La Chale: Life Through Her Lens Celebrates New London’s Story in Photographs
La Chale: Life Through Her Lens celebrates the people, events, and milestones that have shaped New London through the camera of local photographer La Chale Gillis. Taking place on Saturday, July 25, from 2:00 to 4:00 p.m. at the New London Community Recreation Center, the free photo art show honors more than a decade of documenting the city’s community life while marking the first anniversary of the recreation center.
Since 2014, Gillis has photographed many of New London’s defining moments, from neighborhood gatherings and community celebrations to school sporting events, talent shows, and some of the city’s largest public events. Her work serves as a visual timeline of New London’s people and places, capturing both everyday moments and milestone occasions that reflect the character and spirit of the community.
The exhibition also celebrates the first anniversary of the New London Community Recreation Center, a facility that has become a gathering place for residents of all ages. Visitors will have the opportunity to experience Gillis’ photography while reflecting on the events, achievements, and connections that continue to shape New London.
Event Details
Event: La Chale: Life Through Her Lens
Date: Saturday, July 25, 2026
Time: 2:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m.
Location: New London Community Recreation Center
1 Recreation Way
New London, CT 06320
Admission: Free
About the Exhibition
Rather than focusing on landscapes or studio portraits, La Chale Gillis’ photography tells the story of a community through the people who live there. Her images capture celebrations, accomplishments, performances, athletic achievements, and everyday moments that might otherwise fade with time.
For longtime residents, the exhibition offers an opportunity to revisit familiar faces and memorable events. For newer members of the community, it provides a window into the people and experiences that have helped shape New London over the past decade.
Celebrating Community Connections
The exhibition is part of the New London Community Recreation Center’s first anniversary celebration, highlighting the center’s role as a place where residents gather, learn, celebrate, and build relationships. Pairing the anniversary with a retrospective of Gillis’ photography reinforces the center’s mission of bringing people together while celebrating the stories that connect the community.
Why Attend
Photography has the unique ability to preserve moments that define a community. Whether you recognize familiar faces, remember attending one of the featured events, or simply enjoy documentary photography, La Chale: Life Through Her Lens offers a meaningful look at New London’s recent history through the work of a photographer who has spent years capturing it.
