Silvermine Arts Center, in partnership with New Canaan Library, presents The Silvermine Effect: A Century of Creative Community, an exhibition celebrating more than one hundred years of artistic innovation, education, and cultural impact. The exhibition will be on view at New Canaan Library from September 15 through March 23, 2026.
For over a century, Silvermine has been a place where art is made, taught, and lived. Founded in 1922, Silvermine has grown into one of the nation’s leading independent art centers—home to a distinguished Guild of more than 300 professional artists, an award-winning School of Art with over 4,000 annual enrollments, and nationally recognized outreach programs that reach thousands of children and adults across Fairfield County.
“We are honored to partner with Silvermine Arts Center on this exhibition,” said Miki Porta, Exhibitions & Community Engagement Coordinator at New Canaan Library. “Silvermine’s legacy of creativity and education is woven into the fabric of our region, and this exhibition allows us to share that story with a broader audience in a meaningful way.”
The Silvermine Effect traces this remarkable story through the work of Guild artists past and present, archival photographs that capture Silvermine’s rich history, and artwork by instructors, students, and outreach participants that reflects its dynamic present. Visitors will encounter a vibrant narrative of creativity—one that demonstrates how Silvermine has shaped lives for generations and continues to expand access to the arts today.
“This exhibition is about more than history,” said Barbara Linarducci, CEO of Silvermine Arts Center. “It’s about celebrating the ways Silvermine continues to thrive—from inspiring artists in the discovery of new ideas, to giving students of all ages and backgrounds the chance to find their creative voice. We are grateful to New Canaan Library for hosting this exhibition and helping us share the Silvermine Effect with the broader community.”
Silvermine Arts Center, one of the oldest artist communities in the United States, recently celebrated its centennial (1922–2022). Its five-acre campus in New Canaan, Connecticut, consists of a nationally renowned artist guild, an award-winning school of art offering classes for all ages, an arts and fine crafts shop, a permanent print collection, and a gallery offering over 20 contemporary and historic exhibitions annually. Silvermine is a non-profit 501c3 organization that also offers an Outreach Education Program, Art Partners, and hosts lectures, film screenings, and special events. Silvermine Galleries are open 10am – 4pm, Tues. to Sat. and closed Sun. and Mon. For more information, visit www.silvermineart.org.
New Canaan Library is a vibrant cultural hub, serving as a center for knowledge, creativity, and connection. Hosting The Silvermine Effect: A Century of Creative Community reflects the Library’s commitment to offering exceptional cultural and educational experiences.
