Monkey Wrench [heavy duty] by Wm. Reeder Fahnestock

Monkey Wrench [Heavy Duty], 30"x10", Oil on board

Description: Life-size portrait of a monkey wrench.
With artist-made wooden frame, enamel.

ARTIST BIO: Wm. Reeder Fahnestock
Cincinnati, OH (b.1956)
US Air Force (1979 - 1984)
BFA Kansas City Art Institue, MO, 2001
MFA Kansas State University, KS, 2007
Studio Manager, Watershed Center for the Ceramic Arts, Newcastle, ME (2008- present)

Salt Skins by Kelsey Towle

Salt Skins, 8”x10” , Oil on Cradled Panel

ARTIST BIO: Kelsey is a lifelong Mainer who’s gratitude for being born here swells each year.  Nature is a favorite subject.  She thinks of the act of archiving the beautiful stoicism of Maine’s land and animals in her work as a small act of service toward them.

Near Stonington by Cynthia Gerry

Near Stonington, 22" x 18", Oil on canvas

Description: A rocky view of the coast. 

ARTIST BIO: I was an airborne Arabic linguist in the Air Force. While living in Greece I was able to travel and experience other cultures and landscapes. Art reflects our geography, history and reaction to the world.
I spend a lot of my spare time in the woods. As an avid (okay, obsessed) edible mushroom hunter it is more than just the trees or terrain, but also the light, scents and atmosphere that come into play in finding the treasure. My work as a professional gardener involves choosing a palette and composing a picture of sorts. It requires imagining the progression of the plants and colors and how the garden will evolve through the seasons and years. Painting feels like this to me, there is intention and accident both happening at a faster pace. My painting is an attempt to put my perceptions and thoughts onto the canvas, trying to render a person or landscape in a way that conveys more than just the physical, current condition.

Frida Reimagined by Rachel Deroche

Frida Reimagined, 10"x13", Acrylic

Hand of God by Julia Jones

Hand of God, 25”x32”, Acrylic on canvas

ARTIST BIO: An emerging artist and native of Union Maine, Julia spent 30 years in the U.S. Navy. Five years ago, her travels led her back to Southern Maine where she and her husband Edd now live. Julia’s interest in art and creativity began when she was young, by watching her mom Agnes knit, sew, crochet, cane chairs, cook, and many other forms of craft work. Although her career in the military did not foster a creative spirit, the desire to express herself through art and creativity never left her. Three years ago, Julia picked up the paintbrush again. artist. She is exploring painting with acrylic medium at Artstream Studios, Rollinsford, NH under the guidance of renowned artist, Susan Schwake.

EXHIBITIONS
2022 ​ Student Exhibition, Rochester Public Library, Rochester, NH
2023​Solo Exhibition at Berwick Public Library, Berwick, ME
​​​​Student Exhibition, Rochester Public Library, Rochester, NH
​​​​Group Exhibition, Ross Furniture, Dover, NH
​​​​​​

SERVICE
1984-2014 United States Navy, Human Resource Officer

EDUCATION
2010​Master of Business Science, Manpower Systems Analyst, Navy Postgraduate School, Monterey, California

2004​Bachelor of Science, Liberal Arts, Excelsior University, Albany, NY

Emerge by Rebecca Conley

Emerge, 16" x 20", Mixed media. 

Description: Emerge. Acrylic paint pouring with gold leaf detailing. 

ARTIST BIO: Living artfully after military retirement. 

Untitled by Cynthia Gerry

Untitled, 21" x 17", Oil on canvas

Description: Four men in a boat, I am not sure why.

ARTIST BIO: I was an airborne Arabic linguist in the Air Force. While living in Greece I was able to travel and experience other cultures and landscapes. Art reflects our geography, history and reaction to the world.

