Joanne Parent

Maine: I moved to Camden when I was eight years old, when my father took a job as a darkroom technician with the Camden Herald. I grew up in Waldo County, not far from Camden Harbor, and my horse stable was in Searsmont. Maine was always my home base, even during years of international travel.

Inspiration: The ocean, sky, nature, travel, people, and new adventures. 

Medium: I have moved to oil from pastels, as I can get that same ethereal, dreamlike feeling with oils, and have fewer issues with framing and shipping. I fell in love with the movement and color I can get with the paint. 

Artist Hero: I have many, but it was my father, Maine photographer Neal Parent, who taught me to draw. He was a painter before he picked up a camera.

Where in Maine: When I moved back to Maine after leaving Polynesia and sailing, I decided that I wanted to raise my kids in the midcoast area, and specifically in Belfast. I believe this is one of the most artistic communities in the state. It is filled with amazing artists of all types, with more and more moving here every day. I love the working community feeling in Belfast, and it’s not as much of a tourist destination as neighboring towns. 

Fun Fact: I am an avid sailor, traveler and adventure-seeker.

Education: I have studied in the Caribbean, in England, at the Maine College of Art in Portland, and received private instruction during my travels.