The Helen L. Smith Studio at Lucy School

This building was used by the renowned Maryland artist Helen L. Smith (1894-1997) from 1940 until her death at the age of 103. Her prominence as a fine artist and illustrator grew into national acclaim, including recognition from First Lady Mamie Eisenhower, the Duchess of Windsor, and the Daughters of the American Revolution. In 1992, some of her works were accepted into the National Museum of Women in the Arts Collection. Helen Smith was honored by virtually every organization in Frederick County and received honorary degrees from Mount St. Mary’s College and Hood College. The Maryland Institute College of Art named her as an outstanding alumnus. In 2018, the studio was moved from the site of Miss Smith's home near Frederick and donated by the Frederick Church of Christ to Lucy School to help educate student artists in the school’s arts-based curriculum. Over several years, The Helen Smith Studio Committee organized and executed the project.

Today, Helen is designated as Lucy School’s permanent, in memoriam Artist-in-Residence, embedding her story into our curriculum and school culture. To honor the breadth of Helen’s artistic practice, students explore a wide range of projects inspired by her techniques, materials, and values.

To tour the Helen L. Smith Studio, please email admin@lucyschool.org.