Lee Hayden Gallery at Legacy Village in Lyndhurst was named the best gallery in Ohio by the 2026 American Art Awards.

The gallery was recognized as part of the American Art Awards’ 20 Best Art Galleries in the USA for 2026. Selections were based on factors including years established, industry reputation, location, size, aesthetics, socially relevant exhibits, educational and motivational programs, online presence, represented artists and references from artists, clients and visitors, according to a news release.

.Lee Hayden Gallery has served international art collectors for more than 20 years in Northeast Ohio and is located at Legacy Village. Owner Kevin O’Donnell exhibits new artwork weekly, including original paintings, sculptures, glass and rare limited-edition prints.

“Today most of our clients reside outside of our home state, all across America and around the world,” O’Donnell said in a the release. “We are humbled by the trust placed in us by collectors of all types far and wide.”

The 4,000-square foot gallery near the Legacy Village Lawn currently displays work from 70 artists representing 20 countries.

Among the artists represented by the gallery is Texas artist Todd White, who has been represented by Lee Hayden Gallery longer than any other artist. White began his career in animation, working as lead character designer for “SpongeBob SquarePants” and other cartoons before pursuing fine art.

The gallery also represents United Kingdom artist Rob Hefferan, known for romantic impressionist paintings as well as pop-style figurative works and Georgia artist John Hill, who creates portraits using mixed media.

“Northeast Ohio has a tremendous art community, and Legacy Village is thrilled to be the home of Ohio’s top art gallery,” Susan Windle, general manager of Legacy Village, said in the release. “Lee Hayden Gallery is a popular draw for our art-loving visitors who are looking to add unique and fun pieces to their collections.”