John Rogers Studio

The John Rogers Studio is a sculptor's workplace in New Canaan featuring Gothic-Victorian design with large windows that provided natural light for the artist's work. The building now houses an extensive collection of plaster sculptures created throughout the 1800s.

The artist started his business in 1860 and built his own studio in 1878, where he produced tens of thousands of plaster sculptures for the mass market. The building became a landmark for an artist who made sculptures accessible to everyday Americans.

The studio displays Rogers Groups, plaster sculptures showing scenes from the Civil War, theater performances, and everyday American life. These works were affordable for ordinary people and decorated many homes during the 1800s.

The building uses climate control to protect its collection of historic plaster works. Visitors will find the rooms naturally lit and the collection sized for a comfortable visit without feeling overwhelming.

The artist sold his works for a fixed price of around 14 dollars, making them accessible to broad segments of the population. This business approach was unusual for art objects during the 1800s.