In the picturesque coastal town of Ogunquit, Maine, a new group of artists has organized to participate in the vibrant activity of the Ogunquit Art Colony scene. The formation of the “Ogunquit River Painters” heralds an additional wave of creativity joining the deep ranks of accomplished artists who have long been drawn to this idyllic enclave.
Since the late 1800s, Ogunquit has been a haven for artists seeking inspiration amidst its breathtaking vistas and unique charm. From the early days when Charles H. Woodbury first set up his easel to capture the essence of this coastal paradise, to the bustling art scene that continues to thrive today, Ogunquit has long-remained a beacon for creative souls.
Continue reading below for additional important information about the Ogunquit River Painters PLUS details on their upcoming inaugural group show at Cliff House…
Let’s Set The Scene: Ogunquit Art Colony
Here are just a few of the major visual arts entities / events in Ogunquit, Maine.
Ogunquit Art Association / Barn Gallery: Central to this artistic tapestry is the Ogunquit Art Association (OAA), Maine’s original artists’ group, which has been at the forefront of promoting and showcasing the finest works of local talent since its inception in 1928. Through vibrant exhibitions, engaging gallery talks, and enlightening workshops hosted at the Barn Gallery, juried members of the OAA continue to carry forward the tradition of excellence established by their predecessors.
Ogunquit Museum of American Art: Another cornerstone of Ogunquit’s artistic landscape is the Ogunquit Museum of American Art (OMAA), founded by Lost Generation artist Henry Strater in 1953. Nestled just a short walk from Perkins Cove, the museum boasts a permanent collection of significant paintings, sculpture, and other artworks that span from the late 1800s to the present day. With its scenic sculpture gardens overlooking Narrow Cove and the Atlantic Ocean, the OMAA stands as a testament to Ogunquit’s enduring allure for artists and art enthusiasts alike.
Ogunquit Art Colony | ogunquitartcolony.org: This Facebook group (organized by artist Eric J Taubert / Taubert Gallery) was created for members to share visual art and photography created in, inspired by, or depicting Ogunquit, Maine. Ogunquit Art Association / Barn Gallery juried members are also invited to share their work. This is also a place to share Ogunquit art news and events – as well as to share and/or be exposed to works of art from the earliest days of the Ogunquit Art Colony.
Annual Perkins Cove Plein Air Painting Event: At the annual Perkins Cove Plein Air Event, you’ll be able to enjoy the timeless sight of plein air painters in the act of putting brush to canvas in (and around) Perkins Cove — the heart of the Ogunquit Art Colony. The birthplace of the storied Ogunquit Art Colony now also serves as the beating heart of one of Maine’s most important cultural happenings: Ogunquit’s Perkins Cove Plein Air Art Event.
Todd Bonita Art Gallery, Perkins Cove: We have a serious soft spot for this stellar fine art gallery located in Perkins Cove in Ogunquit, Maine, in the heart of one of Americas oldest art colonies. The gallery is located directly across from the iconic drawbridge in the space that was occupied by long time resident, George Carpenter Gallery.
Introducing: Ogunquit River Painters
Amidst this high-density backdrop of artistic heritage, the emergence of the Ogunquit River Painters represents a continuation and strenthening of the Ogunquit’s rich legacy of creativity. Led by seasoned artists Claire Bigbee, Ric Della Bernarda, Paul Noel, and Doug Taylor, this new collective is dedicated to establishing a community whose work reflects the timeless tradition and styles of those painters who first flocked to Ogunquit over a century ago.
“We not only need to celebrate this rich artistic history, but we have a responsibility to do what we can to continue to bring new art enthusiasts to the area by attracting, encouraging, and supporting artists of all types,” remarks Claire Bigbee, speaking on behalf of the Ogunquit River Painters.
Ogunquit River Painters intends to partner with Ogunquit town management, local businesses, and existing art establishments, to promote other local artists who keep those forebears’ traditions alive, thereby continuing to strengthen the town’s artistic heritage and attract new artists to Ogunquit.
Ogunquit River Painters plans to work with the town of Ogunquit to initiate new programs to attract artists and art businesses to the town. These future proposals include a parking program for artists to visit and paint for the day, incentives for art galleries to come to Ogunquit, and more art events in town to benefit businesses and attract tourists with an interest in art. In addition, Ogunquit River Painters would like to work with the Ogunquit Museum of American Art to continue Henry Strater’s original vision for art “of Ogunquit.”
The Ogunquit River Painters, joined by guest artists Janis Sanders, Annie Stone, and Markus Sebastiani, will unveil their inaugural group show on Friday, February 16th, from 4 to 7 p.m. at the Cliff House Maine, located at 591 Shore Road, Cape Neddick, ME. Members of the public are invited to meet the artists and immerse themselves in the beauty of their works.
For artists interested in joining the Ogunquit River Painters or learning more about the group, contact ogunquitriverpainters@gmail.com.
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