This exhibition brings together 12 highly regarded contemporary Maine artists whose work expresses a profound appreciation, and deep concern, for Maine’s lakes, rivers, and ocean. As attentive observers, these artists serve as valuable witnesses to environmental change. 

"Water Proof" closes Aug. 22 at 4pm.

Several of them use thoughtfully selected natural materials, while others repurpose found objects that might otherwise enter the waste stream. Some have served as resident artists aboard research vessels or worked closely with scientific organizations, and all of them channel their own experiences with Maine’s waters.

Together, these artists and their work spark a conversation about the fragility of our planet and ourselves that the Wendell Gilley Museum invites you to join.

Exhibiting artists are:

• Elizabeth Awalt
• Krisanne Baker
• Daisy Braun
• Michel Droge
• Sarah Haskell
• Alison Hildreth
• Jeannet Leendertse
• Nancy Manter
• Posey Moulton
• Anne Neely
• Celeste Roberge
• Ian Trask

Paint a special birch forest, customized to your taste, in this fun Family Paint ‘n’ Sip. Artist Erika Elizabeth will guide students through a step-by-step process. All materials are provided along with seltzer, lemonade, and snacks. This family-friendly paint ‘n’ sip is suitable for all experience levels, and those age 6 and older. Space is limited, and preregistration is required. Children must be accompanied by an adult.

Throughout his life, Sean Murtha’s interest in science and nature never waned, even as he pursued a degree in art. In fact, science and nature usually formed the basis for his artwork. In 1995, five years after he earned an MFA in painting from Pratt Institute in Brooklyn, N.Y., he found the perfect marriage of art and natural science when he began working for the American Museum of Natural History in New York City. There he learned the art of diorama background painting, a rare skill he continues to use at museums to this day. 

The Wendell Gilley Museum welcomes him on Tuesday, Aug. 18 as the People-Nature-Art presenter for the month. There will be an in-person artist’s reception at 6 p.m. at the Gilley, followed by a presentation at 7 p.m. that will happen in person, and livecast online simultaneously. Admission is free but registration is required. 

This exhibition, which opens Tuesday, Aug. 25,  celebrates the traditional relief printmaking of Maine artist Siri Beckman. Though she also paints in watercolors and oils, she is best known for wood engravings and woodcuts—carving images into carefully selected wood blocks using specialized tools before proofing, refining and printing each edition by hand. A single small block can take dozens of hours to complete, from the first cuts to the final signed print. This show includes 41 of her prints featuring birds and landscapes and explores Siri's deep engagement with this process.