turtle

The Turtle Gallery is showcasing a remarkable collection of jewelry by Ellen Windemuth, the filmmaker and founder of WaterBear Network. Her pieces are more than just accessories; they are reminders of the sophistication, art and refinement of ancient cultures.

The necklaces feature beads and intaglio artifacts that traveled the historic Silk Road thousands of years ago. The makers of these beads experienced terrible wars, awful leaders and violent times. But there must have been something incredibly peaceful about sitting down, working on something beautiful and sharing it with others.

This enduring aspect of the human condition is beautifully echoed in the work of Chris Joyce. A self-taught wood turner and Deer Isle native, Joyce finds his medium in wood sourced from his own backyard and across the globe. His finely crafted artifacts invite appreciation for their exquisite craftsmanship, intricate designs, and the rich history embedded within each piece of wood.

The pairing of Windemuth’s ancient artifacts with Joyce’s contemporary art pieces creates a compelling dialogue. Both artists share a dedication to transforming found and raw materials into objects of profound beauty, reflecting a continuous human desire to create, refine, and connect through art. It’s a wonderful testament to how art can bridge the ages and bring ancient stories into the present.

Turtle Gallery resides in an 1876 two-story barn and outdoor sculpture garden located at 61 N. Deer Isle Road in Deer Isle. Hours are 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Thursday through Sunday from through Oct. 7. For more information, visit turtlegallery.com, or call 207-348-9977.