house over a hundred years ago. The palette artists’ styles and subject matter are as varied as the individuals. Oils, acrylics, watercolors, ceramics, and collage are used to transform the palettes into traditional holiday scenes, delightful landscapes, and more than a few surprises! r.

In the historic rooms of the Griswold House visitors can see how families celebrated Christmas in 1910, as historically accurate decorations reveal homespun creativity and the use of surprising materials. The 1910 time period was an important era for the Griswold House, as it was the heyday of its use as boardinghouse for the artists of the Lyme Art Colony. Christmas was also Miss Florence’s birthday! She would have been 60 in 1910.

*MEET SANTA


Horse-Drawn Carriage Rides with Santa
$2 per rider
There are a limited number of tickets.
Climb aboard Foxglove Farm’s charming wagonette for a horse-drawn ride on the Museum’s grounds with Santa and Mrs. Claus. Candy canes offered to all riders! Afterwards, make a holiday craft in the Education Center.

MUSEUM SHOP EVENT


1 1am-3pm
Crafted by Hand for the Holidays
The Holidays are coming! Join us for a special in-store event featuring the works of several local artists. A great time to purchase unique, quality gifts for all those on your holiday shopping list.


*FAMILY PROGRAMS EVERY SUNDAY

Sundays
1-5pm
Free with Museum admission
No reservations required

Every Sunday visitors are encouraged to try their hand painting plein air, in the open air, just like the Lyme Art Colony artists. Painters are given brushes, palette, paint, canvas, and a smock and are sent to paint down by the river or in Miss Florence's garden. All ages and skill levels welcome. There are also hands-on art projects, books, games and puzzles to enjoy. A great way to spend the day!

Sundays
Joy in the Making: A Creative Approach to the Holidays

Sunday visitors enjoy hands-on holiday craft workshops and creative projects that relate to the spirit of the season. For all ages!

CHRISTMASTIME TEAS



Reservations required

Tea participants receive admission to the Museum and a voucher for 10% off in the Museum Shop (no additional members’ discount).

This year’s teas are being presented by Chester’s River Tavern, a popular restaurant known for their use of locally grown products. Featuring farm fresh savories and sweets, and accompanied by “Miss Florence’s Tea,” a special blend from Sundial Gardens.

Call for reservations 860-434-5542 x 111.

Please Note: Christmastime Teas are very popular and sell out quickly, please make your reservations early.