Art Through the Ages: A House of Timeless Treasures

“J.N.A. Griswold has built one of the best houses in the city on the corner of Bellevue Avenue and Beach Street. It is two stories high, Gothic, with slate roof, as is also the carriage house and stables. The style is quite peculiar but attractive.” (Providence Daily Journal, Dec. 3, 1864, p.1)

The Griswold House has witnessed Newport’s rich history and now serves as a vital hub for the arts. This 19th century “summer cottage” was designed by architect Richard Morris Hunt for John N.A. Griswold and his family. The Griswold House has hosted a myriad of events, from grand Gilded Age balls to intimate art exhibitions. Today, it functions as the Newport Art Museum, where the legacy of the past informs contemporary artistic practice and education.

Central to this legacy is the Art Association of Newport, established in 1912 by eight influential founders. Their commitment to fostering artistic expression laid the foundation for Newport’s vibrant cultural landscape. Through exhibitions, educational programs, and community events, the association  cultivated a supportive environment for artists and art enthusiasts alike which the Museum continues to foster today.

In this exhibition, you will encounter objects, photographs, and artworks that illuminate the history of the Griswold House, the Art Association, and their enduring impact on Newport’s cultural identity. Join us in celebrating the rich interplay between history and art that continues to define this cherished space.