Figurative art academy in historic Old Lyme, Connecticut, dedicated to foundational training in drawing, painting, and sculpture.
The Lyme Academy offers full-time Core Programs in Drawing & Painting and Core Sculpture, emphasizing foundational skills in the figurative tradition. The curriculum integrates rigorous studio instruction with anatomy, art history, and contemporary discourse. The Academy also provides Continuing Education classes, workshops, youth programs, and open studio sessions. All programs are designed around small classes with a high teacher-to-student ratio, reflecting founder Elisabeth Gordon Chandler's philosophy that artists must master fundamentals before pursuing innovation.
The Academy occupies 4 acres in the heart of Old Lyme, centered on the John Sill House (built 1817, adapted 1984). The campus features 10,000 square feet of north-light studios individually designed for drawing, painting, sculpture, and casting; a museum-quality gallery with over 1,000 square feet of exhibition space; and a 10,000-volume fine arts library. Named studios include the Southwick-Keller Studio, Chandler Studio, Weir Studio, and Stobart Studio, each offering specialized working environments. The Wilson Riley Library was renovated in 2025.
Applicants to the full-time Core Programs must submit an online application with 6 artwork examples, a personal statement (max. 500 words), two letters of reference, and a valid government-issued ID image. Early Decision (binding) deadline is March 1, 2026; Regular Decision deadline is June 1, 2026. Students of all levels are encouraged to apply; the Academy seeks those demonstrating strong work ethic and commitment to rigorous study. Enrollment is competitive with limited spaces available. Students may enter during the fall trimester.
Founded in 1976, the Academy was established to teach foundational skills of drawing, painting, and sculpture in the figurative tradition. Between 2014 and 2019, it was affiliated with the University of New Haven for degree-granting programs, but that partnership ended when enrollment targets were not met. Since 2019, the Academy has refocused on its original mission under new leadership, including Artistic Director Jordan Sokol. The Academy's mission is to empower a new generation of artists through skills-based training while enriching the cultural life of the community.