Pop-Up with James Mattison

Posted on by Maine Art

Featured Pop-Up Artists

James Mattison

September 29 – October 29

Gallery at the Grand

1 Chase Hill Rd. Kennebunk, Maine

Open 10 AM

I’ve always admired artists that boldly use color. It takes confidence to view color as a choice. Light and shadow inspire countless possibilities and color arrangements, and it is with those choices between the lines that an artist proves their sense of certainty.

My paintings and their subjects are meant to invoke a feeling of relatability. Typically, my portraiture isn’t anyone in particular. But they are relatable figures. I’ve worked many jobs that required close reading of peoples’ body language and behaviors, and to me, it’s instinctive for an audience to look at someone with intention and try to understand an emotion. I think that instinct is crucial in how someone may interpret a painting. How do we read the expression on their face? What is their body language telling us? Adding these factors together will give the audience a sense of what the subject is expressing, and we, as the viewer, can relate that feeling to a time and place of our own experience. These emotionally charged portraits are an introspective take on moments of honesty with myself.

My landscapes generally have a sunny and warm disposition. They feel comfortable and, more often than not, come from a sense of gratitude. They may be places I’ve visited and found a striking or fabricated scene that feels more like a memory. When I paint, it’s an outlet. Whatever I feel at a given moment eventually reaches the canvas. Whether it’s a person, place, or thing, I hope to capture a sense of solitude. My work is technically unique and fused with a feeling of connective emotionality. That’s where the value lies. Painting is a means to express myself and to start a conversation with a sense of honesty and a feeling of togetherness through times of remoteness.

Reflection – Artist Insights from Claire Bigbee

Posted on by Maine Art

Reflection is from a series from Salmon Falls River in Rollingsford, around the corner from artist Claire Bigbee’s studio.

“As always,” Bigbee smiles, “The reflections in the water of the sky and trees struck me.”

“I have spent a lot of time reflecting on my thirty years of marriage ending,” shares Bigbee. “Allowing the anger and betrayal to return and the hurt and disappointments.”

There is part of the Salmon Falls River that flows into a wider area where it slows down. It is more peaceful away from the rushing falls near her studio.

“Visiting it to paint this series taught me some lessons. First, to appreciate where I am. Second, how far I have come. Last, I am in a better place,” says Bigbee. “Without me realizing it, the river, this place, became part of my healing.”

This show is a must-see for locals and out-of-town visitors from September 2 to 27. Every day from 10 AM to 6 PM at the Gallery at the Grand at 1 Chase Hill Rd in Kennebunk. If you can’t visit the gallery,  see the show virtually at www.maine-art.com/shows. FMI 207-967-2803.

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Click for the  VIRTUAL TOUR 

To read more about this talented woman, click the link below.

Claire Bigbee – Artist Insights

To see our present collection from this artist, click the link below.

Claire Bigbee – Complete Collection

 

A Wandering Artist – Insights from Artist Claire Bigbee

Posted on by Maine Art

This spring, artist Claire Bigbee traveled to mid-coast Maine and brought back a great deal of inspiration from the beautiful coasts of Camden, Rockport, and Monhegan Island.

“The Maine landscape inspires me as an artist. It has a wealth of inspiration to draw from. There is an inherent attraction within nature, which is what I aim to achieve in my work,” shares Bigbee. “The challenge in using landscape as my subject matter forces me to simplify what I see into forms, shapes, value of patterns, and texture. The brushwork expresses my emotional response to the view and how it makes me feel emotionally.”

Playing with scale and color intensifies what Bigbee sees.

“I paint what I want to see, not all the little details in nature, which can distract you and interfere with expression,” says Bigbee. “I am not necessarily ignoring traditional training but choose to break the rules and let the development of the painting lead me in one direction or another.”

 The ability to simplify means eliminating the unnecessary so the necessary can speak. ~ Hans Hoffman

This show is a must-see for locals and out-of-town visitors from September 2 to 27. Every day from 10 AM to 6 PM at the Gallery at the Grand at 1 Chase Hill Rd in Kennebunk. If you can’t visit the gallery,  see the show virtually at www.maine-art.com/shows. FMI 207-967-2803.

Click for the  VIRTUAL TOUR 

To read more about this talented woman, click the link below.

Claire Bigbee – Artist Insights

To see our present collection from this artist, click the link below.

Claire Bigbee – Complete Collection

New Dawn – Artist Insights from Claire Bigbee

Posted on by Maine Art

“The charm of fishing is that it is the pursuit of something elusive but attainable, a perpetual series of occasions for hope.” – John Bucha.

New Dawn is from an early morning at Square Pond in Shapleigh, Maine.

“I woke up in amazement as this image spread before me,” shares artist Claire Bigbee. “The light was blinding, the trees in silhouette, and the stillness of the lake was a contrast to what’s been going on in my personal life.”

