The Society of the Four Arts offers a dynamic lineup of lecturers, cultural programming, art exhibitions, recitals, films, and informative presentations. The Society is home to magnificent gardens and two libraries. The Four Arts is one of Palm Beach’s oldest and most distinguished cultural destinations. 

On Exhibition in the Esther B. O’Keeffe Gallery is an extensive study of “American Impressionism, In a New Light: American Impressionism 1870–1940”. The exhibition presents paintings, prints, and drawings from celebrated artists such as George Innes, Childe Hassam, Thomas Moran, John Sloan, Ernest Lawson, Daniel Garber, Guy Carleton Wiggins, and others.

This presentation follows the rise and evolution of a truly American style in 130 works by more than seventy-five artists. It provides a “thought-provoking historic perspective for American Impressionism by positioning it between the Hudson River School and the modernist trends evident in later pieces on view.”

The “In a New Light” exhibition reflects the ever-changing mindset of America from the mid-19th to early 20th centuries. The exhibition concentrates on regional art colonies that were crucial to the American Impressionist movement, from the Northeast to the Midwest and the American West. “In a New Light” explores the ways in which local artists interpreted America’s rural, maritime, and urban spaces. It portrays daily life using the Impressionistic methods of capturing moments with vigorous brushstrokes, colorful palettes, and effects of the sky.

“In a New Light: American Impressionism 1870– 1940” has been loaned through the Bank of America Art in our Communities program. Docent-led tours of the exhibitions occur at 10:30 a.m. Wednesdays and 11 a.m. Saturdays, and are available on a first-come, first-served basis. The tour is included in the price of admission.