Lights out

Lights Out presents an artist talk and interview screening with Karen Jelenfy from 4 to 6 p.m. March 10 at The Commons in Belfast, held in conjunction with Jelenfy’s solo exhibition “Horizons.” The evening includes a screening of her 2021 interview “A Strong Dose,” followed by a discussion with Jelenfy, Lights Out creative director Karlë Woods, and the audience. “Lights Out,” dated Feb. 26, frames the event as an opportunity for direct exchange around Jelenfy’s work and process in a shared, conversational setting.

Vendor applications are now closing for the 2026 Norway Maine Arts Festival. Artists, craftspeople, food vendors, and nonprofits may apply for booth space by visiting maineartsfestival.org, with the application deadline set for March 13. The festival will take place Sept. 12 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., bringing together a wide range of creative and community-based work.

“Gone From My Sight” opens March 6 at UNE Art Gallery Portland and runs through June 8, 2026, examining how loss can be witnessed with curiosity and intention while still honoring grief. Maine artists Jacqueline Scott, Rachel Sperry, Fran Vita-Taylor, and Ronnie Wilson, along with poet Hazel Koziol, present work across painting, sculpture, photography, cut-paper drawing, and poetry. Drawing from personal experiences of loss, the exhibition offers reflections on end-of-life compassion and moments of transformation that can emerge in its wake. An opening reception will be held from 5 to 7 p.m. March 6.

Lights Out continues its regular programming with Life Drawing Nights on Monday evenings from 5 to 8 p.m., as the Western Maine Art Group brings its nude figure modeling sessions to Lights Out for the winter months. Sessions are held upstairs in the Dance Studio, with admission set at $12. Long Pose Portraiture takes place Wednesday evenings from 5 to 8 p.m. with Haide Tznous, featuring the same model and pose for six weeks, also held upstairs in the Dance Studio with $12 admission.

Community Day is held Wednesdays from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Lights Out, featuring volunteer projects throughout the day and a free luncheon served at 1 p.m. Community Art Night takes place Sundays from 2 to 5 p.m., inviting participants to create with provided and donated materials in a supportive, low-pressure environment, whether working collaboratively or independently.

“Horizons,” Karen Jelenfy’s solo exhibition, remains on view at the Lights Out satellite gallery in Belfast through March 22. Gallery hours are Tuesday through Friday from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., with weekend visits available by appointment. Inquiries and appointment requests may be directed to karle@lightsoutart.com.

The Maine Arts Commission has partnered with Lights Out to launch Creative Career Lab, a new series of free interactive sessions focused on skill-building for artists and creative entrepreneurs. The program will visit Farmington, Bangor, Presque Isle, Lewiston, Augusta, Damariscotta, Portland, and Biddeford, with one virtual session also planned. Additional details and registration information are available online, along with a full listing of upcoming events on the Lights Out community calendar.

Lights Out Gallery is at 10 Tannery St., Norway. Learn more at www.lightsoutgallery.org.