Augusta, ME – The Maine Arts Commission is proud to announce that a stunning exhibition of artwork, previously exhibited at the Schoolhouse Gallery in Kingfield, will be on display until February in Maine’s Capitol Complex as part of the agency’s Arts in the Capitol program.Colorful landscape photography by John and Cynthia Orcutt accompany painted bas-reliefs of birds by Hugh Verrier to bring an unprecedented array of vibrancy to those who visit and work in the Capitol.“The Maine Arts Commission is delighted to be hosting this exhibition of work,” said Julie Richard, Executive Director of the Maine Arts Commission. “These artists depict familiar visions of Maine’s landscape and wildlife in a way that is unique and engaging. When I recently attended a meeting in the Capitol, many in the room were commenting on the artwork and were delighted by these wonderful pieces."The exhibit will remain on display until February of 2013. The work is viewable by the public throughout the week at the Maine State House from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., and at the Blaine House from 2:00 to 4:00 p.m., Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday. Those wishing to visit the Blaine House are advised to call ahead. John and Cynthia Orcutt are fine art nature photographers and avid outdoor enthusiasts. Following a distinguished career as a landscape architect team, they have pursued their interest in creating an awareness of the necessity for active preservation of fragile places. Through their photographic images, they express the inherent beauty of areas endangered by easy public access and frequent visitation. Their imagery reminds viewers of the need to tread softly on their natural and cultural heritage, and serves as a call for all to participate in the act of preservation. 

 John and Cynthia’s work has been exhibited widely and can be found in many public and private Farm. Cynthia is active on community committees including Kingfield Village Enhancement Committee, BikeMaine Organizing Committee and the long range planning committee for Maine Huts and Trails.

 Hugh Verrier was born and raised on the rocky coast of Maine. He worked for many years as a tugboat captain, commercial fisherman and small business owner. This association with the sea has inspired his artistic work and he now owns and operates his own gallery and studio on the shore of Flagstaff Lake in Eustis. Here he exhibits his unique watercolor sculptures that are formed from very heavy French paper into lovely birds and fish; these sculptures are then brought alive with watercolor.

Hugh has an extensive exhibition history throughout Maine and New England. His work has been represented by the Jameson Gallery in Portland, Alone Moose Gallery in Bar Harbor, and the Mast Cove Gallery in Kennebunkport. His work has been exhibited by Maine Coast Artists in two of their prestigious annual shows. Most recently his was selected for a solo exhibition at Heartwood College of Art in Kennebunk.

 The work of these artists can be seen at the State House, Blaine House and offices of the Maine Arts Commission until February 2013.

 All Arts in the Capitol events and free and open to the public; however, exhibitions are self-guided and may only be viewed within prescribed times: Maine Arts Commission Office 8:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday; Maine State House 8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m., Monday through Friday; and the Blaine House - 2:00 - 4:00 p.m., Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday (Please call ahead at 207/287-2121). For more information on this and all programs available through the Maine Arts Commission, visit MaineArts.com.

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