I spend a lot of my spare time in the woods. As an avid (okay, obsessed) edible mushroom hunter it is more than just the trees or terrain, but also the light, scents and atmosphere that come into play in finding the treasure. My work as a professional gardener involves choosing a palette and composing a picture of sorts. It requires imagining the progression of the plants and colors and how the garden will evolve through the seasons and years. Painting feels like this to me, there is intention and accident both happening at a faster pace. My painting is an attempt to put my perceptions and thoughts onto the canvas, trying to render a person or landscape in a way that conveys more than just the physical, current condition.

The Tourist Season by Heather Hancock

The Tourist Season, 39" x 27", Oil landscape on canvas with acrylic overlay figures with brushes

Description: Becoming part of the Maine Veterans scene and my take on the tourism industry from an onlooker perspective 

ARTIST BIO: Retired Lt Colonel who served over 4 years enlisted service now working in Maine as a trauma surgeon.  Spent time in Topsham as a child and couldn’t wait to get back to the area.  Painting is a means to heal and explore the world for me.

Under The Surface by Jeremy Drews

Under the Surface, 18" x 24", Acrylic on reclaimed canvas from Marden's

Description: Part one of a two part series explores very loose painting style over several other pieces that were previously started and left incomplete.  This was created, start to finish, in about 15 minutes. 

ARTIST BIO: I started painting during my painful transition from military member to civilian.  Without art I probably would not be here today; or at least would not be the same person I am today.  Painting has taught me to let go of perfection and allows me not be be in control; two things that are very difficult for me to consider normal.

Break Free by Rebecca Conley

Break Free, 16" x 20", Mixed media

Description: "Break free" from commercial pressure and expectations. 

ARTIST BIO: Living artfully after military retirement. 

Moose by Cynthia Gerry

Moose, 14" x 18", Oil on canvas

Description: A moose casually strolling into a swampy stream.

ARTIST BIO: I was an airborne Arabic linguist in the Air Force. While living in Greece I was able to travel and experience other cultures and landscapes. Art reflects our geography, history and reaction to the world.

I spend a lot of my spare time in the woods. As an avid (okay, obsessed) edible mushroom hunter it is more than just the trees or terrain, but also the light, scents and atmosphere that come into play in finding the treasure. My work as a professional gardener involves choosing a palette and composing a picture of sorts. It requires imagining the progression of the plants and colors and how the garden will evolve through the seasons and years. Painting feels like this to me, there is intention and accident both happening at a faster pace. My painting is an attempt to put my perceptions and thoughts onto the canvas, trying to render a person or landscape in a way that conveys more than just the physical, current condition.

Lost by Heather Love

Lost, 11" x 14", Hand Carved Wood Ink Print

Description: This is an original Intaglio Ink Print that was made from carving the image onto a wooden plate which was then transferred color by color onto Japanese Ginwadhi Paper.

ARTIST BIO: Heather Love is a third year double major at the University of Maine studying for her BA in Art Education, with a minor in Studio Art as well as her BA in Studio Art with a minor in Art History. As a 10 year Veteran with the United States Air Force, Heather has committed to sharing her passion of Art with the children of Maine as an Elementary School level Art Teacher once she graduates and hopes to help kids express themselves in a loving, healthy environment that encourages teamwork and creativity. 

Abundant by Daryne Rockett

Abundant, 36”x36", Acrylic on gallery-wrapped canvas

Description: This piece was created through the use of movement and music while painting in the company of a group of women veterans via Zoom.  These “Beautiful Souls” have been meeting since the pandemic and originally started as students in a drawing course.  Though most of us haven’t ever met in person, we have become a band of sisters who encourage, cajole, and support one another in art-making and in life. The painting was done intuitively in the early stages, and then layers of glaze were used to create a cohesive image.

ARTIST BIO: Daryne Rockett is a self-taught mixed media artist and Veteran of the US Air Force where she served as a Korean linguist. She began her foray into visual art ten years ago after sustaining a brain injury playing roller derby.  Though nearly fully recovered from the TBI now, she continues to make art as a means of self-expression, communication, wellness, and connection.

