Historic Vermont Art Collection Finds Permanent Home at Southern Vermont Arts Center
MANCHESTER, VT — A significant new addition to the Southern Vermont Arts Center is set to open next summer, providing a permanent home for renowned collector Lyman Orton’s expansive collection of 20th-century Vermont art. Orton, the owner of the Vermont Country Store, has curated over 250 pieces, which he believes should be showcased at the arts center to ensure their preservation for future generations.
The new 12,000-square-foot wing of the arts center, projected to cost nearly $10 million, will house Orton’s cherished paintings, some depicting Vermont’s iconic landscapes and lifestyles. The building is a product of a successful $14.5 million capital campaign, currently 90% funded. “We’re not just constructing galleries; we’re creating space for freedom of expression and bold ideas,” noted Bob Van Degna, president of the arts center’s board of trustees.
Orton’s collection, which includes works by notable artists like Luigi Lucioni and Ogden Pleissner, aims to make art accessible to all. “We want to create an environment that encourages community engagement,” said Amelia Wiggins, executive director of the arts center. The new wing will feature a general exhibition gallery and a patio for outdoor events.
The exhibition has already made waves during its traveling tour, attracting audiences from across the region. Visitors resonated with the art’s connection to Vermont’s heritage and everyday life. Orton emphasizes the importance of narrative, encouraging visitors to explore the stories behind each piece.
This addition to the Southern Vermont Arts Center not only provides a permanent home for Orton’s impressive collection but also honors the state’s artistic legacy and makes it accessible to both locals and tourists.
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