Admission to the Lyman Allyn is free on the first Saturday of each month.
Come ready for fun artful learning (be sure to dress for mess).
Free First Saturday
Time: 11 am – 1 pm in the art studio
Cost: Free admission all day
- November 2: Collaged Quilts
- Take inspiration from the art of Gee’s Bend Quilters, featured in the Personal to Political exhibition. Design your own colorful quilt using collage materials.
- December 7: Winter Wonder Day
- Kick-off your December by enjoying free photographs with Santa, winter artmaking, and more!
- January 4: Make a Miniature
- Have you ever painted with a magnifying glass? See the detailed miniature paintings by team Wes and Rachelle Siegrist before painting your own mini work of art.
- February 1: Thuan Vu- Repairing with Gold
- Learn about the practice of kintsugi, the Japanese art of repairing broken pottery with gold, in the exhibition by artist Thuan Vu. “Repair” your own tile with kintsugi methods to create a coaster.
- March 1: Inuit Art
- Learn about different styles of Inuit art from the collection of James Houston. Make your own art print inspired by animal forms seen in the exhibitions.
- April 5: Busy Bees
- Help the Lyman Allyn prepare for the outdoor art installation The Bee Project. Bring recyclable and non-recyclable materials to make bees that can become part of the installation.
- May 3: May Flowers
- Jump into spring by creating your own flower bouquet inspired by the different flora in Louis Comfort Tiffany in New London.
- June 7: Word Art
- Express yourself by creating an artwork that features words. Combine wit, humor, quotes, or other big ideas to make a standout piece.
Free First Saturdays are made possible by Chelsea Groton Bank.
Science Saturday
Due to changes in grant funding, Science Saturday will not continue after June 2024. Thank you to Pfizer and our wonderful participants for great STEAM fun over the years.
At Home Activities
We’ve gathered some of our favorite Free First Saturday and Science Saturday activities that families can do at home! Click on a specific project to be brought to the materials/instructions page.Share your projects on social media and use #LymanAllynFromHome.