I want to talk a little about art. Specifically about buying art.
In a recession, it is difficult to imagine consumers spending money on something they don’t really need. However, I would argue that everyone needs a little beauty and creativity in their lives. Those who spend the big bucks on art are still buying and those of us who don’t have big bucks can find other places to buy more reasonably priced art. Many Maine organizations have art shows that benefit both the artist and the organization.

Just think of all the good you can do when you purchase an original piece of art from one of these organizations. First, you support the artist. Second, you support the creative economy of Maine. Third, you support the organization. Fourth, you give the viewers a never ending gift. Finally, you are making an investment. Sure, the piece you purchase at the local art auction may not be a Picasso, but who knows what greatness is in each artist’s future.

A piece of art  comforts us, touches our emotional core, challenges our aesthetic. Art communicates visually. When we buy art, we validate this type of communication and the people who create. We tell those around us (especially children) that art is an important  part of living and being human. Art inspires us to create more beauty in the world. That is something we all need.

Here are some art shows I’d like you to know about. I’ll have pieces in three of the shows.

1. The New England School of Metalwork is having an art show and fundraiser. The online silent auction is going on now. You can also view the pieces in person at The Center for Maine Craft: located at the West Gardiner Service Plaza and accessible via Route 126, I-95 South (Exit 103), I-95 North (Exit 102) or I-295 (Exit 51). (No, I don’t do metalwork but my dad does so I have a soft spot- molten iron?- in my heart for blacksmiths.)
   
2. The Maine Illustrators’ Collective will be showing pieces at the Freeport Library for the show "The Classics Reimagined- Maine Illustrators Revisits Your Favorite Stories!" The exhibit goes up November 2nd. Watch this space for more info about the exhibit opening.
   
3. The Maine Farmland Trust is having an art show and auction. All the pieces will depict some aspect of "Harvest." Come to the opening on October 23rd from 5-7pm. The gallery is at 97 Main Street in Belfast and will be up through the 10th Anniversary Celebration and Auction on Novemeber 16th.
4. The First Yarmouth Art Festival is happening next weekend October 15-17 at St. Bartholomew’s Episcopal church. The opening will be from 6-9pm on Thursday, the 15th. Click the above link for the online exhibit catalog which is being posted this weekend.