Hotel Nuits Saint-Pierre by Jeff Plucker

  Hotel Nuits Saint-Pierre,  9"x12", Acrylic on canvas board.

Description: A hotel on the French island of Saint-Pierre off the eastern coast of Newfoundland, Canada.I wanted to create a simple, fun painting incorporating copper metallic paint.

ARTIST BIO: Born an artist. Raised as an airdale for 20 years. Retired plays with art. I dabble with painting, drawing, and electric drawing tablet.

Staring Down The Sun by Jeremy Drews

 Staring Down The Sun, 18" x 24", Acrylic on reclaimed canvas from Marden's'

Description: Part two of a two part series explores very loose painting style over several other pieces that were previously started and left incomplete.  I only used a palette knife and a rubber stylus to paint these pieces.  I painted as fast as I could to avoid becoming overly attached to any mistakes.

ARTIST BIO: I started painting during my painful transition from military member to civilian.  Without art I probably would not be here today; or at least would not be the same person I am today.  Painting has taught me to let go of perfection and allows me not be be in control; two things that are very difficult for me to consider normal.

Here Comes the Sun by Valerie Lovelace

Here Comes the Sun, 30” x 30”, Acrylic on cradeled board

Description: The cycles of nature beckon us to fall jnto step with the natural world. This piece speaks to the fire I witness in our collective human resilience.

ARTIST STATEMENT: I have low vision and continue exploring ways of creating I’ve not experienced before. I’m self-taught, and find now more than ever that all art is a source of joy and power. 

Picasso Cowgirl by Rachel Deroche

Picasso Cowgirl, 8.5" x 11", Acrylic

The Virginia by Cassie Sano

The Virginia, 16"x20", oil on canvas

Description: The pinnace Virginia was the first English ocean-going ship built in the Americas.  It was built in 1607-1608 at the Popham Colony’s Fort St George located near the mouth of the Kennebec River. A replica has been built by volunteers of the Maine's First Ship non-profit to educate the public on its construction. It's home is on the Kennebec River in Bath, Maine. I painted this replica on site.

ARTIST BIO: I am an Army veteran and an artist living in Augusta, Maine. I love plein air painting where I can explore new places while doing what I love the most. Creating art brings me joy, peace, and a great sense of purpose.

Service Wall Hanging by Katherine VerSluis

Service Wall Hanging, 26.5”x26.5”, Quilt

Description: Wall hanging quilt of military service. 

ARTIST BIO: Kate VerSluis, NC1(EAWS), U.S. Navy (1982-1994).  Kate was born in Nevada and raised on a farm in Downsville, Wisconsin. At 19 she enlisted in the United States Navy, which provided an opportunity to enjoy the cultures of many different countries. She also earned her Enlisted Aviation Warfare Specialist. After the Gulf War, and 12 years of military service, Kate relocated to Sabattus, Maine, utilizing her Telecommunications Degree in the cable industry until retirement in 2014. Kate now spends her time enjoying art and adaptive sports. She sells her art through Facebook @whateverartbykate_versluis. All proceeds go to the Corey Edwin Garver American Legion Posts 202, Topsham, Maine to support local veterans. For more information about American Legion Post 202, visit www.post202me.com/

At Sea by John Ripley

At Sea, 25" x 21", pencil

Description: Drawing of a classic Maine lobsterman, hard at work.

ARTIST BIO: Former journalist and aide to US Rep. John Baldacci and Gov. Angus King. US Navy Reserve Public Affairs Officer, retired in 2023. Service included Operation Iraqi Freedom and Afghanistan. 

Searching the Sea by Jax Guay

Searching the Sea, 18.5" x 14.5", Pen on bristol

Description: What we find and see when we are not looking

ARTIST BIO: I have a busy, bright and creative mind. I am a career Army Combat Medic. I appreciate my retirement and continue to Serve my community through Veteran Affairs and Art. 

