Pequot Library’s Art Show was founded in 1998 by patrons Harry and Enid Munroe, pictured above. Since its inception, the fundraiser, run by a committee of dedicated volunteers, gathers members of the community together and furthers the Library’s mission to bring literature, music, art and the humanities to its patrons. Each year, the non-competitive show features over 200 pieces of art by more than 100 gifted artists, whose participation and talent helps make the Art Show such a success for Pequot Library.

The show’s outstanding reputation has drawn in distinguished artists such as Ian Falconer, Albert Hadley, Jak Kovatch, Bob Ledoux, Carole McClintock and Enid Munroe. In 2006, the Art Show Committee reached out to local art galleries to invite them to showcase their artists in our Show as well. The newly restored Perkin Gallery featured works from a specific artist or gallery, such as The Cooley Gallery, of Old Lyme , Connecticut , in 2006, and Judith Pond Kudlow in 2005.

The Art Show quickly became one of Pequot Library’s most anticipated annual events and attracts thousands of visitors each year. The Friday night Preview Party gives PLA members a first glimpse of the exceptional art exhibited in the Show, while various cultural programs add another dimension to the Show. The 2006 Art Show featured two programs, one for adults and one for children, pictured below. Jeff Cooley, owner of the 2006 featured gallery, gave a gallery talk for adults, while Roxanne Faber Savage led the Southport Sketch-About, an art workshop for children. It is not only the phenomenal art and programming that draws crowds to the Art Show, but also their dedication and commitment to the Library that touches the lives of all who walk through its doors.