Peaks Island Art

anytime shopping

2011-11-10T04:33:00.000-08:00

Soon the Gem Gallery will install it's annual Holiday Shop, but meanwhile Laura Glendenning and friends are showing Artery: half art, half article. This is a collection of new, reused, and repurposed articles of clothing as well as books, bags, hats, scarves. Find just the perfect thing amid paintings, pottery, and jewelry.

Fall hours are Saturday and Sunday, noon - 5 PM.

holidays at the Gem

2010-12-01T04:41:00.001-08:00

Everyone can get a brand new bag at the Gem Gallery. The annual Holiday Shop will open this Friday, and will be open for Saturdays and Sundays, noon to 5 PM during December.
Come on in, and see the bounty of island wares, from fleece hats, to glass vases, to earrings and unique necklaces, to pastels, prints, oils, and pottery.

The Gem Gallery will host a book signing on December 18th from 2:30 PM until 5PM, two books, on Peaks Island: For the Love of Peaks – Island Portraits & Stories: A Collection by Fran Houston and A Glimpse of Old Peaks Island: Through Rose-Colored Glasses by Alice Boyce, Eunice Curran, Ellin Gallant, Reta Morrill & Joyce O'Brien. Featuring wonderful music by Ronda Dale and Kevin Attra. A check will be presented to Peaks Island Tax Assistance for 10% of the gross sales this year for For the Love of Peaks. Please Join us!

art on the walls, poetry in the woods

2010-10-23T08:46:00.001-07:00

Gem member Jamie Hogan shared original art from the recently published "Nest, Nook & Cranny" at the Gem Gallery on October 16. The poem collection about animal habitats, written by Susan Blackaby, provided a great spring board for evocative line drawings by Jamie. She hung sketches and variations of color work that became the final art for the cover.

Meanwhile, Garry Fox, president of the Peaks Island Land Preserve, led a guided nature walk on a PILP trail dotted with pages from the book.

It was a poetic way to bring literacy outside, and thanks to Healthy Portland for sponsoring the signage. A portion of proceeds from the sale of art, books, and prints will benefit the Peaks Island Land Preserve. After all, it's the natural beauty and its stewardship that inspires the island artists who inhabit its environs.

On October 23, PILP opens Battery Steele to the annual pagan art festival, Sacred and Profane. The procession begins from Welch Street off the 2:15 boat from Portland.

Come see this mysterious and sacred event.

paula coward

2010-08-14T07:19:00.000-07:00

A native of California, Paula Coward found a community to call home on Peaks Island about two years ago. After gallery rounds in LA and travels in Asia, she has settled into a creative groove in Maine. Her current show at the Gem Gallery is a mix of wood, ink, watercolor and pastel with an emphasis on pattern and symmetry.

Paula, on the right, at her opening on Friday night:

This piece is ink on wood with a glossy surface.

Paula's work will be on display through next Wednesday, August 18. Gallery hours are
11 - 6 PM daily. Take a ferry to Peaks, walk up the hill, left at the ice cream store. When the gallery is open, a red sandwich board is on the sidewalk, right before the Post Office. Call 766-5600 for more information.

Meanwhile, over on City Point Road, Jane Banquer is furiously carving wood blocks for her upcoming show, "Shelter by the Sea," August 19 - 25 in the back gallery. Jane's opening will be next Friday, August 20 from 5 - 8 PM.

Jane shares a sunny studio with partner, Norm Proulx, who also exhibits at the Gem Gallery. Their studio is open for the last Art Walk of the summer on August 28.

In the Gem show, Jane's deep background in printmaking will be on view, with woodcuts, and solar plate etchings, along with paintings inspired by cottages by the sea.

Also this weekend, some members of the Gem Gallery will participate in the annual Art on the Porch at the Fifth Maine at 45 Seashore Avenue. Paul Brahms, Jamie Hogan, Peg Astarita, and Kathy Newell, Thea Demitre, Betsy Stout, and Martha Morris Gibson will be among 40 artists selling their work on August 15 from 10 - 3 PM.

Enjoy the views and meet the artists!

forsaken

2010-08-03T16:50:00.000-07:00

Claudia Whitman (on right) speaks with an art patron about her work during the current show at the Gem Gallery which is on exhibit July 29 - August 11.

Norm Proulx and Claudia Whitman share the walls of the back gallery in the Gem for two weeks, as they have for the last couple of summers. Their work complements each other; although disparate in both approach and motive, these pieces speak about work.

"Forsaken Workplaces, Forsaken Workers" is a dual exhibit that touches on one theme in very different ways.

