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If you don't already know the Florence Griswold Museum in Old Lyme, the holidays are the perfect time for your introduction. Because on view there through Jan. 9 is its yearly exhibit, "The Magic of Christmas," exemplified by four elaborate Fantasy Trees, including Miss Florences Artist Tree. This 12 foot tree is decorated with an array of small, painted palettes, by 120 artists from across the country. They symbolize the building's history as the hub of the early 20th century Lyme Art Colony. Among its more than 200 artists were Henry Ward Ranger, Childe Hassam, and Willard Metcalf, vanguard members of the Tonalist and Impressionist movements. Many Colony members' works are on view at the Museum.
Besides the creativity and beauty of its Christmas trees, there are also rooms decorated in 1910-style. Through Dec. 23, stop by for one of the museum's 3 p.m. Christmastime teas. Tuesdays through Saturdays, the teas offer a selection of yummy treats, and Miss Florences Tea, a special blend from Sundial Gardens. And on Dec. 29, the museum holds its "Happy Birthday Miss Florence, A Hands-On Creative Birthday Party," a day-long celebration in the Museums education center. Have a piece of cake and stay for a variety of hands-on arts and crafts projects. Once you meet this gem of a museum, you'll want to join its ranks of dear friends. For more information, visit the Museum's website.
Have you ever been to the Museum? Let us know by posting below or e-mail me at cfortier@mainstreetconnect.us.
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