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Last evening was the opening of Exchanging Views: The Artists of Katahdin Paint Vinalhaven at the New Era Gallery on Vinalhaven Island. A month ago twelve artists represented by North Light Gallery  (Millinocket, Maine) including owner Marsha Donahue were invited by New Era Gallery owner Elaine Crossman to come paint the island. There are parallels to be drawn when comparing the Katahdin area to Vinalhaven. Yes they are both small towns but it goes deeper for artists. There is something of a kinship in the atmosphere. The light is bright, clear and somehow prismatic. It must have something to do with elevation in the Katahdin area and the reflective quality of all the water around the island of Vinalhaven. Both areas are of lands and waters that withstand extreme weather conditions resulting in a rugged beauty that all can appreciate. For me personally these are the subjects that resonate with me deeply as an artist. Artists John and Pam Reddick, Candice McKellar and I were able to represent our group of twelve at the opening last night. Elaine arranged for an artists talk a half hour before the opening which gave us a chance to speak of our experience of painting the island and field questions from the audience. It was very well attended and the patrons asked great questions which helped keep the discussion flowing. I had a very good evening personally as three of my paintings were sold! Several other artists sold works also and the show will hang until July 16th. 

I love the rocks, trees and water. Maine granite runs deep and solid in our state. Vinalhaven has many old quarries which exported the quality granite to projects in New York, Washington DC, Boston and others. Now the quarries have filled with groundwater and two are maintained by the town for swimming. The spruce trees stand rich and dark against the elements, contrasting so beautifully with the blue water. These photos are a poor substitute for such a place. 

This is a picture of Lawson's Quarry. My husband and I took a couple of old bikes available at the Tidewater Motel where we were staying and rode out to Lawson's Quarry this morning. Steve went swimming while I worked on a small watercolor sketch. Not a good photo as the colors are off to the warm side a bit but here it is anyway. 

quarry swimmers

Just one more image. The harbor at 5:30am today. I'm smitten. 

Tonight I am feeling grateful. Grateful to have two gallery owners who collaborated and put this show together. Grateful to live in Maine and to be able to do this job which I truly do love.