The Portsmouth Historical Society is thrilled to announce their 2025 exhibition, “Cabot Lyford: Winds of Change,” a landmark exhibition that honors the life and artistry of one of New England’s most iconic sculptors. The exhibition is open now until November 2 and can be visited daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. This exhibition features over 100 works by Cabot Lyford (1925–2016), many of which have not been seen in decades. Locals may recognize Lyford’s monumental public sculptures, including “My Mother the Wind” on Four Tree Island and “Fisherman’s Luck” in Prescott Park. “We are proud to shed more light on an artist whose work is familiar to many in Portsmouth and the surrounding area, but whose remarkable story is less well known,” said Emma Stratton, Executive Director. Lyford had a deep connection to this region—not only through his years teaching at Phillips Exeter Academy and his later life in New Harbor, Maine but also through his bold artistic experimentation and his lifelong advocacy through art. In addition to Lyford’s remarkable pieces, the exhibition includes a companion showcase titled “Contemporary Currents,” in collaboration with the New Hampshire Art Association. This exhibition highlights the work of local artists who engage with the themes of advocacy and experimentation that Lyford passionately championed, bridging the gap between past and present. “This exhibition serves as both a tribute to his legacy and an exploration of the vibrant dialogue between historical and contemporary artistic expression. We invite everyone to come and experience the impact of his work,” added guest curator Rachel Walls. To further enrich your visit, Walls will offer Curator’s Tours every first Friday of the month at 12:00 and 5:30 p.m. These tours provide unique insights into the works on display, personal anecdotes about Cabot Lyford, and highlight the ways that current events impacted Lyford’s art. We encourage everyone to visit this exhibition and learn about the lasting cultural impact of Cabot Lyford’s artistry. This exhibition is open now until November 2 and can be visited daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Admission begins at $5.To learn more about the Portsmouth Historical Society’s exhibitions and related programs, please call 603-436-8433 or visit www.portsmouthhistory.org.

ABOUT The PORTSMOUTH HISTORICAL SOCIETY

The Portsmouth Historical Society’s museums and programs connect the community to our past, present, and future through collections, interpretation, education, and preservation. It operates two facilities: the Welcome Center and Galleries and the John Paul Jones House. The Portsmouth Historical Society serves as a cultural hub for Portsmouth, providing visitors and the community with rotating exhibitions, dynamic programming, historic walking tours, and a museum shop of unique Portsmouth gifts and books. Located at 10 Middle Street, they are open daily from 10am-5pm, from April through December. For further information, please call 603-436-8433 or visit PortsmouthHistory.org.