We know we may have mentioned this once or twice, but we really feel so lucky to live in a city as vibrant as Lowell. There is so much history and culture here, never a lack of something to do and always new things to see. One very important part of our city’s history and culture is the Whistler House Museum of Art. Previously home to some of the biggest innovators of the city, the Whistler House now focuses on educating the public about 19th Century American art, raising awareness about the house itself and the work of previous residents, and preserving the birthplace of James McNeill Whistler, one of America’s premier artists. 
The Museum is open for visitors Wednesday through Saturday from 11 AM until 4 PM. Admission for adults is $7 for a self-led tour, or $10 for a Docent-led tour. Children under 12 and Museum members are free. They have a permanent collection of art on display throughout the house which focuses on work from the late nineteenth and early twentieth centuries, with a specific emphasis on artists from New England. They also have rotating exhibits, one that is currently on display highlights the work of Arshile Gorky, and Armenian immigrant who is referred to as the Father of American Abstract Expressionism. The third floor of the house is known as the Artist’s Studio, and visitors are encouraged to stop by and visit their current Artist in Residence, Dave Drinon.
We are very excited about another exhibit they have featuring one of our very own members and friends, Janet Lambert-Moore. Janet is a well-known local artist and her work will be on display in the Parker Gallery until November 7th. Her showcase, called “A Creative Life” shows various local scenes that will be familiar to Lowell residents. She has been an active part of the Lowell arts scene since the 1950’s, and her oils, watercolors, pen and ink drawings, and murals can be found in collections and public buildings throughout Lowell, odds are you’ve definitely seen one of her pieces before! Janet will also be at the gallery every day during her showcase, so not only can you view her beautiful and historic work, you can meet her and ask her any questions you may have! It’s always exciting to get to meet the person behind the art if you ask us. 
The museum also offers valuable educational programs for youth and adults. Their Youth Summer Art Program is open to children ages 10-14, and each week they focus on a different art form by conducting museum tours, hands-on creation, and art history discussions that connect real-life works of art to the day’s activity. For adults, they have a class every Tuesday from 6 – 9 PM which currently focuses on figure drawing. Sessions are $25 with instruction, $15 to drop in, or you can purchase a 4-week session in advance for $40.
The Whistler House is also available to rent for functions and private events. You can reserve various areas of the house and their courtyard. This unique space would certainly make for an event to remember!
It truly is a lesson in history, art, and Lowell itself, we hope you’ll take advantage of this gem in our own back yard, especially while our friend, Janet, is displaying her work!
