The Florence Griswold Museum

Miss Florence Griswold's home and boarding house became a favorite of early 20th century artists

   How fun to visit the Florence Griswold Museum again, this time through the eyes of a friend who had never been there before. I think my friend Donna was ready to move in to the old boarding house pictured above. With its large rooms, hallways large enough to fit sofas, and history of American Impressionist boarders, the house echos with intellectually rich and creative conversation and ideas! Located along the picture perfect Lieutenant River in Old Lyme, Connecticut, The Florence Griswold Museum is the birthplace of American Impressionism. This a museum that  inspires artistic spirit! The  Georgian architecture of Miss Florence's house was the home of the Lyme Art Colony.  Many of Miss Florence’s boarders set up their easels to paint the marshy coastline along the river in back. 

Krieble Gallery, Florence Griswold Museum, Old Lyme CT

   At one time, the museum consisted of little more than the main house with it's collection of art work and paneled doors painted by the residents. As a result of a generous gift from the Hartford Steam Boiler Inspection and Insurance Company, more space was needed. Nearly two decades ago, I was fortunate to be there for the ground breaking ceremony as a representative of the Lyme Art Association. In 2002, The Florence Griswold Museum opened the Robert and Nancy Krieble Gallery, designed by Centerbrook Architects. This light-filled  modern space is perfect for displaying the Hartford Steamboiler Collection, as well as the many changing exhibits.

   On our visit this summer, we enjoyed looking for cows in the paintings of the exhibit Art and the New England Farm, on display from May 11- September 16, 2018.

Edward Volkert, Ox with Haywagon. Oil on wood, 16 x 20 inches. Florence Griswold Museum, Gift of Mr. and Mrs. Gerald Freedman, 1984.26

  There is always something new and interesting going on at the FloGris. Over the years, I've participated in yoga classes on the lawn under shade trees while overlooking the river; listened to live music; wandered through the perennial garden; attended farmer's markets and festivals; enjoyed lectures; and saw Christmas trees decorated with a growing collection of painter's palettes - painted by Connecticut artists. Oh! Did I mention the paintings! The exhibits are wonderful, you really must come see for yourself.

Coming soon is the 2018 Wee Faerie Village! A must see for all ages. The village will be displayed all over the grounds of the Florence Griswold Museum beginning September 29th - October 28th. To see last year's theme click here.

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 The Pringle Plan is a series of educational guides. 

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