Nestled in the heart of New Canaan, the Carriage Barn Arts Center has been a beacon of artistic expression since its founding days in 1895. Initially established by a collective of artists and art-lovers, its mission has been unwavering: to promote the visual and performing arts, enriching the community through exhibitions, education, and cultural experiences. After a hiatus of approximately 80 years, a group of passionate New Canaan residents banded together in 1977 to re-establish this iconic institution. The charming 100-year old building on the grounds of the former Waveny Estate was meticulously restored, reaffirming the Carriage Barn’s commitment to the arts.
This year, the Carriage Barn Arts Center in Waveny Park grew its legacy with the grand unveiling of the 2023 Annual Member Show on September 9. As the curtain rose on the 2023/24 art season, visitors were treated to live music, refreshments, and a diverse showcase of 175 pieces.
The New York Times once described the Carriage Barn’s Betty Barker Gallery as “A gem of a gallery, well-lit, spacious, and a wonderful space for showcasing art.”
Hilary Wittmann, the Executive Director, spoke with enthusiasm prior to the event. “This exhibition is not only our largest and most varied, but it also reflects a history dating back to 1977 when the Carriage Barn first opened its doors in Waveny Park.” She emphasized that the range of artwork, which spans multiple mediums and styles, represents the broad spectrum of Carriage Barn’s member artists — from professionals to budding students.
Of these members, New Canaan artist Kristin Pierce shares her heartfelt connection to the center. “Having moved from the artistic pulse of Manhattan, I had reservations. But the Carriage Barn erased all doubts, providing an unparalleled platform for my work and introducing me to a thriving community of artists,” she said.
While the exhibition will be a visual treat, all pieces are also available for purchase. For those who prefer digital browsing, an online gallery is also available. In the midst of this art celebration, the annual Betty Barker Award was be presented. Established in 2017, this accolade honors the indomitable spirit of Betty Barker (1920-1997), a luminary who was instrumental in shaping the Carriage Barn’s legacy.
As autumn hues begin to color New Canaan, the Carriage Barn Arts Center has prepared a palette of events to complement the exhibition. These include a gallery artist talk on September 17, the inaugural Waveny Park Arts Festival on October 1, and the Annual meeting on October 4. The exhibition, welcoming all art lovers, runs until October 12 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Wednesday-Saturday and 1 to 5 p.m. on Sundays.
Given its rich history and commitment to fostering art, it’s no surprise that the Carriage Barn remains a treasured institution. For those drawn to its mission and the captivating world of art, memberships are open at carriagebarn.org. After all, William Zimmer of The New York Times once described the Carriage Barn’s Betty Barker Gallery as “A gem of a gallery, well-lit, spacious, and a wonderful space for showcasing art.”