Around the Reading Rug by Caitlin Gearhart

Around the Reading Rug, 36" round, Wool/ mixed fiber

Description: Crocheted wool/mixed fiber rug done in the round. Intended to be used as a reading rug/ play space for small children. To create a colorful and cozy space all their own to dive into a story and a whole new world of adventures.

ARTIST BIO: Fiber Artist Living in Augusta, Maine with 3 teenage children. Served in the Navy for 6 years before moving back to Maine and working for the VA serving other veterans for over 12 years. Loves to bake and cook. Frequently found at the D&D table with her partner and friends exploring and creating new worlds.

Fussbudgit by Deborah Loughlin

Fussbudgit, 22" by 28" vertical, Orange cyanotype on canson paper

ARTIST STATEMENT: I am all over the map when it comes to art making and my own process with materials. I have learned about myself and art making from working and attending art schools, to being raised on an island, to being a mother, and wife, working in all kinds of interesting jobs and from being in the military for a bit of my life . I served at the tail end of the Vietnam War thru 1979. Lots occurred during that time of my life. Many changes both good and bad happened all influencing me as a person. One thing remained constant is my urge to create and make. I try to learn new ways of making work and when learning a new skill. I try to push the envelope a bit, tweak the process a bit, and break the rules alot. My current work is cyanotype, a photographic process using chemistry and light. The work I am entering for submission is Cyanollage( I think I made this word up) but it is just that - I use the cyanotypes that didn't work out to make my impression of animals in this case a chicken titled Fussbudgit and a harbor seal named Moonin.

Precious Cut by Katherine VerSluis

Precious Cut, 8”x10”, Black and white photo

Description: One generation caring so preciously for another generation. Granddaughter with her Grammie. 

ARTIST BIO: Kate VerSluis, NC1(EAWS), U.S. Navy (1982-1994).  Kate was born in Nevada and raised on a farm in Downsville, Wisconsin. At 19 she enlisted in the United States Navy, which provided an opportunity to enjoy the cultures of many different countries. She also earned her Enlisted Aviation Warfare Specialist. After the Gulf War, and 12 years of military service, Kate relocated to Sabattus, Maine, utilizing her Telecommunications Degree in the cable industry until retirement in 2014. Kate now spends her time enjoying art and adaptive sports. She sells her art through Facebook @whateverartbykate_versluis. All proceeds go to the Corey Edwin Garver American Legion Posts 202, Topsham, Maine to support local veterans. For more information about American Legion Post 202, visit www.post202me.com/

Hope by Jax Guay

Hope, 18.5" x 14.5", Pencil on bristol

Description: As we part past Hope. 

ARTIST BIO: I have a busy, bright and creative mind. I am a career Army Combat Medic. I appreciate my retirement and continue to Serve my community through Veteran Affairs and Art. 

Moonin by Deborah Loughlin

Moonin, 16" by 20" horizontal, Cyanollage on nautical chart

ARTIST STATEMENT: I am all over the map when it comes to art making and my own process with materials. I have learned about myself and art making from working and attending art schools, to being raised on an island, to being a mother, and wife, working in all kinds of interesting jobs and from being in the military for a bit of my life . I served at the tail end of the Vietnam War thru 1979. Lots occurred during that time of my life. Many changes both good and bad happened all influencing me as a person. One thing remained constant is my urge to create and make. I try to learn new ways of making work and when learning a new skill. I try to push the envelope a bit, tweak the process a bit, and break the rules alot. My current work is cyanotype, a photographic process using chemistry and light. The work I am entering for submission is Cyanollage( I think I made this word up) but it is just that - I use the cyanotypes that didn't work out to make my impression of animals in this case a chicken titled Fussbudgit and a harbor seal named Moonin.

Snowstorm on the Kennebec by Cassie Sano

The Northend Shipyard, 20"x24", Oil on canvas

Description: Snowstorm on the Kennebec was inspired by a storm last winter when we had about eighteen inches of snowfall. After shoveling my driveway, I wanted to take pictures around Augusta during the storm, but the roads were not plowed yet. I walked through the deep snow to this spot (the view from the fire station). It was a beautiful sight and I went right to work painting it from my photo in my home studio.

