‘Maine Inspired: Art Luminaries at the Bicentennial’ on exhibit at Zillman Art Museum

Throughout history, artists have been attracted to Maine for its striking landscape, quiet remoteness and resilient people. As we celebrate Maine’s Bicentennial in 2020 and the state’s rich artistic history, the Zillman Art Museum showcases artists who have not only contributed to the cultural fabric of Maine but whose works of art are lauded internationally.

“Maine Inspired: Art Luminaries at the Bicentennial” runs Aug. 4 through Dec. 23 and features an assortment of works from the ZAM collection, including two of Winslow Homer’s finest prints, “Eight Bells” and “Perils of the Sea.” John Marin, whose studio in Maine was on a picturesque point in Addison, is represented by two dynamic watercolors, “A Bit of Cape Split, Maine” and “A Bit of Stonington, Maine” — as well as a suite of etchings that attests to his skill in both representation and abstraction.

One of Maine’s most prominent artists, Andrew Wyeth is featured in two lovely watercolors gifted in 1948 by Bangor’s Wing Sisters, Adeline and Caroline. The exhibition also highlights three images by Berenice Abbott, one of photography’s greatest practitioners, who relocated permanently from New York City to Blanchard in the 1960s. Also included are contemporary works by Alex Katz, including “Ann Lauterbach” and “Swimmer” — two pieces that illustrate his distinctive, pared-down approach to portraiture.

The Zillman Art Museum, located at 40 Harlow St., Bangor, is open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday. ZAM’s summer/fall shows open to the public on Aug. 4 and run through Dec. 23. Admission to the Zillman Art Museum is free in 2020, thanks to the generosity of Deighan Wealth Advisors.