The Magic of Christmas
A Festive Holiday Celebration at the Florence Griswold Museum
November 17, 2005 through January 8, 2006
Old Lyme, CT – October 26, 2005: With lavish Fantasy Trees inspired by the ancient Muses, the return of the popular Miss Florence’s Artist Tree, and Miniature Places, a charming display of miniature houses, visitors to the Florence Griswold Museum this holiday season are in for a triple treat. For the first time, the Florence Griswold Museum will expand its hours and be open seven days a week to accommodate visitors during this special exhibition. From November 17, 2005 through January 8, 2006, the Museum will be open Monday through Saturday 10am to 5pm and Sunday 1pm to 5pm.
In the Museum’s Krieble Gallery and Hartman Education Center, six grandly decorated Fantasy Trees will evoke the spirit of the seven ancient Muses (comedy/tragedy, music, poetry, history, astronomy, and dance). This year’s theme was chosen as a tribute to the seven immortals and their contribution to the arts. A team of designers works nearly a year to plan and design the trees. “It’s wonderful to watch as visitors become captivated by the creations and begin to admired the fine details,” explains Sandy Thurston, co-chair of the exhibition. “Each year the designers challenge themselves to be more dynamic and inventive.”
Miss Florence’s Artist Tree is back this year with 15 additional painted palettes. Last year, 50 artists from across the country donated works to begin 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!
New this year is Miniature Places by Renee T. Wilson, a selection of four miniature architectural masterpieces by Connecticut artist/designer Renee T. Wilson. Her one-inch scale creations make adults and children alike marvel at the intricacy of every object. From the ornamental panels behind the alter in her “Southwest Church” to the hand-painted tiles on the counters of the “Conservatory,” no detail is left untouched. Wilson’s miniature version of the 1730 Jonathan Ashley House in Deerfield, Massachusetts is a particular treat. Decorated for the holidays, the 10–room house, which, opens to 8 feet, mirrors the original down to the braided floor rugs. Wilson also collects miniatures from around the world. Displays of her tiny curiosities will also be on view.
This joyous holiday exhibition is sponsored by Essex Savings Bank & Essex Financial Services, a loyal supporter of the Museum.
Extended Holiday Hours and Family-Friendly Pricing
From November 17, 2005 through January 8, 2006 (50 Magical Days of Christmas) the Museum will be open Monday through Saturday 10am to 5pm and Sunday 1pm to 5pm. The Museum will also be open New Year’s Day from 10am – 5pm. The Museum will be closed Thanksgiving Day (Nov. 24), and Christmas Day (Dec. 25) and Boxing Day (Dec. 26). Admission is $5 for adults, seniors, and students; free to visitors under 12. This includes admission to the Museum’s other exhibition. The Museum is located at 96 Lyme Street, Old Lyme, CT, exit 70 off I-95. For additional information contact the Museum at 860/434-5542 or www.florencegriswoldmuseum.org.
Magical Events
Visitors will enjoy a variety of programs planned for the Holiday season.
CHRISTMASTIME TEA AND TOUR
Wednesday through Friday (November 30 through December 30)
Seatings at 2pm and 3:30pm.
$15 includes tea and admission to all exhibitions.
Reservations suggested.
Please call Matt at 860-434-5542 x 111 or matt@flogris.org.
Take a break from the holiday hustle and bustle and have a delightful afternoon with family and friends. Enjoy delicious cakes from Vanderbrooke Bakers & Caterers and specially blended teas from the Sundial Gardens.
GALLERY TALK
Tuesday, December 20, 1pm
Muses & Miniatures: A Tour of Trees and Miniature Places
David D.J. Rau, Director of Education & Outreach
Included with Museum Admission
AFTERSCHOOL PROGRAM
Tuesdays, December 6, 13, 20, 3:30pm
Handmade for the Holidays: Making Great Gifts for Giving
Fee: $7 (members $5)
Each week, Museum Educator Mollie Clarke leads participants in a hands-on craft project that will produce a handmade gifts. From picture frames to memory books, each project will allow for individual creativity. Geared for children ages 7 to 11.
SUNDAY PROGRAMS
Sundays, November 20, 27, December 4, 11, 18, and January 1, 8, 1-5pm
Joy in the Making: A Creative Approach to the Holidays
Included with Museum Admission
Sunday visitors will enjoy 7 weeks of hands-on holiday craft workshops and creative projects that relate to the spirit of the season.
BETWIXT-THE-HOLIDAYS EVENT
Wednesday, December 28, 11am & 2pm
It’s All Up in the Air: The Airborne Jugglers
FREE with Museum admission
Come to the Museum betwixt Christmas and New Years and enjoy the gravity-defying antics of the Airborne Jugglers.
NEW YEAR’S DAY EVENT
Sunday, January 1, 2-4pm
Fresh Faces: The Caricatures of E.G. Mills
FREE with Museum admission
Come to the Museum on this first day of the 2006 and get a FREE caricature drawn by artist Elaine Mills. Start off the year with a fresh face!
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