Claudia's pieces make use of her collage and assemblage.

Claudia makes this statement about her series:

This show is a response to the NYTimes Magazine articles I read last summer about women being the only hope for the world. There were descriptions of poor communities around the world where women got small micro loans that led to small businesses but huge changes in the family and economic dynamics. Husbands often stopped beating their wives. I decided I needed to focus on women, particularly in the so-called third world. Hanging in my window was a mobile from NAWOU, the National Association of Women’s Organizations in Uganda, with spectacular figures in different poses. I thought I might make something like these figures, but then it occurred to me that I could use theirs and in such a manner, contribute to awareness of their endeavors and to their financial efforts. I e-mailed them and asked if I could use the figures in my art pieces if I gave them credit and also offered to give them a percentage of any sales. They answered enthusiastically in favor of the project. Thus, I will be donating 10% of sales to NAWOU, will send pictures of the individual pieces, and will offer to bring the show to Uganda at some time in the future.

My art has always been a collaboration: items I find and things I make; incorporation of old works into new ideas; use of prints made by school kids with work of my own. This show stretches the concept further for me.

NAWOU

NAWOU, The National Association of Women's Organizations in Uganda, is a non-governmental organization representing women's groups in Uganda. The goal of NAWOU is to improve the status and living conditions of women in Uganda and to make women self-reliant. In addition to running income generation projects, NAWOU is also involved in micro credit, information and research, advocacy, and lobbying for women’s rights.

NAWOU’s handcraft project supports 70 women’s handcraft groups, representing over 1,000 women. With the income earned from making handcrafts, the women provide needed resources to their families. Having a sustainable source of income has not only improved their self esteem and confidence, but has also enabled women to cope with social economic issues and has given the women a stronger voice in their families and communities. Earning their own income has meant that women are able to make decisions and be less dependent on men for accessing their basic needs like food, shelter, health and education for their children.

Through an agreement with NAWOU to use the figures in my art pieces, I will be donating 10% of all sales to NAWOU.

BASKETS are made by Dhaka Handcrafts, an independent organization designed to assist impoverished rural artisans in Bangladesh to attain self-sufficiency, and at the same time to encourage and market traditional craftsmanship.

Norm Proulx has created a series of pastels and acrylic paintings of mills in Maine.

Weather is grand for traveling via ferry to the Gem Gallery on sunny Peaks Island! Call 207-766-5600 for gallery hours.

You can also see the work of Peaks Island artist Jeanne O'Toole Hayman at the newly relocated Addison Woolley Gallery from August 5 - 28. Gallery hours at 132 Washington Avenue in Portland are
Wed. - Sat. 11:30 - 5.

super freak species

2010-07-26T16:53:00.001-07:00

Carol Cartier has mounted another mind-boggling installation of magical curiosities.

She is a truly obsessed Thing Finder, and our world is better for it. She finds mystical joys in the most unexpected places, such as worn shoe soles and specimen tags.

Try to picture the pains involved in carting this amount of ephemera from one place to another, and placing it JUST SO, like Joseph Cornell waaaaay out of the box.

Here in this Cabinet of Curiosities, she shares a love of shiny elements with David Sheppard, an artisan extraordinaire whose silver boxes hold secrets worth keeping.

Carol delights in surfaces and textures, combining here fur, leather, and funk.

Along one wall of the Gem Gallery is a row of tintypes by Cole Caswell, a photographer from another dimension. His metallic portraits capture the itinerant souls of his rogue subjects with a delicate blend of the past and future. Pure alchemy. You can find him ducking under a black cloth at the Portland Farmer's Market, or at the next Art Walk, or at We Are X on High Street in Portland.

Carol Cartier's unique installation is only on exhibit through July 28. You MUST see it to believe it.

Next up: Norm Proulx and Claudia Whitman who pair their talents in indescribable ways.

Opening reception: July 29, 5 - 8 PM.

2010-07-19T17:15:00.000-07:00

At Gem Gallery hanging our show.

2010-07-18T07:26:00.000-07:00

2010-07-18T07:24:00.000-07:00

A sweet view of our beloved on a super hot summer day. Bird houses by Alfred Wood, painted children's furniture by Nancy Chalmers.

2010-07-18T07:18:00.000-07:00

A view of the current show, KIN. Prints and animation by Jackman Wood and paintings by Diane Wiencke. In the forground is a silkscreen portrait by Jackman. At the top left are small landscape paintings by Paul Brahms .