ARTIST BIO: I am an Army veteran and an artist living in Augusta, Maine. I love plein air painting where I can explore new places while doing what I love the most. Creating art brings me joy, peace, and a great sense of purpose.

Standing On The Edge by Jennifer Morris

Standing On The Edge, 24" x18", Acrylic and thread on canvas

ARTIST STATEMENT: I have spent the last few years using layers of color to organize the thoughts and chaos in both my head and the world as I spread paint across canvases. These layered paintings represent feelings that capture a moment in time, making something beautiful out of times that are not always so great. As this year progressed, I began adding mixed media elements to reflect the unpredictability of life.

I Only Grow From Love by Jax Guay

I Only Grow From Love, 22" x 18", Pencil on bristol

Description: Ode to knowing ourselves through Peace.

ARTIST BIO: I have a busy, bright and creative mind. I am a career Army Combat Medic. I appreciate my retirement and continue to Serve my community through Veteran Affairs and Art. 

20th Maine Little Round Top by Michelle Ross

20th Maine Little Round Top, 12"x 24", Oil on canvas

Description: Abstract of the 20th Maine monument on Little Round Top, Gettysburg.

ARTIST STATEMENT: I find myself drawn to an array of mediums, from watercolor, pastels, acrylics oils and mixed media. Inspired to create abstracts from my lived experience primarily in Alaska and coastal Maine, I also draw on childhood memories growing up in New Hampshire. I take my cues from the natural environment and rich historical architecture creating colors and texture that resonate and reflect my chosen spaces.

Just Past The Full Moon by Jennifer Morris

Just Past The Full Moon,  24" x18", Acrylic and thread on canvas

Acrylic and thread on canvas

ARTIST STATEMENT: I have spent the last few years using layers of color to organize the thoughts and chaos in both my head and the world as I spread paint across canvases. These layered paintings represent feelings that capture a moment in time, making something beautiful out of times that are not always so great. As this year progressed, I began adding mixed media elements to reflect the unpredictability of life.

Serendipity by Lee Liggett

Serendipity, 30" X 24", Oil and acrylics on canvas

ARTIST STATEMENT: I ventured into the creative arts 20 years ago first dabbling in pottery on which I painted colorful shapes. I found inspiration in using my hands to create something appealing. I began to realize that creating decorative shapes brought me more satisfaction than making the actual piece. That led me to try an acrylics painting class. That process focused on the basics of representational art. Painting from beautiful photographs of natural and real objects. However, the more representational painting I did the more I had this nagging desire to break out from real world constraints and paint imaginary shapes and colors. Abstract art subtly pulled me in. From the world surrounding me I see shapes manipulated by my mind’s eye. I want to apply colors promoting gaiety causing those shapes to tickle the viewer’s imagination resulting in an escape, if only for a moment. Inspiration comes to me from watching someone gaze at my painting, give an interested nod and then smile.

Bring your own bananas Seldovia by Michelle Ross

Bring your own bananas Seldovia, 8" x 24", Oil on canvas

Description: Oil on canvas landscape of Kachemak Bay, AK from a boat from Homer to Seldovia  (a trip taken one summer with a shipmate).

ARTIST STATEMENT: I find myself drawn to an array of mediums, from watercolor, pastels, acrylics oils and mixed media. Inspired to create abstracts from my lived experience primarily in Alaska and coastal Maine, I also draw on childhood memories growing up in New Hampshire. I take my cues from the natural environment and rich historical architecture creating colors and texture that resonate and reflect my chosen spaces.

Chickadee by Margaret Williams

Chickadee, 8.5" X 11", Quilt Art

Description: Chickadee sitting on a branch.

ARTIST BIO: I am an Army veteran retiring as Master Sergeant. 

