The Newport Art Museum will open “THE COURT: Art in Play” on Sept. 24, featuring works by seven artists who also compete in court tennis, the historic precursor to modern tennis.
The exhibition, organized by internationally recognized artist and court tennis champion Frederika Adam, runs through April 26, 2026, at the Historic Griswold House. It includes animation, book art, painting, photography and memorabilia by Adam, Elizabeth Curren, Charles Johnstone, Joshua Mosley, Bill Sullivan, Robert Manice and Philip Howard.
“Tennis plays a prominent role in Newport’s history and in the city’s life and culture today,” said Harry Philbrick, the museum’s executive director. “This exhibition explores the origins of court tennis, providing a richer understanding of the sport’s history through the lens of contemporary art.”
Newport’s connection to tennis dates to 1880, when the Newport Casino opened and hosted the first U.S. Nationals one year later. The casino, now home to the International Tennis Hall of Fame, is located near the museum and houses the National Tennis Club, which operates one of only 11 active court tennis courts in the country.
The exhibition includes items from the Tennis Hall of Fame’s permanent collection alongside the artists’ works.
“Tennis, notably court tennis, is an ancient game with a rich visual history that is the foundation for all modern racquet sports played today,” Adam said. “The chance to bring together a group of exceptional artists while working with the collection of the ITHoF is a unique opportunity.”
The exhibition is supported by The United States Court Tennis Preservation Foundation, The Damon Company and several private donors.
A free opening reception will be held Thursday, Sept. 24, at 6 p.m. RSVPs are requested.
The museum plans to open a companion exhibition called “Sport!” this fall, featuring racquet sports and other Newport pastimes from the museum’s permanent collection.
Founded in 1912, the Newport Art Museum offers programming and exhibitions featuring classic and contemporary art.
