The Aldrich Contemporary Art Museum in Ridgefield, Connecticut, is set to redefine the landscape of regional art exhibitions with the launch of its new "Aldrich Decennial" series. Announced in early 2026, this ambitious initiative promises a comprehensive survey of artists living and working in Connecticut every ten years, emphasizing fresh voices and innovative works created within the past decade. As the state's sole institution dedicated exclusively to contemporary art, the Aldrich aims to bridge local talent with global audiences, highlighting the creative vitality that thrives outside major urban art hubs like New York City or Los Angeles. This move not only celebrates Connecticut's rich artistic heritage but also positions the museum as a forward-thinking beacon for emerging and established creators alike.
Drawing inspiration from rare decennial models like Germany's Sculpture Projects Münster, the Aldrich Decennial stands out in a world dominated by biennials, triennials, and quinquennials. While events like the Whitney Biennial or Documenta occur more frequently, the Aldrich's slower pace allows for deeper reflection on artistic evolution over time. The inaugural edition, titled "I am what is around me," will run from June 27, 2026, to January 10, 2027, transforming the museum's 8,000-square-foot galleries and its three-acre sculpture garden into a dynamic showcase of 40 international artists. This exhibition underscores the museum's 60-year commitment to supporting Connecticut-based artists, a tradition that echoes the state's historical role as a haven for visionaries such as Anni Albers, Josef Albers, Louise Bourgeois, and Sol LeWitt.
Curatorial Vision and Research Process
At the helm of this groundbreaking survey are chief curator Amy Smith-Stewart and publications manager Caitlin Monachino, who embarked on an exhaustive research journey involving over 100 studio visits across Connecticut. Their curatorial approach focuses on artists who have not previously exhibited in the state, ensuring a fresh perspective on contemporary practices. The theme "I am what is around me" draws from the idea that artists' works are profoundly influenced by their environments, exploring how personal, cultural, and geographical contexts shape creative output. As Smith-Stewart stated, "Connecticut has always been a site for visionary artists and daring ideas... This survey spotlights artists who call this place home—artists whose work is deeply rooted in the Museum’s community yet resonates far beyond it."
Executive director Cybele Maylone echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the museum's dual mission: "While The Aldrich’s expansive mission highlights the work of living artists from around the United States and the world, over the past 60 years the Museum has also had an enduring interest in artists living and working in Connecticut. With the debut of this inaugural series, we are so proud to spotlight the immense talent in our small but mighty state." The exhibition will be accompanied by a comprehensive catalog, further cementing its role in documenting and disseminating these artists' contributions to the broader art world.
(Image source: The Aldrich Contemporary Art Museum Official Site - Exterior view of the museum)
Highlighted Artists and Their Contributions
The 2026 Decennial features a diverse roster of 40 artists, spanning generations from Lucy Sallick (born 1937) to Remy Sosa (born 1995). This intergenerational dialogue highlights the continuity and innovation within Connecticut's art scene. Notable participants include Dominic Chambers, whose dreamlike paintings explore Black identity and introspection; Tammy Nguyen, known for her layered, narrative-driven works blending history and mythology; Em Rooney, a sculptor pushing boundaries with materials and form; Aki Sasamoto, whose installations often incorporate performance and everyday objects; and Julia Wachtel, a pioneer in appropriation art critiquing consumer culture.
One featured work is Tammy Nguyen's The Sky is Open (2025), a vibrant piece that exemplifies her fusion of Vietnamese heritage with global themes, courtesy of Lehmann Maupin Gallery. Similarly, Jilaine Jones's Archer (2021) captures dynamic energy through sculpture, while Gary Burnley's Untitled (2024–25) offers abstract explorations of form and color.
