About the Show

Artists have long been drawn to Hadlyme and the landscape of the lower Connecticut River Valley. More than a century ago, artists associated with the Lyme Art Colony ventured north beyond Old Lyme to paint the surrounding countryside. Many Hadlyme landscapes painted by American Impressionist Willard Leroy Metcalf and other Lyme School artists remain in the regional collections of the Florence Griswold Museum in Old Lyme, the Lyme Art Association, and other major American art institutions.

That connection between art and place continues today.

The 2026 Artists & Friends Art Show carries that tradition forward. For some fifteen years during the 2000s and 2010s, the Hadlyme Public Hall hosted its popular fall art show. Held over Thanksgiving weekend, those exhibitions brought artists, neighbors, collectors and visitors together at the Hall and became a memorable part of Hadlyme's community life.

In October 2026, art returns to the Hall.

This year's exhibition brings together artists from Hadlyme and beyond, working across painting, watercolor, photography, pottery, illustration, wood-turning and other media. Among them are Hadlyme artists Mary Maguire, known for her whimsical folk-inspired work, and landscape painter Barbara Lussier, whose luminous oils reflect the continuing appeal of the region's landscape to artists.

One of the driving forces behind the show’s development this year is Debra Schmidt Bach, Hadlyme resident and director of exhibitions at the Mystic Seaport Museum. Providing even more continuity with earlier shows, Linda Elgart, who created and organized those past shows, returns as both an exhibiting artist and advisor to Artists & Friends.

Proceeds from the Artists & Friends Art Show will support the Hall’s infrastructure needs, including updating accessibility for disabled and senior members and friends in our 115-year-old building.

The weekend begins on Friday, October 9, with a Benefit Reception for Hall members and invited guests of the artists. Admission to the reception is $20 per person.

The Exhibition is open to the public on Saturday, October 10 from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm and Sunday, October 11, from 11:00 am to 4:00 pm. The artists will appear at both public showings.

For new visitors to the area, Hadlyme Public Hall is located just up the road from Gillette Castle and the Chester-Hadlyme Ferry (operating since 1769). Lyme also offers amazing hiking and biking trails in 19 nearby preserves. A short drive away are found the Goodspeed Opera House and the historic Goodspeed Bridge, with its walking ramp over the CT River. And tasty pastries and strong coffee as well as great sandwiches and pizza are available at the nearby Hadlyme Country Market.