2010-07-18T07:14:00.000-07:00

This is a 4x8 woodcut By Jackman Wood. The image accompanies the animation piece who's content depicts a man's walkabout from and back to his home in the wilderness.

2010-07-18T07:03:00.000-07:00

This is a still from Jackman Wood's animation piece currently showing at Gem. The flat screen monitor is mounted on a wheat pasted woodcut wall. Jackman' prints compliment the soft tonal qualities of Diane Wiencke's encaustic colorfield paintings

work in progress. d. wiencke studio

2010-07-11T14:25:00.000-07:00

Studio view

2010-07-11T14:23:00.000-07:00

KIN

2010-07-11T14:19:00.000-07:00

The work of Jackman Wood and Diane Wiencke
Paintings, Prints and Animation
Opening Reception Saturday July 17th 5-8
Show runs through Wednesday July 21

carol cartier's upcoming show

2010-07-11T14:10:00.000-07:00

I'm working on new pieces for my upcoming show at the Gem on July 23. Here's a preview of the progress.

These are pieces of coral from Coral Bay, St. John, US Virgin Islands. My family and I visited 2 years ago. I tried to find an entire alphabet. Fat chance. Must return.

Desk mess.

The deer"skull" is a broken lobster buoy. The eyes wink. The group of tags are part of a piece that celebrates the gorgeous simple specimen label.

This is an unassembled assemblage of a seal! The dude does not have his tattoos yet.

Here are 2 birds. one is made from beach-combed finds the other from tin and vintage protractors.
lots more to do. I'm out of my tree.

Come to my Cabinet of Curiosities. July 23 5-8
Secrets will be revealed.

light and water

2010-07-09T11:55:00.000-07:00

The Gem Gallery is now showing paintings by Lavendier Myers, wood sculptures by Steve B. King, and jewelry by Betsy Stout. It makes for a fresh combination of media, forms, and purpose.

Lavendier's series of acrylics feature color rippling across watery surfaces. Perfect for a steamy summer. Her bold strokes splash across the canvas with joyful energy.

Steve works in wood, light, and time. His sculpture in the corner is whimsical and yet holds great presence, echoing the curves and elipses found in Lavendier's paintings.

The delicate silver, stone, and bead creations by Betsy hang like droplets around the gallery.

The show is up through July 14. Be sure to stop in and meet the artists, who will man the gallery from 11 AM to 6 PM daily.

Paul Brahm's show, which you may have missed, was filled to the brim with his sun-spangled paintings of people at the island shore.

Here is Paul, reflected in Dustine Price's assemblage mirror, discussing a commission in the front room of the gallery.

Summer shows change weekly, so stop in often. The back gallery rotates exhibits on Thursdays, while the front gallery houses the work of over 20 artists in the collective, with regular updates of art fresh from the hands of island makers.

The front door is blooming with flowers, and Dustine Price's assemblage mermaid beckons the curious.

Do stop in!

new paintings

2010-06-30T10:41:00.000-07:00

Paul Brahms invites one and all to his opening this Thursday, July 1 at 5 PM. Come see what this prolific painter is all about. He's in big demand for commissions at this time of year, but still manages to capture the island, rusty relics, and objects of his fancy.

Stop in this week during the show and meet Paul. Hours: 11 - 6 daily til through July 7.
The Gem Gallery is up the hill from the ferry, left on Island Avenue and just before the
Post Office.

found heart

2010-06-26T05:53:00.001-07:00

The Gem Gallery is once again OPEN for summer! This unassuming venue at 62 Island Avenue on Peaks Island will now hang out the sign, 11 AM - 6 PM daily.

Summer resident Dustine Price's "Found Heart" is an exuberant mix of assemblage and wordplay. Dustine graduated from Maryland Institute College of Art and has taught art at all levels. Currently working in elementary schools and juggling small children, her work reflects an optimism and wit, with resourceful use of unexpected materials.

The opening reception was held Friday evening, June 25.

Dustine enjoys mixing media at every opportunity.

This small sculpture is like a curious cross between Buddha and Yellow Submarine.

Dustine identifies with her mermaid creation.

The upcoming schedule promises to be pretty lively:

7/1-7/7 Paul Brahms
7/8-7/14 Lavendier Myers
7/15-7/21 Diane Wiencke
7/22-7/28 Carol Cartier
7/29-8/11 Norm Proulx and Claudia Whitman
8/12-8/18 Paula Coward
8/19-8/25 Jane Banquer

Check here for updates on what's happening!

Stop in and meet the artists. Featured artists exhibit in the rear gallery, with over 20 island artists sharing space in the front gallery. Something for everyone, from
jewelry to glassware, pottery to prints, oils to books.

