A springboard for the imagination in a first-ever exhibition of original art by dozens of beloved New England children’s book illustrators. May 6 to September 25, 2022, daily, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Exhibitions and Events
Imagine That! The Power of Picture Books
Portsmouth Historical Society has assembled a collection of extraordinary illustrations for children’s picture books by a “who’s who” of New England illustrators, from Maxfield Parrish and N.C. Wyeth, to Robert McCloskey (Make Way for Ducklings), Hans and Margret Rey (Curious George), and Dr. Seuss (aka Theodor Geisel); to contemporary artists Chris Van Dusen, Mo Willems, Tomie dePaola, and Ashley Bryan. In all, more than one hundred illustrations, including new reflections on diversity and inclusion, offer a springboard for children and adults to explore the imaginative world of picture books and reading together. Accompanying the exhibition are creative reading, craft and play areas, and an impressive “Journey Box” initiative that takes picture books, reading, and book-making to local schools, libraries, and underserved families.
News
Summertime Activities
We’ve got so many activities coming up this summer! Read about the ones coming up soon below, or see them all here.
Illustrator Bob Staake, next Thursday
Join us for the first event of the 2022 William & Arlene Brewster Lecture Series
June 16, 2022, at 6:30pm
Bob Staake, “A Palette of Pixels”
In-person and via Zoom
FREE for members, $15 for non-members
Visit June 3 For Art Around Town!
Visit our latest exhibition for free during Art Around Town!Come meet our featured artist Oleg KompasovOleg Kompasov was born in Electrostal, Russia. He began painting at age 9 and graduated from the Electrostal Art School at age 16. After serving in the Army, Oleg...
Membership
Become a Member today! Support the Portsmouth Historical Society’s exhibitions, programs, policy of free/discounted admission, third grade history program, walking tours, publications and so much more by joining as a member! Membership benefits include exclusive invitations to member only events, discounts in the museum shop, free/discounted admission to programs, lectures, and tours, and advance notice of the Society’s activities.
Become a member today so that you too can make History, Arts, and Culture come alive for everyone!
Make a Donation
Support the Portsmouth Historical Society with a one-time or sustaining donation.
A significant portion of our operating budget comes from generous supporters like YOU!
Volunteer
We could not be what we are or accomplish what we do without our volunteers. Join us in pursuing our mission to preserve and promote the arts, history, and culture of Portsmouth and the Seacoast.
We are looking for people who have a few hours to spare, whether it’s once a season or once a week—from high-schoolers looking to fulfill their volunteering requirements, to retirees eager to be active in the community.
About Us
“This place should be your first stop when visiting Portsmouth. There is information, free brochures, and maps about everywhere in town. The walls are covered with signs about historic places, and the shop sells wonderful, locally-made items. There is also a free movie about the history of Portsmouth to watch, and dozens of books about Portsmouth’s history for sale. There are rotating art exhibitions here as well, which are really well-curated!”
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