Westport has a rich heritage as an artists' community, which continues today with a vibrant, local arts scene. Our goal is to honor this legacy by making the arts accessible to everyone.
Our three galleries of rotating exhibits provide visitors with the opportunity to experience original work by local artists. The Library's permanent art collection and ongoing arts programming further demonstrate our deep commitment to the local and regional arts community.
Featured exhibits change on a regular basis. If you would like to suggest an idea for an exhibit, please review the Exhibit Inquiry Guidelines.
On display from September 7 through December 10
Sheffer Gallery: September 7 through December 10
Reception: Tuesday, September 10, 6-8 pm
Curated by Walker with help from the Library’s Exhibit Curator Carole Erger-Fass, Cartoon County: The Golden Age of Cartooning in Connecticut derives from Westport Schools Permanent Art Collection and aims to explore an important piece of local history. It will feature 40+ original cartoons by some of the area’s greats, including Dik Browne, Mel Casson, Stan Drake, John Cullen Murphy, Leonard Starr, Jack Tippit, Mort Walker, and more.
South Gallery: September 7 through December 10
Reception: Tuesday, September 10, 6-8 pm
The State of Cartooning will display works by active members of the Connecticut Chapter of the National Cartoonists Society, including Greg, Brian, and Neal Walker, who carry the legacy of their father, Mort Walker, the creator of Beetle Bailey. Other featured artists include Ray Billingsley, Bob Englehart, Bill Janocha, Sean Kelly, Maria Scrivan, and more.
Jesup Gallery: September 7 through December 10
Drawn once more from the collection of American blues keyboardist and record producer Mark Naftalin and his wife, Ellen Naftalin, this exhibit highlights the art of country music, with album covers dating from the 1920s through the 1970s.
