LOCAL COLOR Late Fall Glow by Lindsay Hopkins Weld
“Late Fall Glow” by Lindsay Hopkins-Weld.

Local Color Gallery in Belfast is pleased to announce “Coastal Reflections,” a guest exhibition featuring the oil paintings of Maine-based maritime painter Lindsay Hopkins-Weld. The show opens on Aug. 19 and runs through Sept. 21. At the same time, the gallery welcomes “Lab Art” by new year-round member Jim Williams of Belfast.

Living near the ocean, Hopkins-Weld draws inspiration from the ever-changing moods of the sea and the relentless cycle of the tides. Her paintings reflect her deep connection to the coastal environment.

“My paintings evolve from observation, persistence, life experience, experimentation and photography,” says Hopkins-Weld. “I strive to depict the essence, beauty, and vibrancy of place and the fleeting moment in time. My approach blends realism with abstraction, focusing on the play of light, color and shape.”

Beginning Aug. 19, Local Color “goes to the dogs” as the gallery debuts the work of Belfast artist Jim Williams. Williams calls his paintings Lab Art for their focus on images of Labrador Retrievers. His boldly colored, minimalist works capture the essence of one of Maine’s most beloved dogs.

LOCAL COLOR Blue Labs by Jim Williams
“Blue Labs” by Jim Williams.

After 22 years working in corporate environments, Williams began taking art courses. His new passion for painting — combined with his love of Labrador Retrievers — led him to open Mainely Labs Studio Gallery in Portland in 2005. For many years, Williams participated in Belfast’s Arts in the Park. He and his wife were drawn to the town and began considering a move. In the fall of 2024, that dream became a reality. Williams is now thrilled to be part of the Belfast artistic community.

“What I create is not just for art’s sake or my own sake, but for others,” says Williams. “I feel great satisfaction when someone values my paintings enough to hang them in their home.”

An opening reception will be held during the Fourth Friday Art Walk from 4 to 7 p.m. Aug. 22 at Local Color Gallery. Both Lindsay Hopkins-Weld and Jim Williams will give short talks beginning at 5:30 p.m.

Local Color Gallery is at 135 High St., Belfast. Hours are 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday and 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday. Learn more at localcolorgallerymaine.com.