Silvery Summer Light on the Isles of Shoals – Artist Insights from Claire Bigbee

“The community of people I met from all over the world was an unexpected surprise. I left with five paintings and a feeling of solitude, nourishment, and peace,” smiles Bigbee.  “I will go back again and again to paint the magic of Star Island and the Shoals. And, of course, watch the breathtaking sunrises and sunsets in a comfy rocking chair.”

The Beach – Insights from Ellen Welch Granter

“These enormous and heavy snail shells, called moon snails, collect in specific places on the beach. I love their sun-bleached exteriors juxtaposed with their deep, darkly colored interiors,” shares Granter. “However, be careful picking them up. Hermit crabs also love to make their homes inside.”

There are Two Sides to Every Story – Claire Bigbee and Ingunn Joergensen

“Both Joergensen and Bigbee joined the gallery at the same time. They live locally and share a common love of Maine,” says gallery owner John Spain. “Over time, not only have they grown as artists, they have grown into friends. It is not uncommon for Bigbee and Joergensen to travel to remote locations for an artist retreat. They often share ideas and inspiration as they paint side by side, seeing the same landscape, each painting their vision.”

Not Always and Artist – Insights from Ellen Welch Granter

Over the years, Granter’s need for change continues throughout her career as an artist. She explores from the love of her bird to turning an ordinary buoy into a work of art. She shares her childhood hatred of being on the water but the love being near it with each piece she creates, no matter the subject.

Oil, Acrylic, and Wax. Oh My! – Artist Insights from Maine Art Hill

No matter the medium, there is something for everyone. First, enjoy Liz Hoag’s acrylics as you walk through her woods. Next, celebrate using wax and a blow torch with Kathy Ostrander Roberts’s encaustics. Finally, relax and breathe deep with Jill Matthews and her ethereal oils.

Bethany Harper Williams – Three Views of Maine

“I have always been captivated by lobster boats, and lobster boats are ubiquitous in Maine, providing me with lots of inspiration. There is a charm to the shapes and bright colors that give each boat a unique personality. I should call these collages portraits as I’m trying to portray the character of the individual boats.”