Chester Gallery reopens Aug. 3

CHESTER — The Chester Gallery has changed hands after 36 years and will officially reopen August 3 with a new show entitled Celebrating Summer.

Longtime gallerist, artist and framer Nancy Pinney has taken over operation of the business from founder Sosse Baker. The 1860 farmhouse that contains the gallery has been revived with fresh paint and the addition of a sculpture garden throughout the grounds.

The gallery will exhibit works by more than a dozen artists, most of whom are new to the Chester Gallery. They include Sheila Barbone, Serena Bates, Sarah Blair, Rosamund Christison, Stephanie Chubbuck, Ignacio Gana, Sean Kratzert, Michael McLaughlin, Nancy Pinney, Frederick Schavoir, Fred Trinkaus, Jerry Weiss and Annie Wildey. Sosse Baker’s handmade baskets will continue to be shown, along with the work of two artists who have long associations with the gallery: Richard Ziemann and Sol Lewitt.

“Given that we’re opening the gallery in August, I thought it was only appropriate that the first show should pay homage to summer,” Pinney said in a written statement. “The theme will run through most of the artists’ work. We’ll have refreshments out on the patio and music on the deck to enjoy the sculptures, garden and to celebrate the reopening of this beautiful gallery."

Continuing a tradition started by Sosse Baker’s late husband, Jack Baker, the gallery will also offer custom museum framing and frame restoration, building upon Pinney’s nearly four decades in the framing business.

The grand reopening Aug. 3 coincides with Chester’s town-wide First Friday celebration, and will take place from 5 to 8 p.m. The Chester Gallery is located at 76 Main Street. Normal business hours are Wednesday through Saturday, 12-6 p.m., or by appointment. (Sundays by chance.) Celebrating Summer will remain on view through Sept. 22. For more information, visit chestergalleryct.com or call 860-449-3617.