— EXHIBITION SERIES —
Vin & Hazel Hannell: Creativity, Community, Conservation
Art is an enduring element in the cultural history of Porter County. Within that history, few have had as lasting an impact as Hazel (1895-2002) and Vin (1896-1964) Hannell. The Hannells helped establish an artists’ colony in Furnessville, organized the first Chesterton Art Fair, and were active in the movement to save the Indiana Dunes.
They created art—both fine and functional—and became famous for both. Even decades after their deaths, the Hannells continue to influence Porter County and its art community through the organizations they helped create and the art that depicts the dunes that they loved.
Between May and October 2025, community partners will collectively illustrate the life and influence of Hazel and Vin Hannell through exhibitions and educational programs.
Exhibits & Events
Porter County Museum
Life Work: The Artists Hazel + Vin Hannell
May 9— October 26, 2025
Life Work explores what it means to be an artist by mapping the wide-ranging artistic journeys of Hazel & Vin Hannell from Chicago to Furnessville and beyond. Hazel’s creative life spanned three centuries, and Vin’s artistic origins went back to Finland. Throughout their prolific, passionate, and generous careers, the Hannells worked in many media, including sculpture, drawing, painting, printmaking, and pottery, and established themselves as emblematic regional artists of the mid-twentieth century.
Saturday, June 21, 3-5 pm
Exhibit Series Kick-off Party
The Art Barn School of Art
Enduring Connection: Exploring Hazel Hannell As a Lifelong Artist & Influencer
June 10—September 25, 2025
Enduring Connection focuses on Hazel Hannell’s dedication to building a creative and educational community in Porter County, and her contributions at Art Barn. The exhibition will also highlight connections between Hazel’s lifelong artistic practice, Art Barn’s mission to support creative learning for all ages, and the ways learning can positively impact aging adults.
June 13, 6 pm: Opening Reception & Informational Talk
July 12, 9 am - 1 pm: Educational Art Program - Gelli Printing workshop
Sept. 20: Art Blitz Festh
Chesterton Art Center
Right Here: Vin + Hazel Hannell and Their Continued Influence
July 1—August 30, 2025
Right Here pairs the Hannells’ historic works with twenty-four contemporary regional artists who continue to be inspired by the dunes, our natural surroundings, and the work to protect and conserve the landscape we cherish. It is a full-circle moment to bring the Hannells into conversation with current artists and the community who continue to benefit from their vision and perseverance.
July 18, 4-7 pm: Meet the Artists Reception
July 24, 5 pm: Talk on the Hannells' involvement in establishing the Chesterton Art Fair by historian Serena Ard.
Pines Village Retirement Communities
Hazel Hannell: Artful Aging
August 10—October 2, 2025
Artful Aging honors Hazel Hannell’s artistic journey, showcasing works from her golden years. She dedicated her life to nature-inspired art, pursuing her passion until her passing at 106. Hazel truly embodied the essence of positive aging. Her long and impactful life encourages us to embrace our passions at every stage of life.
August 10, 2 pm: Opening reception with a talk by historian Serena Ard on Hazel Hannel’s journey and lasting impact on the community.