The idea of fishing is such a calming experience. It’s not so much the fish the fishermen are after but the quiet and stillness.

“It is a perfect metaphor for me and a decisive moment to hold onto,” says Bigbee. “I am learning that inevitable failures teach persistence and patience.”

This show is a must-see for locals and out-of-town visitors from September 2 to 27. Every day from 10 AM to 6 PM at the Gallery at the Grand at 1 Chase Hill Rd in Kennebunk. If you can’t visit the gallery,  see the show virtually at www.maine-art.com/shows. FMI 207-967-2803.

Click for the  VIRTUAL TOUR 

To read more about this talented woman, click the link below.

Claire Bigbee – Artist Insights

To see our present collection from this artist, click the link below.

Claire Bigbee – Complete Collection

Pop-Up with Van Tassell Art

Posted on by Maine Art

Featured Pop-Up Artists

 Van Tassell Art

September 14 – 27

14 Western Ave, Kennebunk, Maine

Open 10 AM Everyday

This is a family quartet of artists: mother, father, daughter, and daughter-in-law. Visit this excellent show full of Maine-inspired work and enlightened creativity. Open at 14 Western Ave. Kennebunk, Maine. August 31 – September 14.

Jan Van Tassell

Immersing in nature has taught me its ever-varied personality and realistic countenances. I often use watercolor to convey atmospheric perspectives and natural accuracies visually. This profound respect and love of the woods, rivers, and ocean are palpable. Viewers can simultaneously appreciate distinct dispositions and recognizable natural elements. 


Jan received his Bachelor of Fine Arts degree at Syracuse University in New York and his Masters in Art and Education from The University of Southern Maine. He has continued to refine his skills through many workshops and courses in both Maine and Florida. After many years working, teaching, and painting in Florida, Jan moved back to Maine, where he continues to pursue the arts alongside his wife, Linda.

Linda Van Tassell

Maine’s ever-changing seasons and weather produce a variety of visual and emotional moods. I aim to capture the breadth of these oscillations with a medium that is just as transformative: watercolor. Surrounded by water and beautiful scenes in my daily life, I strive to create works equally informed by fervid interpretations and natural realities. 

Linda received her Bachelor of Science at Skidmore College in New York and her Masters in Art and Education from Syracuse University in New York. Ever looking to expand her skills and knowledge of various mediums, Linda has continued her studies at universities in both Florida and Maine. After many years submerged in and as a strong, leading figure in the Florida art scene, Linda moved back to Maine, where she continues to pursue the arts alongside her husband, Jan.

Katrina (Van Tassell) Bull

Katrina has enjoyed art and creating art since childhood, surrounded by generations who express their joy in the world around them in art. Her natural ability has been refined through experience with many mediums and excellent instruction.   She received a degree in fine arts from the University of Southern Maine with a major in ceramics. She dabbled in several mediums: sculpture, pottery, oil, acrylic painting, Ebru dye, enamel on glass, and her favorite watercolor.

She has exhibited her work in a solo show at the university and several annual shows at Port Resources in Portland, Maine. Her glass painting, watercolor, silk dyes, pottery, and acrylic workshops have been well received.

Nancy Gareau Van Tassell

For as long as I can remember, I’ve been carrying art supplies and producing art from the myriad of materials I’ve found around my house and out in nature. I’ve been known to brave a herd of unruly cows while painting a stream in the meadow. I’m not afraid to be adventurous to discover the perfect image to paint.

I’ve taken numerous classes/courses through York County Community College, Maine College of Art, and Heartwood College. I have also taken classes with artists I admire, Anne Abgott and Russel Whitten. Sue Roux and Heather Lewis.

I enjoy working with any medium or material that inspires and allows me to express my creativity. I’ve used metals, charcoal, acrylic, oil, and watercolor, my personal favorite.

Healing with Paint – Artist Insights from Claire Bigbee

Posted on by Maine Art

For artist Claire Bigbee, this show feels different. Preparing for this was difficult because of the last six months of chaos from a difficult divorce, which cost her working time. But the compression of time and impact of emotions poured into the paintings, giving them a distinct energy that feels raw and explosive.

“The Salmon Fall River series are scribblings using mixed mediums and oil sticks. I released a lot of impact from the last six months. I was pretty exhausted but happy with the results,” shares Bigbee. “The reflections in the water of the sky and trees, I have spent a lot of time reflecting on my thirty years of marriage and allowing the anger and betrayal to come back and the hurt and disappointments.”

This part of the river flows into a wider area where it slows down and is more peaceful from the rushing falls before it is near her studio. Visiting it to paint this series taught her some lessons to appreciate where she is and how far she has come.

Bigbee also found healing at a little spot on the water, Square Pond in Shapleigh, Maine.

