ART: Upcoming Exhibitions at NHAA

Description

Portsmouth, NH — New Hampshire Art Association (NHAA) is pleased to present a dynamic month of exhibitions at the Robert Lincoln Levy Gallery this April, featuring the 40th Annual Omer T. Lassonde Exhibition alongside two solo shows: The Spice of Life by oil painter Sally Newman and Spaces and Places Reimagined by photographer Tom Cawthon. All three exhibitions will be on view April 1–26, 2026, with an opening reception on Friday, April 3, from 5–8 PM.

Celebrating its 40th year, the Omer T. Lassonde Exhibition honors one of NHAA’s founding members and a passionate advocate for artists. Over the past four decades, the exhibition has become one of NHAA’s most anticipated annual events, showcasing contemporary work from artists across New England and reflecting NHAA’s mission to cultivate creativity, community, and culture through art.

This year’s exhibition is juried by Michael Rose, an art gallerist, writer, and arts leader based in Providence, Rhode Island. Cash prizes will be awarded to the top exhibitors: $1,000 for First Place, $750 for Second Place, and $500 for Third Place, along with several Honorable Mentions. This year’s exhibition drew strong regional interest, with 156 artists submitting 372 works.

In The Spice of Life, Sally Newman transforms ordinary moments into vibrant, animated scenes through her distinctive style, which she calls “Anirealism.” Often viewed from above, her paintings emphasize motion, bold color, and the energy of everyday life. Newman has exhibited widely across the United States and is a member of the New Hampshire Art Association, the National Association of Women Artists, and the Copley Society of Art.

In Spaces and Places Reimagined, photographer Tom Cawthon explores the quiet drama of architectural spaces and everyday environments. Through strong composition and attention to light, shadow, and geometry, his photographs reveal abstract beauty within familiar places.