Exhibitions + Collections

The Museum’s collections and exhibitions focus on the visual arts of Newport and southeastern New England, reflecting both the rich heritage of the past and the lively art scene of the present.  The collections feature works by Lydia Field Emmett, Fitz Henry Lane, George Inness, John Frederick Kensett, Gilbert Stuart, William Trost Richards, John La Farge, Howard Gardiner Cushing, George Bellows, and Helena Sturtevant.  Contemporary artists represented in the collection include Dale Chihuly, Howard Ben Tre, James Baker, Rita Rogers, and Joseph Norman.

The Museum organizes special exhibitions drawn from the permanent collection, the holdings of other museums and private collections.  These exhibitions bring to Newport a wide variety of themes and styles, often accompanied by special programs. 

The Museum provides local and regional artists with opportunities to exhibit their works in the Newport Annual, the Artists’ Studio Gallery, and various other venues throughout the year.

The Museum recently saw the installation in the John N.A. Griswold House of more than 100 significant pieces of art from the permanent collection ranging from late 18^th century works through the present. We continue to build our collection through select accession of important art related to the Newport region, and to fulfill our leadership role in bringing contemporary artists’ work to the attention of our community.