“I am in a better place,” says Bigbee,  “My painting became part of my healing.”

This show is a must-see for locals and out-of-town visitors from September 2 to 27. Every day from 10 AM to 6 PM at the Gallery at the Grand at 1 Chase Hill Rd in Kennebunk. If you can’t visit the gallery,  see the show virtually at www.maine-art.com/shows. FMI 207-967-2803.

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Click for the  VIRTUAL TOUR 

To read more about this talented woman, click the link below.

Claire Bigbee – Artist Insights

To see our present collection from this artist, click the link below.

Claire Bigbee – Complete Collection

Pop-Up with Heather Fountain, Angelique Luro, and Amalia Tagaris

Posted on by Maine Art

Featured Pop-Up Artists

Heather Fountain, Angelique Luro, and Amalia Tagaris

September 9 – 28

 5 Chase Hill Rd, Kennebunk

Open 10 AM Everyday

These three female artists are coming together to celebrate the fall with Maine Art Hill. A trio that compliments but does not compete is a beautiful blend of color, texture, and light.

Heather Fountain

Dr. Heather L. R. Fountain, the creator of Fountain Glass, has shown her work nationally and internationally. She utilizes various kiln-formed glass techniques that help her achieve extensive and varied works ranging from jewelry to sculptural pieces. Much of her work is inspired by the ocean, lakes, and forests of Maine, where she has always found peace amid the beauty of nature.

Angelique Luro

A common thread running throughout most of my career and education was creativity. Every time I was able to be creative, I was happy. Without creativity, I became miserable. Over the years, I have had several by-chance encounters with artists. Each time, I would feel a rush of excitement in my heart. I ignored it because being an artist seemed unattainable, I didn’t have an art education, and I honestly felt intimidated by “art speak.”

Every piece of art that I create teaches me something. I like to think of it as an exploration. The inspiration for my work is simple: nature and all she encompasses. My curiosities are vast. I approach painting playfully with a good sense of humor, which I need when things go down the tubes.

I aspire for my work to become a meaningful and joyful piece of your story.

Amalia Tagaris

I am a Boston-based artist trained in professional photography at the New England School of Photography. I am self-taught in encaustic (beeswax + damar resin + colored pigments) and mixed media art.

My introduction to painting with encaustic was in 2009 when I began the application of the encaustic medium to my photographs to produce works with luminous, textural qualities. Today, I continue the exploration of the medium by incorporating oil paint, inks, carbon prints, and various other mixed media in my paintings. In addition, I use a variety of fine art paper to create unique and lively encaustic monotypes.

A true New Englander with European roots and traditions, my perspective is enriched by the marriage of both worlds. My subject matter is highly intuitive, informed by past experiences and my current state of mind and place.   I oscillate between urban and natural landscapes and abstract compositions and sometimes enjoy investigating unassociated subjects such as colorful koi fish and bold, floral compositions.

The versatility of this ancient medium allows it to adopt various materials within its skin to reveal an entirely new meaning. It also allows me to infuse bold, luscious colors and textures onto what would otherwise be a flat surface. The tactile property of the wax demands physical interaction during scraping, incising, and smoothening of its surface, layer after layer.

There is a push and pull between spontaneous and intentional compositions as the molten wax becomes malleable when a heat source is reintroduced to bind its newly applied strokes to the existing ones.

Quite often, something extraordinary arises from these unplanned happenings, which makes working with encaustic very appealing in expressing my visual narrative.

 

 

 

Pop-Up with Robin Swennes & Phil Ouellette

Posted on by Maine Art

Featured Pop-Up Artists

Robin Swennes and Phil Ouellette

AUGUST 31 – SEPTEMBER 13

14 Western Ave, Kennebunk, Maine

Artist Reception Saturday, September 9, from 4–6 PM

Open 10 AM Everyday

 

 

This is a  local husband and wife duo that can’t be missed. This is their first combination pop-up with Maine Art Hill. Painter Robin Swennes has popped here multiple times and always delights visitors with color and subject that celebrates Maine. This year, her paintings are complimented with the sculpture from her husband.

Robin Swennes

Robin knew at a young age that art, sparkly things, and bright colors were for her, but it took until her 40s to realize that artistic endeavors feed her soul. Without an excellent creative project, she looks for that brain exercise and relishes artistic creation’s satisfaction. Somewhere between dressing up in all of Grandma’s jewelry and doodling with chalk on her neighborhood streets, she progressed to painting. Her employment as a graphic designer for advertising companies taught her the ins and outs of color correcting, image editing, and preparing digital pictures for print or web use. However, her illustration and painting skills are self-taught and are constantly progressing. Her style tips between realism and impressionism, with close-ups or simple compositions, giving just enough detail to reveal her subject and allow color combinations to ‘zing.’

