The Magic of Christmas at the Florence Griswold Museum

Submitted by Tammi Flynn at the Florence Griswold Museum

The Florence Griswold Museum in Old Lyme promises triple the “magic” during this year’s celebration.

First, a group of talented designers and artists lavishly decorate Fantasy Trees inspired by the exhibition Call of the Coast. Then, new painted palettes added this year to Miss Florence’s Artist Tree, brings the number to over 100 pieces of artwork donated by artists from all over the country. And finally, the main floor of the house evokes the homespun preparations for a festive 1910 Christmas in a boardinghouse for artists.  It’s no wonder the celebration has become a favorite for locals and travelers alike.

In the Museum’s Krieble Gallery, four elaborate Fantasy Trees evoke the magic of the current exhibition, Call of the Coast.  “A team of talented artists and designers work year round to plan and design the trees,” explains David Rau, Director of Education and Outreach.  “They work their ‘magic’ by taking an intriguing theme to dynamic heights. You never quite know what to expect!”  Miss Florence’s Artist Tree is back this year with additional painted palettes, bringing the count to over 100 artists from across the country who have donated works to 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 (and this year, glass) are used to transform the palettes into traditional holiday scenes, delightful landscapes, and more than a few surprises!

In the historic rooms of the Griswold House visitors can see how families celebrated Christmas in 1910, as historically accurate decorations reveal homespun creativity and the use of surprising materials. The 1910 time period was an important era for the Griswold House, as it was the heyday of its use as boardinghouse for the artists of the Lyme Art Colony. Christmas was also Miss Florence’s birthday! She would have been 60 in 1910.

On Sundays, the Museum is especially family friendly offering “Joy in the Making: A Creative Approach to the Holidays.”  Free with museum admission, families can enjoy hands-on craft workshops and creative projects that relate to the spirit of the season.  Runs through January 10.

the essentials:

Open Tues thru Sat 10am to 5pm & Sun 1pm to 5pm

Admission is $9 for adults, $8 for seniors, $7 for students, and free to children 12 and under.

The Museum is located at 96 Lyme Street, Old Lyme, CT, exit 70 off I-95

www.FlorenceGriswoldMuseum.org