Our Buildings

An important part of the Providence Art Club's mission is the preservation of our four historic buildings. From the early years of our organization's existence, these properties have been the face of our Club to the public and the pulsating hub of our member activities. Together, this proud row of buildings symbolize art and culture, history and architecture, allĀ  characteristics that define our Club as well as our home city.

Warren Jagger Exterior 1

The Art Club is composed of a "picturesque procession" of historic buildings. Photo by Warren Jagger.

The Club House

Perhaps the first brick veneer structure in Providence, the three-story dwelling was built by Seril Dodge in 1790 and bought in 1799 by Moses Brown for his son Obadiah. Long known as the Obadiah Brown Brick House, it was first leased to the Providence Art Club in 1886 and deeded to the Art Club in 1906. Today the Clubhouse is home to the Club's charming cafe, its intimate bar, and two exhibition spaces that are open to the public.

The Seril Dodge House

This elegant house was built by Seril Dodge between 1786 and 1789. Dodge had come to Providence in 1784 after serving an apprenticeship with Thomas Harland of Norwich, an important figure in Connecticut clockmaking. Acquired by the Club in 1917, the Dodge House has a storefront gallery on the first floor, a gracious dining room, and the upper floors house period rooms and administrative offices.

The Deacon Edward Taylor House

Built in 1784 by Deacon Edward Taylor, whose descendants lived there for more than a century, the Deacon Edward Taylor house is the oldest house on the street. For a time it was leased to RISD as administrative offices, but for more than 20 years it has hosted 10 artists studios for Club members.

The Fleur de Lys Building

Built in 1885, the building was designed by Sydney Richmond Burleigh with Providence architect Edmund R. Willson and is one of the most delightful in Providence. Through its Norman, half-timbered facade, the structure lends what some have called a 16th century atmosphere to Thomas Street. Deeded to the Club at Burleigh's passing, the Fleur de Lys houses six artist studios, which are often open to the public.