Artists tell us who we are as a people. They reflect our spirit and define our soul. Maine is very unique, we are not like anywhere else. As governor, I identified and supported our creative economy, which linked this talent to our economic engine. Maine has world-renowned writers, photographers, painters, poets, builders, basket makers and many, many more. We have a storied history, amazing present-day craft artists and an unfolding future of people coming to Maine to create.
Personally, we try to seek out and support our Maine artists. We celebrate holidays, anniversaries, birthdays and sometimes simply support what inspires us.
Our family holiday card comes to mind. The holidays have always been a time for us to share a family photo, taken by professional Maine photographers, to connect with family and friends. It was a way to follow us — especially Jack, as he grew up throughout the years.
In our Blaine House years, in addition to the annual photo, we added original holiday commemoratives made by Mainers to celebrate the season. These included many different designs, creations, artwork and unique gifts. We showcased Maine artists and craftsmen at our two Inaugurals, many trade missions, meetings, retreats and Maine Day at The Big E Agricultural Fair.
I encourage everyone to shop locally. Invest in Maine artists and craftsmen.
Governor John E. Baldacci served two terms as the governor of the State of Maine from 2003 to 2011. Prior public service included serving as U.S. Representative for Maine’s 2nd Congressional District from 1995-2003. Governor Baldacci joined Pierce Atwood in 2012, following an appointment as the Director of the Department of Defense’s Military Health Care Reform Initiative, working for the former Under Secretary of Defense for Personnel and Readiness, Clifford L. Stanley, where he was tasked with a full-scale review and evaluation of military health care and wellness.
What Maine Craft Means to Me Essay Series invites you to explore the many intersections and layers of craft, people and time in Maine through the words of those with deep connections to our state and our field. Each week, a new essay will be shared.
The Deer Isle Artists Association announces the opening of its show titled “Colorful Composing,” on view from July14–26. The vibrant works in this show convey the emotive power and beauty of color through the mediums of painting, printmaking, ceramics, photography, and woodwork. Featured artists in this show are Marianne Alweis, Sarah Baskin, Betsy Braunhut, Katherine […]
Local Color Gallery is pleased to welcome guest artist Sally Stanton from July 21 through August 23. She will talk about her work at the July Art Walk reception on Friday, July 24th, 4-7 pm. Stanton will speak at 5:30. Stanton says that her abstract figurative work is a departure from the non-representational paintings she […]
As Sylvan Gallery celebrates its 25th anniversary season, it is pleased to present Exploring Light: New Paintings by Paul Batch on view July 18 through August 15. This new collection celebrates Batch’s enduring fascination with light and atmosphere across the Maine landscape, expressed through his distinctive blend of observation, memory, and painterly interpretation. Visitors will […]
‘Imagining an Archipelago’ features six newly commissioned works and includes contributions by more than 40 artists connected to Cuba, Guam, the Philippines and Puerto Rico Waterville, Maine — Contemporary art brings together histories separated by oceans and generations in “Imagining an Archipelago: Art from Cuba, Guam, the Philippines, Puerto Rico, and Their Diasporas.” The exhibition, […]
Courthouse Gallery Fine Art in Ellsworth presents an opening reception Wednesday July 22, from 5 to 7, for “William Irvine: Heading Home,” and “Ragna Bruno: Boundless.” William Irvine: Heading Home At ninety-five William Irvine continues to surprise viewers with something new like the tender embrace of Lovers by the Sea (30 x 40 inches), The Rough Sea (30 […]
Fridays, June 5 – September 25 | 9 AM–1 PM Waterfall Arts has kicked off the 14th season of its Summer Art Market, a beloved community tradition showcasing a rotating cast of talented Maine artists and makers every Friday throughout the summer. The market takes place from 9 AM–1 PM on the lawn at […]
Now in its 49th season, the Guild Fine Craft Show – produced by Shop Maine Craft – returns to College of the Atlantic with a dynamic indoor/outdoor event in downtown Bar Harbor, August 7 – 9. The show features a juried selection of fine handcrafted work by Guild level members of the Maine Crafts Association, […]
Shaw Contemporary Jewelry in Northeast Harbor is hosting its famous Every-other-Thursday night opening with four exceptional artists, from 5 to 7 p.m. on July 16. It is an opportunity to meet all four artists Dell Fox is a student of ancient cultures, She is inspired by Greek and Roman jewelry and the attendant ancient techniques. Her […]
The Ogunquit Art Association will hold its 72nd Annual Art Auction on Saturday, August 1, 2026, at Barn Gallery, continuing a tradition that stretches back for many decades and remains the largest annual art auction in Ogunquit. Collectors and art enthusiasts from across the Eastern Seaboard travel to Ogunquit each summer for this event, where […]
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