(Image source: Blanton Museum of Art - Tammy Nguyen Exhibition - Related artwork by Tammy Nguyen)
The full artist list reflects a broad spectrum of backgrounds and mediums: Faustin Adeniran (b. 1988), Ellen Altfest (b. 1970), Scott Carrillo Azevedo (b. 1983), Jen Bervin (b. 1972), Carlos Bautista Biernnay (b. 1969), Lula Mae Blocton (b. 1947), Gary Burnley (b. 1950), Dominic Chambers (b. 1993), Carl D’Alvia (b. 1965), Chris Domenick (b. 1982), Anindita Dutta (b. 1973), Azza El Siddique (b. 1984), Anoka Faruqee (b. 1972) & David Driscoll (b. 1964), Enrique Figueredo (b. 1980), Lizzie Gill (b. 1989), Renee Gladman (b. 1971), Dan Gunn (b. 1980), Edward Henderson (b. 1951), Huê Thi Hoffmaster (b. 1982), Kristy Hughes (b. 1987), Jilaine Jones (b. 1959), Arghavan Khosravi (b. 1984), Sonja Langford (b. 1994), Emily Larned (b. 1977), Jihyun Lee (b. 1979), Beck Lowry (b. 1980), Danica Lundy (b. 1991), Tammy Nguyen (b. 1984), Grace O’Connor (b. 1974), Em Rooney (b. 1983), Lucy Sallick (b. 1937), Kern Samuel (b. 1990), Aki Sasamoto (b. 1980), John Shen (b. 1990), Remy Sosa (b. 1995), Philip Taaffe (b. 1955), Felandus Thames (b. 1974), Amanda Russhell Wallace (b. 1986), and Julia Wachtel (b. 1956).
(Image source: The Art Newspaper - Dominic Chambers - Painting by Dominic Chambers)
Historical Context and Broader Impact
Connecticut's allure for artists dates back decades, attracting figures like Kay Sage, Yves Tanguy, Alexander Calder, Jasper Johns, and Barkley Hendricks. The Aldrich Decennial builds on this legacy, fostering a sense of community while challenging the centrality of urban art markets. By installing works across indoor galleries and outdoor spaces, the exhibition invites visitors to engage with art in varied settings, from intimate viewings to immersive garden experiences.
This initiative also addresses broader trends in the art world, where regional surveys gain prominence amid discussions on decentralization and inclusivity. Unlike fast-paced biennials, the decennial format allows for sustained impact, potentially influencing how other institutions approach long-term programming.
(Image source: Bortolami Gallery - Aki Sasamoto - Installation by Aki Sasamoto)
Featured Artworks and Installations
Among the highlights is Jilaine Jones's Archer (2021), a sculpture that embodies tension and release, photographed by Tim Nighswander. Gary Burnley's Untitled (2024–25) pushes abstract boundaries, while Lucy Sallick's contributions reflect a lifetime of painterly exploration.
(Image source: Lachaise Foundation Instagram - Related work by Jilaine Jones)
(Image source: Candela Books + Gallery - Gary Burnley - Untitled by Gary Burnley)
(Image source: LiveAuctioneers - Lucy Sallick - Watercolor by Lucy Sallick)
Looking Ahead: The Future of the Decennial
As the Aldrich prepares for its 2026 opening, anticipation builds for how this series will evolve. Future editions could expand themes or incorporate new technologies, ensuring Connecticut remains a vibrant node in the global art network. Visitors are encouraged to explore the museum's renovated grounds, which enhance the outdoor component of the show.
FAQ
Q: What is the Aldrich Decennial? A: It's a new recurring survey exhibition at the Aldrich Contemporary Art Museum, held every 10 years, focusing on Connecticut-based artists and their recent works.
Q: When does the first Aldrich Decennial open? A: The inaugural edition, "I am what is around me," runs from June 27, 2026, to January 10, 2027.
Q: Who are the curators for the 2026 exhibition? A: Chief curator Amy Smith-Stewart and publications manager Caitlin Monachino.
Q: How many artists are featured in the first Decennial? A: 40 artists, ranging in age from 28 to 89, including international talents like Dominic Chambers and Tammy Nguyen.
Q: What makes this exhibition unique? A: It features artists who haven't exhibited in Connecticut before, spans indoor galleries and outdoor sculpture gardens, and emphasizes works made in the last decade.
Q: Where can I learn more about the Aldrich Museum? A: Visit the official Aldrich website for details on exhibitions, tickets, and catalogs.
0 comments