Portland Art Gallery

Emma Ballou is a Maine-based artist whose work reflects her appreciation for the beauty of her natural surroundings. Raised in rural Buxton, Emma cultivated her artistic perspective through a family legacy of creativity and formative experiences at the Maine College of Art in Portland. After more than a decade away in Baltimore, Maryland, Washington, DC, and Long Island, New York—attending Goucher College and subsequently working as a historical museum curator—Emma returned to Maine to immerse herself in art and homesteading. Emma now creates her ethereal landscapes in a renovated barn studio, surrounded by the family goats and invigorated by the scents emanating from nearby Milkweed Coffee Roasters, a micro-batch endeavor shared with partner Jennilee Morris. Join our conversation with Portland Art Gallery artist Emma Ballou today on Radio Maine. https://lnkd.in/efcAM5HX

Christopher O'Connor, an artist represented by Portland Art Gallery, recently shared insights into his large-scale painting Coastal Waters No. 70, which he considers one of the most significant pieces of his career. The painting, measuring 64 by 80 inches, took over four months to complete. Christopher describes how the size of the piece allowed him to delve deeper into the abstract elements of his Coastal Waters series, which he’s been developing for over a decade. He was fascinated by how adding more detail to the work paradoxically made it more abstract. As he painted, the lines began to fade, giving way to vibrant colors and forms, creating an immersive experience that took him back to childhood memories of spending hours by the coast. "The adult artist is the child that survived," he reflects, citing a quote that resonates with his process of reconnecting with that sense of wonder and imagination. Christopher’s engagement with the painting was a continuous back-and-forth, where he balanced good and bad moods while facing the challenge of staying emotionally connected to the work. He notes that completing Coastal Waters No. 70 was like "having both a long walk with a friend and a very challenging conversation." Now, as the painting hangs at Portland Art Gallery, he finds himself still deeply connected to it, a rare and satisfying outcome for any artist.

We're excited to share the virtual opening reception for our new exhibition! Join us on YouTube to meet the artists, explore their incredible works, and experience the inspiration behind each piece—all from the comfort of your home. Even better— join us for the in-person opening reception this Thursday, September 5th from 5-7pm at 154 Middle Street in Portland, Maine. https://lnkd.in/d6NqyU26

Our latest exhibit is not to be missed! This month, we invite you to visit the gallery and immerse yourself in the beauty and creativity on display. If you’re unable to join us in person, don’t worry—you can explore the exhibit from anywhere using our virtual walk-through on our website. Additionally, check out the recording we’ve posted on our YouTube page: https://lnkd.in/esyVEiX9

Start your day off with art! Walk through our July 2024 art exhibition with this gallery scan and recording. It's even better in person, so please join us for the opening reception on July 11th! This month's exhibition features Holly L. Smith,?Laurie Fisher,?Bibby Gignilliat,?and Holden Willard. July 2024 Opening Reception July 11th, 5-7 pm 154 Middle St Portland, ME, 04101 https://lnkd.in/eSRx8CwW

Chelsie DiConzo is the Community Events Director for the Yarmouth Clam Festival. ???? Originally from Rumford, a riverfront mill town located in the foothills of western Maine, Chelsie has dedicated herself to showcasing Maine’s cultural landscape. Chelsie drew upon her well-honed skills as a seasoned event organizer when reviving Yarmouth’s beloved tradition after a two-year Covid-imposed hiatus. She and her team successfully overcame many challenges in 2022 as they reinstated Maine’s largest free-admission festival, which welcomes more than 100,000 guests each July. Join our conversation with Chelsie DiConzo today on Radio Maine!

Helen Lewis is deeply rooted in Maine’s artistic community. A native of Ohio, Helen’s passion for Maine spans decades: she has long been drawn to its rugged coastline, serene light, and rich history. She and her family enjoy exploring the state's many treasured spots, including Acadia National Park on Mount Desert Island. Helen’s art, which is particularly influenced by Celtic spirituality and ‘thin places,’ reflects her sense of space by evoking a sense of tranquility and connection to the divine. Join our conversation with Portland Art Gallery artist Helen Lewis today on Radio Maine.

Each month, we upload an interactive 3D scan of our latest exhibition. You can now browse the June exhibition at your own pace on our website, or watch this recording on YouTube. Call our team at 207-956-7105 or email us at [email protected] if a something catches your eye! https://lnkd.in/es237p-8

Exciting news: Our June exhibition is now open! Come explore stunning new collections from Karen Blair, Greg Day, Dietlind Vander Schaaf, and Dale Roberts. Join us for the opening reception on Thursday, June 6th, from 5-7pm. Can't make it in person? No worries! Tune in to our virtual opening reception on YouTube. See you there! https://lnkd.in/ewxkUpqS

Walk through our May exhibition online! You can also stroll through previous exhibitions on YouTube. Subscribe to our channel (@portlandartgallery) so you never miss a show. Portland Art Gallery installs a new collection every month. Opening receptions are held on the first Thursday of every month from 5 - 7 pm. We hope you join us. https://lnkd.in/eCh_CzJC