60 Years, Sixty Works is an exhibition celebrating six decades of The Hardy Gallery’s integral role in
nurturing the arts within Door County, Wisconsin. Running from August 30 to October 13, 2024, this
exhibition features 60 exceptional works of art, each representing the diverse and dynamic voices
that have shaped the region’s artistic legacy.
Door County, with its stunning landscapes and tranquil environment, has long been a haven for artists
seeking inspiration. Over the years, it has evolved into a thriving arts colony, thanks to its natural
beauty, supportive community, and the vision of pioneering artists and organizations. From the early
20th century, when the first artists settled in the area, to the establishment of key cultural institutions
like the Peninsula School of Art, the Miller Art Museum, and The Clearing Folk School, Door County’s
artistic identity has been meticulously crafted by generations of creative minds.
The Hardy Gallery, celebrating its 60th anniversary in 2022, has been at the forefront of this cultural
renaissance. Situated in the historic Anderson warehouse on Ephraim’s iconic Anderson Dock, the
gallery has provided a non-commercial exhibition space for hundreds of artists, fostering a commu-
nity where creativity and cultural expression flourish. Over the past six decades, The Hardy Gallery
has played a crucial role in promoting local and regional artists, many of whom have made significant
contributions to the broader art world.
The 60 Years, Sixty Works exhibition is more than just a retrospective; it’s a testament to the ongoing
vitality of Door County’s arts scene. The selected works, spanning various styles, mediums, and periods,
offer a vibrant tapestry of the county’s artistic evolution. Each piece tells a story, not just of the artist
who created it, but of the collective journey of a community that values and supports the arts.
The exhibition serves as a tribute to the artists, supporters, and institutions that have made Door County
a distinguished arts colony, and as a beacon for future generations of artists and art lovers.