Lunch Crowd by Tim Byrne

 Lunch Crowd, 20" x 16" (framed), Photograph 

Description: I feel so small

ARTIST STATEMENT: Creating photo images is a process which requires artistic vision, technical knowledge of camera and software, and the discipline to keep at it until personally satisfied with the outcome. I suspect most of this process originated for me as I completed my basic military training and has continued to be a part of my life since. Even though mostly retired, I find I need to have this to sustain me as I go through my daily life. Good news? It works.

One of a kind writing Instruments by Patrick Linehan

One of a kind writing Instruments, 6.5" x 6.5", Custom individual turned pens'

ARTIST BIO: Army Veteran, from last century. Community volunteer, Kennebec County Veterans Honor Guard member, Maine Veteran Woodturners member

Eagle by Margaret Williams

Eagle, 11" X 14", Quilt Art,

Description: Eagle soaring above mountains in Maine.

ARTIST BIO: I am an Army veteran retiring as Master Sergeant. 

One Cold Morning by Lori Bryant

One Cold Morning, 20"x16", Acrylic on canvas

Description: When it’s cold outside, art will keep you warm inside. 

ARTIST STATEMENT: After a lifetime of struggles, in 2019, I began therapy. My therapist incorporated art into our sessions. I met different parts of me as they came forward to create. I was diagnosed with dissociative identity disorder. My life, the amnesia, the various symptoms, the confusion. My life came together like a puzzle. Trauma broke me into pieces. Art is putting me back together. I hope my paintings speak to you. I hope to raise awareness of mental health issues and the healing power of art. 

State of Maine Cutting Board by John Barry.

State of Maine Cutting Board, 12" x 17",  Walnut, maple and cherry wood.

ARTIST BIO: My name is John Barry.  I am a 17 year Navy Veteran and current student at Eastern Maine Community College pursuing Fine woodworking and Cabinetry.   I learned many things in my military service but I wasn't always able to choose what I wanted to learn.  I feel extremely fortunate to be able to now chase down my passion for woodworking.  I believe art comes in many forms and I would like to submit my current project in class which will be a cutting board, cut as the State of Maine.  (current work in progress)

Indian Chief by Chip Loring

Indian Chief, 6"x8", Pencil sketch

Description: Humble. 

ARTIST BIO: Chip is a member of the Penobscot Nation who served in the Army as a paratrooper with the 173rd Airborne Brigade from 1967-1968  and the 75th Rangers in 1969.  He loves canoeing and competing in triathlons. He has been interested in art most of his life and drawing since he was five years old.  Chip really enjoys helping others and giving things away to people who need them.  He also enjoys playing cribbage. 

Girl On Fire by Heather Hancock_

Girl On Fire, 21"x 31", Oil on poster board with brushes

Description: The results of PTSD and the beginning of post traumatic growth. 

ARTIST BIO: Retired Lt Colonel who served over 4 years enlisted service now working in Maine as a trauma surgeon.  Spent time in Topsham as a child and couldn’t wait to get back to the area.  Painting is a means to heal and explore the world for me.

Jonah in the Whale by Cabot Lyford

Jonah in the Whale, 13" x 19", Watercolor, $7,400.00

Description: The public debut of CABOT LYFORD's "Jonah in the Whale" (1958) watercolor was in Spring 2023 at the 65th Anniversary of The Maine Art Gallery in Wiscasset, ME. CABOT LYFORD used the same imagery over a decade later and created a "Jonah in the Whale" in slate and aluminum on a stone base (1970). CABOT LYFORD's sculpture was purchased by the Addison Gallery of American Art (Andover, MA) in 1973 and remains in the permanent collection. 

