The main gallery of the Whistler House Museum of Art.

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James McNeill Whistler's Arrangement in Grey and Black, No. 1: Portrait of the Artist’s Mother

Washer Woman, Wendy James, Oil on canvas, 36 x 24 in.

200th Anniversary of Lowell
April 18, 2026 - August 1, 2026

KEROUAC Beat and Counterculture Portraits
August 22, 2026 - October 31, 2026

The Birthplace of James McNeill Whistler

Open Wednesday – Saturday: 11 AM – 4 PM

Whistler House Museum of Art
243 Worthen Street • Lowell, MA 01852

Built in c. 1825 by the Proprietors of Locks and Canals, the Whistler House Museum of Art represents the richness of the history and art of Lowell, Massachusetts. The WHMA maintains a permanent collection of nineteenth- and twentieth-century American art, organizes contemporary and historical fine arts exhibitions, and offers educational and cultural programs for all members of the community.

Plan Your Visit

Celebrating 200 Years of the Historic House

The front door of the Whistler House Museum of Art.

At Home

The WHMA is committed to returning the 200-year-old Federal and Greek Revival house to its original 19th-century glory. Learn more about our completed and ongoing Historic Preservation projects at the historic house.

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A statue of James McNeill Whistler by Mico Kaufman.

In the Neighborhood

Through partnerships with schools, non-profits, and other art associations, the WHMA advances Lowell as a center for creativity. For example, the James McNeill Whistler Distinguished Art Award honors individuals who have demonstrated leadership, innovation, progressive thinking, and promotion of the arts.

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Executive Director Sara Bogosian stands with US Ambassador to Madrid James Costos.

Around the World

Just like the artist born in the house, the Whistler House Museum of Art has traveled internationally to share the life and legacy of James McNeill Whistler. Programs like Art in Embassies bring Whistler’s art to Madrid, other international organizations, and beyond.

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Featured Exhibits

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KEROUAC: Beat and Counterculture Portraits

August 22, 2026 - October 31, 2026

The Whistler House Museum of Art (WHMA) is thrilled to announce its upcoming exhibition, KEROUAC: Beat and Counterculture Portraits — Paintings by Jonathan Collins. The show will run from August 22 to October 31, 2026. An opening reception will be held on Saturday, September 12, from 1 to 3 p.m. in the Parker Gallery.

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Featured Exhibits

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200th Anniversary of Lowell Exhibition 2026

April 18, 2026 - August 1, 2026

The Whistler House Museum of Art (WHMA) is pleased to announce its upcoming 200th Anniversary of Lowell Exhibition 2026. The show will run from April 18, 2026 to June 20, 2026. An opening reception will be held on Saturday, April 18, from 1 to 3 p.m. in the Parker Gallery.

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Featured Exhibits

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Artists in Residence 1900-2025

February 21, 2025 - May 30, 2025

The Whistler House Museum of Art (WHMA) is pleased to announce its upcoming Artists in Residence Exhibition 1900 – 2025. The show will run from February 21, 2025, to May 30, 2025. An opening reception will be held on Saturday, March 1, from 1 to 3 p.m. in the Parker Gallery.

This year the WHMA will be celebrating the 200th anniversary of the historic Whistler House edifice, built circa 1825. Visitors can celebrate this historic milestone as the museum presents a long line of Whistler House Artists-In-Residence, spanning 125 years.

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Wendy James, On Foot, oil on canvas, 36 x 24 in.

Featured Exhibits

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Annual Juried Members Exhibition 2024

November 16, 2024 - January 25, 2025

The Whistler House Museum of Art (WHMA) is pleased to announce its upcoming Annual Juried Members Exhibition 2024. The show will run from November 16, 2024, to January 25, 2025. An opening reception will be held on Saturday, November 16, from 1 to 3 p.m. in the Parker Gallery. In this year’s Annual Juried Members Exhibition, explore works of art from the artist members of the LAA in a wide range of subjects, styles, and mediums.

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A group of children stand with artist smocks, smiling and making peace signs at the camera.

Popular Programs & More

Youth Summer Art Program

Summer 2024

The Youth Summer Art Program (YSAP) is open to children grades 5 to 8, ages 10 to 14 years. Each week of the four-week workshop focuses on a different art form and combines exciting hands-on art creation with museum tours and art history discussions, connecting real works of art with the day’s activity.

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Memberships

Your membership helps to support our many programs and events. Members enjoy free admission to the
Historic House and Parker Gallery, invitation to Whistler House events, and special member ticket prices.

Become a Member