A short history of the Lakes Region Art Association

The Lakes Region Art Association, formerly known as the Laconia Art Group and later the Laconia Art Association, has a rich history spanning over eight decades, deeply rooted in the cultural landscape of Tilton, New Hampshire, and its surrounding regions.

The story begins in 1940 when a group of local artists, enthusiasts, and community members came together to form what was then known as the Laconia Art Group. Their vision was to establish a platform for artists to collaborate, exhibit their work, and foster creativity within the community. Initially, the group operated as a collective, organizing exhibitions, workshops, and events to promote artistic expression and appreciation.

As the organization grew and evolved over the years, it underwent a significant transformation in the 1970s when it was renamed the Laconia Art Association. This change reflected not only the expanding scope of the group's activities but also its commitment to serving a broader audience beyond the confines of Laconia alone. The association continued to thrive, attracting new members, hosting exhibitions, and engaging in outreach efforts to promote the arts across the Lakes Region.

In its various incarnations, the Lakes Region Art Association has played a vital role in nurturing local talent, supporting emerging artists, and fostering a vibrant artistic community. Through its exhibitions, workshops, educational programs, and community initiatives, the association has provided a platform for artists of all backgrounds and skill levels to showcase their work, connect with fellow creators, and contribute to the cultural fabric of the region.

Today, the Lakes Region Art Association remains a cornerstone of the artistic community in the Lakes Region and surrounding areas, continuing to uphold its founding principles of creativity, collaboration, and community engagement. As it looks to the future, the association remains dedicated to enriching the lives of residents and visitors alike through the power of art, ensuring that its legacy of inspiration and innovation endures for generations to come.

Artist Byron Carr demonstrating his style and methods of en plein aire painting during a recent ArtTalk at an art gallery. The paintings depict outdoor scenes with trees, rocks, and streams.
Gallery Artist Christine Fogg demonstrates the methods and techniques behind her Japanese rice paper paintings.
Close-up of an artist arranging a painted tile depicting a river scene with a bridge and trees, on a colorful, paint-splattered easel.
A group of older adults at an art gallery, with some clapping and one woman being handed an award or certificate while smiling.
An elderly man with a beard and gray hair wearing a brown plaid suit jacket, white shirt, and patterned bow tie. He has glasses hanging around his neck and is standing indoors, with a blurred background of artwork on the wall and a woman in the background.
An elderly woman with curly gray hair painting a black ink bamboo scene on paper with a brush.
A group of people gathered in an art gallery, with an elderly woman holding a certificate and three women surrounding her. A man in a pink shirt is smiling in the background.
Celebrating at an art gallery event, a woman in a white tank top with glasses and a floral purse is raising her arms and smiling. Next to her, a woman in a blue cardigan and a woman in an orange shirt are clapping. The background shows framed artwork, and a table with flowers and snacks.
An elderly man with a long white beard wearing a gray cap, a white shirt, and a gold vest, smiling and looking at a red and white decorative Christmas item.
An audience attending an art workshop or presentation at the Lake Region Art Association gallery. A person in a blue shirt and hat is speaking, with artwork and colorful decorations behind. People are seated at tables, listening attentively.
An elderly man and woman painting together at a table in an art gallery or studio, with numerous framed pictures on the wall behind them.

Association Board of Directors

Colorful logo with large letters L, R, A, A in red, green, blue, and yellow inside a black square

Executive Board:

  • President: Sherwood Frazier

  • Vice President: Gail Brunt

  • Treasurer: Sann Lavallee

  • Secretary: Susan French

Associate Directors:

  • Membership: Christine Fogg

  • Events: Lynn Casey

  • Gallery Manager: Linda Murphy

  • Director: Duane Hammond

  • Director: Mike DeVolve

Exterior view of Lakes Region Art Gallery with pink and black Adirondack chairs outside, large glass windows displaying artwork inside, and a sign above the entrance.