For the summer, the Churchill Building Company at 332 Main Street in Lakeville, owned by Peggy Rice, has been transformed into a group exhibition space featuring artwork by emerging and established artists. Curated by private art dealer Kim Schmidt, who is based in Manhattan and Millerton, the 2026 Summer Salon Session opened on July 18, bringing together work by 45 artists in an exhibition designed to make art more approachable for collectors and casual viewers alike.
Committed to making art more accessible by bringing it into everyday spaces rather than museums and galleries, Schmidt hopes the “pop-up” will create a more inclusive environment where art lovers can discover a wide range of work while emerging artists have the opportunity to exhibit alongside more established figures.
“I really wanted it to be that mix of discovery, where you can walk in and buy something for $1,400, but it might be standing right next to something that’s $100,000,” Schmidt said.
Many of the featured artists are local, reflecting Schmidt’s strong ties to the region’s arts community. Those connections began when she and her husband organized fundraising auctions for Ukraine at The Re Institute in Millerton and Troutbeck in Amenia, introducing her to many of the artists who now participate in her exhibitions. The Summer Salon is open Saturdays and by appointment, with all works on view available for purchase.
Having purchased her first piece of art at 16 and spent four decades in the art world, Schmidt places as much value on the stories behind the artwork as the work itself. She said understanding an artist’s practice and motivations is central to the way she presents each piece.
“I am fascinated, and I really want to be able to discuss anything on the wall in a way that the artist is speaking through me.”
The Summer Salon is located at 332 Main St. in Lakeville and is open Saturdays 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. through Labor Day. To book an appointment, call (917)742-6456 or email kimschmidtart@gmail.com. To view the works on exhibit, visit kimschmidtfineart.com.
Justine and Victor Valla in their studio with a painting of Victor’s,”Jonah and the Whale.” Robin Roraback 