ARTIST BIO: Cabot Lyford is best known as a sculptor with works at the Farnsworth Art Museum, Ogunquit Museum of American Art, Portland Museum of Art, Portland International Jetport, Regency Hotel and Spa in Portland, Maine Audubon in Falmouth, Vivian E. Hussey Primary School in Berwick, all in Maine; the Addison Gallery of American Art in Andover, New Bedford Whaling Museum in New Bedford and at Ocean Spray Cranberries in Plymouth, all in Massachusetts; Christ Episcopal Church and the Phillips Exeter Academy Library in Exeter, New Hampshire and Four Tree Island, Prescott Park, Great Bay Community College and the USS Albacore Museum, all in Portsmouth, New Hampshire; the Wichita Art Museum in Kansas and the Hunter Museum of American Art in Tennessee. Lyford direct carved various types of stone — marble, slate, beach stone and granite — as well as American hardwoods. Cabot Lyford’s preferred medium was black granite. Lyford’s work ranges from sensuous nudes, animated animals and whimsical political commentary to abstract assemblages of shapes or puzzles. Cabot Lyford wrote and illustrated stories for children, scripts for television and one play. Following graduation from Scarsdale High School in 1942, Cabot Lyford attended Cornell University to study architecture but left to enlist in World War II. Lyford served as a combat rifleman, runner and scout with the 96th Infantry Division during the battle of Leyte in the Philippines. He was transferred to the Army Signal Corps in early 1945 as a draftsman and was stationed in Cebu City for the remainder of the war. After witnessing first-hand war's ugliness and brutality, Cabot Lyford was committed not only to the peaceful resolution of global conflict but also filling the world with beautiful things. 

Service Dog by Daryne Rockett

Service Dog, 9”x12” plus mat and frame, Watercolor and acrylic on paper

Description: This is a portrait of my newly graduated service dog, Luna.  It is one of a series of twelve portraits done of the dogs of Woof Company 23 - the cohort of dogs to complete training with Maine PAWS for Veterans alongside their Veteran handlers. The painting is complete but the service dog is a continual work in progress!

ARTIST BIO: Daryne Rockett is a self-taught mixed media artist and Veteran of the US Air Force where she served as a Korean linguist. She began her foray into visual art ten years ago after sustaining a brain injury playing roller derby.  Though nearly fully recovered from the TBI now, she continues to make art as a means of self-expression, communication, wellness, and connection.

Lonesome by Chip Loring

Lonesome, 6"x8", Pencil sketch

Description: Elk in the wild,

ARTIST BIO: Chip is a member of the Penobscot Nation who served in the Army as a paratrooper with the 173rd Airborne Brigade from 1967-1968  and the 75th Rangers in 1969.  He loves canoeing and competing in triathlons. He has been interested in art most of his life and drawing since he was five years old.  Chip really enjoys helping others and giving things away to people who need them.  He also enjoys playing cribbage. 

Pileated Woodpecker Making a Hole in a Tree for a Nest by Terry Wescott

Pileated Woodpecker Making a Hole in a Tree for a Nest, 8.5"x11", Acrylic

ARTIST STATEMENT: The reason Terry started doing his art was to break up the PTSD, to help keep his mind off the PTSD. Coming in and meeting friends, really good people doing the art class, makes it so his PTSD isn't on the register all the time, and gives him an opportunity to connect with other veterans.  In his spare time Terry does a lot of canoeing and competes in several races throughout the year. He even goes for a paddle on New Year's Day just to get the year started.

Endless Summer by Lee Liggett

Endless Summer, 30"X15", Oil & Acrylics on canvas

ARTIST STATEMENT: I ventured into the creative arts 20 years ago first dabbling in pottery on which I painted colorful shapes. I found inspiration in using my hands to create something appealing. I began to realize that creating decorative shapes brought me more satisfaction than making the actual piece. That led me to try an acrylics painting class. That process focused on the basics of representational art. Painting from beautiful photographs of natural and real objects. However, the more representational painting I did the more I had this nagging desire to break out from real world constraints and paint imaginary shapes and colors. Abstract art subtly pulled me in. From the world surrounding me I see shapes manipulated by my mind’s eye. I want to apply colors promoting gaiety causing those shapes to tickle the viewer’s imagination resulting in an escape, if only for a moment. Inspiration comes to me from watching someone gaze at my painting, give an interested nod and then smile.