Dutchess County Historical Society

Caroline M. Clowes (1838—1904) was nationally known & celebrated during her lifetime as an accomplished animal & landscape painter. Depicting Dutchess County scenes from her LaGrange backyard studio, her life and works have been lost to the chronicle of art for over 100 years. Recently rediscovered by her family, and recently restored and researched by the Dutchess County Historical Society, this is the first exhibit of her life story, illustrated by her paintings, sketches, letters, and personal items. The online exhibition of her work uses new and creative ways for you to engage with and learn about her work and life. Originally planned with a traditional, physical exhibition of her work, that portion is delayed until 2021 given the pandemic. The exhibition examines four phases. Caroline's early life growing up in the remote woodlands of Sullivan County. The phase of her becoming an artist, first through talented family members, then through formal world, class teachers in Poughkeepsie. We will look at her work, in terms of the whole scope of her work, including her work being featured at the 1876 Philadelphia Exposition on the nation's 100th anniversary. Then we'll examine her death, the decline of her legacy, and its energetic rebirth!