“I squeeze the paint straight from tube to brush, getting the most color possible and minimizing waste. I don’t set up a palette; I mix on the canvas and let my gut tell me the next color. I use no water to spread the paint so the colors maintain intensity. I coveted that big Crayola 64 crayon box with an integrated sharpener as a kid. Somewhere in my psyche, I’m probably trying to make up for never having had it, so the number of paint tubes I have is staggering because I always want another color.”

Phil Ouellette

“Creation is personal. Going public is terrifying. Allowing others to see the “cool” of the creation and desire a piece must be euphoric, unforgettable, but, again, terrifying. I lean towards rust, debris, and the unwanted, and when they all collaborate, the outcome is a piece that stands on its own.”

AUGUST 31 – SEPTEMBER 14

14 Western Ave, Kennebunk, Maine

Artist Reception Saturday, September 9, from 4–6 PM

Open 10 AM Everyday

 

How It Happens – Artist Insights from Janis Sanders

Posted on by Maine Art

“The painting experience is a process in its truest and simplest sense. In this case, give, assess, and give again,” says artist Janis Sanders. ” In some instances, nearly simultaneously, an action of small gestures, each often unintentionally, perhaps subconsciously or instinctually, setting the stage for the next gesture, stage, step, or action.”

For Sanders, painting is an activity of spontaneous concentration, feedback at its finest, with split-second fraction instinctive decision-making and stop-on-a-dime attentiveness contrasted and integrated with full-force steaming ahead paint application in large swaths of full tilt ahead.

“Sometimes, painting is the tiniest, thinnest streak or dot of the correct color of paint that completes a painting. Emotion is the finishing touch that finalizes and completes my visual symphony of colors,” says Sanders. “The excitement of the interaction of colors and relationships forming in front of my eyes as the painting develops is the driver and the reins that allow steerage. All this is in a process that largely drives itself as it comes through. I am largely, and  often simply, an instrument of the formulation.”

The show opened on Saturday, August 19, at 10 AM at Maine Art Hill at 5 Chase Hill Road in Kennebunk. This show runs for almost a month, ending September 6. All are welcome.

Click to see the VIRTUAL TOUR.

 

 ARTIST INSIGHTS – Janis H. Sanders.

 ALL AVAILABLE WORKS – Janis H. Sanders

Composition, Mood, Idea, Palette, and Perspective – Artist Insights from Michele Poirier Mozzone

Posted on by Maine Art

For artist Michele Poirier Mozzone, the window of opportunity to capture sun-filled pool photos here in New England is limited. Having models at the ready when the weather cooperates can also be challenging. She takes videos from her GoPro camera when she has models, sunlight, and a warm summer day. From them, she can select images that have the potential to be paintings and manipulate them to her liking on the Procreate app.

“My work begins with many conscious decisions in hopes of achieving a plan – a composition, a mood, an idea, a palette, a perspective that makes an interesting, successful painting,” shares Mozzone. “If I have done a good job with preparation, the painting portion is often free-flowing, where I am in a zone free of constraints and open to exploration within the parameters of my original plan.”

Her studio is a light-filled converted bedroom in her home. Afternoon in the studio is her productive time. However, she has been known to head to the studio in her pajamas with a cup of coffee in the morning and not emerge until after five o’clock – still wearing pajamas and completely satisfied after a full, productive day. Time passes quickly while painting.

“I am grateful that this subject matter, which I have been exploring for the past twelve years, also resonates with many people,” she shares. “It has been immensely gratifying to get feedback from someone who sees themself as a child and relives happy summer memories through my work.”

People have expressed their love of the water, their passion for swimming, or their children’s likeness has drawn them to Mozzone’s paintings. It feeds an artist’s soul to get this feedback, and it probably has kept her on this series when she might have otherwise drifted to something else.

“Thankfully, I have not tired of exploring variations on this theme. I have introduced new elements over time, such as drapery, flowers, and stencils,” explains Mozzone. “When creating a new painting begins to feel like a formula for what has been successful, it is time to try something new.”

When her painting practice starts to feel stale, the work reflects this. So, she keeps evolving within this series to remain excited about the next painting. Beyond the apparent concepts of capturing the transient nature of water, its transformative effects, and the simplicity of summer fun and freedom, other internal themes have repeated throughout this series, depending on the painting.

“Body image, relationships, female empowerment, moments of meditation and renewal, self-reflection, and finding inner peace are all internal themes I reach for,” says Mozzone.

Mozzone’s show opened on Saturday, August 19, at Maine Art Hill at 5 Chase Hill Road in Kennebunk, ending on September 6. We are open every day at 10 AM. All are welcome.

Click to see the PREVIEW on August 16

Click to see the VIRTUAL TOUR on  August 18

 

 ARTIST INSIGHTS  – Michele Poirier Mozzone.

ALL AVAILABLE WORKS –Michele Poirier Mozzone.