The Newport Art Museum is reviving its Members’ Juried Exhibition, titled “Springboard,” after a strategic planning process revealed strong community demand. The exhibition opens January 22, 2026, in the museum’s historic John N.A. Griswold House and runs through May 31, 2026. Julie Keyes, founder of Keyes Art, will serve as juror, and current museum members may submit one to five works created within the past two years. Awards include Juror’s Choice, Emerging Artist Award, and Award for Innovation. The show will feature members’ works alongside pieces from the permanent collection, exploring themes of cultural inheritance, artistic lineage, and collective memory.
This revival matters because it demonstrates how direct community input can shape museum programming, reinforcing the institution’s role as a responsive cultural hub. The exhibition also bridges emerging and established artists, fostering dialogue between contemporary practice and historical works. By re-establishing a tradition that had lapsed, the museum strengthens its relationship with members and local artists, potentially boosting engagement and attendance.