WESTERLY, RI.- A new cultural landmark is coming to southern Rhode Island this fall. The Westerly Museum of American Impressionism (WMAI) will officially open its doors to the public on Thursday, October 9, 2025, offering a spectacular space to experience the beauty, creativity, and enduring legacy of American Impressionist painting.
Situated on the scenic Watch Hill Road with sweeping views of the Pawcatuck River, the museum features 20,000 square feet with eleven galleries dedicated solely to the exhibition, study, and preservation of American Impressionist art from the 1880s to 1920s.
Founded by longtime Westerly residents Dr. Thomas and Cynthia Sculco, the WMAI will showcase approximately 150 paintings the couple has collected over four decades. The collection includes works by celebrated artists such as Childe Hassam, John Singer Sargent, Edmund Tarbell, Jane Peterson, and Lilla Cabot Perry, alongside exceptional works by lesser-known artists whose contributions merit greater recognition. In addition to building this remarkable collection, the Sculcos have been generous philanthropists, supporting arts and education organizations in both Rhode Island and New York.
“To our knowledge, this may be the only museum in the country dedicated entirely to American Impressionism,” said Dr. Thomas Sculco. “Cynthia and I are honored to bring this cultural addition to Westerly and to not only share these extraordinary works with the community but to educate all ages about their artistic heritage.”
Working with the Sculcos, Catherine Shotick, the museum’s director, has played a key role in the curation and narrative of the museum galleries. “This museum not only showcases extraordinary works of art but also shares the stories of the artists and communities that shaped American Impressionism. We cannot wait for visitors to step inside and experience it for themselves” said Shotick.
Visitors to the Westerly Museum of American Impressionism will trace the origins of Impressionism in Europe, particularly in France, and its transformation into a distinctly American art form, capturing the nation’s landscapes, seascapes, portraits, still lifes, and scenes of everyday life. Galleries will highlight iconic artist colonies along the New England coast, from Old Lyme, Connecticut, to Ogunquit, Maine. These vibrant creative hubs fostered innovation and produced works that reflect both the cultural shifts of the era and the distinctive contributions of American artists, including many women. Other galleries display more thematic presentations and focused exhibitions on individual artists.
Beyond its exhibitions, the WMAI aims to be a new cultural anchor in the community by hosting an annual lecture series, developing educational partnerships with local schools, collaborating with regional cultural institutions, and creating an internship program for college students. A dedicated Library and Learning Center will further serve scholars, students, and the public.
