Thursday, May 22, 2025
Raynham Hall Museum opened its spring art exhibition, Unfinished Revolutions, on April 10, drawing roughly 100 guests to an evening of thought-provoking artwork and conversation.
The exhibit, which runs through Sept. 21, features a wide range of pieces inspired by the theme of America’s ongoing transformation and struggle toward its founding ideals. The title nods to the approaching 250th anniversary of American independence in 2026.
“It’s one of the New York State themes for the upcoming 250th anniversary,” said museum director Harriet Clark. “They’ve been working on that for a number of years.”
The exhibition features works by local artists, with participants ranging in age from 16 to 86. Artists submitted their work in response to an open call, and the resulting collection showcases diverse perspectives and mediums, from painting and sculpture to video art.
Michael P.R. Galatro, an Oyster Bay native and contributing artist, presented a mixed-media sculpture titled The American Dream. The piece incorporates glass and bold colors to depict unity through fragmentation.
“This was really one of my first breakthrough pieces,” Galatro said. “I was trying to create something awe-inspiring and thought-provoking—a visual for them to be able to get an experience and feel drawn in by all the elements that create what is the American Dream.”
The artist said the theme of “unfinished revolutions” helped him see his own work in a new light.
“The whole beauty of America itself is never fully finished,” Galatro said. “We’ve had dark days, but I wanted to keep it on a positive vibe—showing that even through darkness, those who love America stick together.”
Clark emphasized that the exhibition reflects a broad range of political and cultural views.
“We got artists from all over the political spectrum,” she said, “which we enjoy because we like the conversation.”
Among the highlighted works are a striking American flag painting by Steph Mouw and a pig sculpture by a local artist. Video works by Jennifer Appel add a contemporary and experimental edge to the show.
Artwork is available for purchase, with artists retaining proceeds and encouraged to make a voluntary 15 percent donation to the museum.
“It’s a fundraiser in part,” Clark said, “and people are always encouraged to donate.”
Galatro, who visited the exhibit a second time, was struck by the range of interpretations. “There was a lot of beautiful messages. It really got me thinking—everyone’s perspective finds its way to relate in some way into your own soul.”
Raynham Hall hosts two exhibitions each year, with Unfinished Revolutions marking this year’s artistic offering, with a collections and artifacts-focused show to follow in the fall.
For more information on visiting “Unfinished Revolutions” at Raynham Hall Museum, located at 20 West Main Street, Oyster Bay, visit their website RaynhamHallMuseum.org or contact them directly at (516) 922-6808.