We are only a breezy 15 minutes from Portland.

lovies at the Gem

2010-06-17T18:26:00.001-07:00

Anne Romanyshyn, Fran Houston, and Phil Munn share the love at the Gem Gallery's sunny book launch party on May 31 for Fran Houston's "For the Love of Peaks."

Fran began collecting the stories of island elders, interviewing and photographing them a couple of years ago. She exhibited her photographs at the Gem Gallery last summer and responded to the immediate demand for a book by applying for a grant. With intrepid diligence, some funding from the Maine Arts Commission and the Maine Humanities Council, and support from islanders, Fran's book took shape.

Here, Nancy 3 Hoffman, Island Times editor Kevin Attra, and Rhonda Dale combine their acoustic genius on the street.

You really can't beat live music to make a celebration complete.

"For the Love of Peaks" is available at the Gem and Longfellow Books.

Meanwhile, the Gem will hold an opening reception on Saturday, June 19 for the annual Affordable Art show from 5 - 8 PM. Come meet the folks in this island collective.

A peek at what's currently on view:

paintings by Norm Proulx from a series on local mills

delicate drawings by Jane Banquer, such as this momento of a trip to Paris

a whole shelf of variety, with encaustics by Diane Wiencke, a pastel of peonies by Jamie Hogan, and a basket woven by Martha Morris Gibson

how about a hand painted folksy bench by Kathy Newell and a dreamy field of blue by Adam Wilson?

There is all this and much more: jewelry, oils, glass, photographs, pottery and more books. Peaks Island boasts very diverse makers and creators. Stop in this weekend and get maps for Saturday's first Art Walk of the summer.

gem back in bloom

2010-04-11T05:46:00.001-07:00

The Gem Gallery is open again, with fresh works and some new members. A reception was held in the gallery on March 26 to welcome Kathy Newell, Paula Coward, Adam Wilson, Laura Glendening, and Jackman Wood.

Below is a display of ceramic cups by Peg Astarita and jewelry by Betsy Stout.

We're such a diverse group: from paint to pastel, prints to photographs, fiber arts and glass, jewelry and assemblage. The common denominator is a connection to Peaks Island. Many members are long-time year-round residents and some have just left their hearts here on the rock.

This is a Diane Wiencke painting paired with a fish vase by Peg Astarita.

Kathy Newell works in many materials but with a signature folk art aesthetic, such as this hooked rug.

Painter Paul Brahms is showing a series of work featuring vehicles, each one a character in a road trip of the mind.

The Gem is open on Saturdays and Sundays from noon - 5 PM. Call 766-5600 for more information. We're located up the hill from the Casco Bay Lines ferry. Take a left at the ice cream store and we're right before the Post Office. Come on in and meet your artist!

think pink

2010-02-19T09:58:00.001-08:00

The Gem hosted another Think Pink Give Love show with fresh work ranging from glass to wearable art to encaustics.

Here is a woodblock print by Jane Banquer next to painting by Norm Proulx.

Peg Astarita created this lovey dovey button mirror.

Gallery members are preparing for the next group show, "Undone" which opens on March 12. This will be touch on issues of dementia and coping with Alzheimers.

Stay tuned for more events!

holiday shop 2009

2009-12-14T18:20:00.000-08:00

The Gem Gallery's annual Holiday Shop is chock full of original gifts. Above are unique collages by Diane Wiencke, for cards or framing. There's also a wall hung with paintings and encaustics, some by Diane, some by Norm Proulx. Baskets by Martha Morris Gibson, island style.

These are fuzzy felted Santas by Barbara Carter. Your tree is naked without them, honestly.

What about an original oil painting in an antique frame by Paul Brahms? A divine still life of morning ritual, that keeps one buttered and sweet for the rest of one's days...

Here are handcrafted rings by the notable artisan, David Sheppard. Limited edition, Santa glove optional.

These are fused glass plates by the multi-talented Thea DiMitre. She also has jewelry in the gallery. And an amazing voice. And, coincidentally a cute black-and-white dog.

Speaking of cute, if you know a small someone who loves riding the ferries on Casco Bay,
take note of this handpainted child's chair by Nancy Chalmers.

Hark! A multitude of jewelry, every piece made locally, perfect for that partridge in a pear tree you're partial to.

These are just a few of my favorite things: handprinted bags, cozy felted fingerless gloves, glass vases, pottery, prints, cards, tea bag angels, quirky clocks, handknit hats, and photographs in mats.

There are even songs. Here's a shot from Nate Drinkwater's recent opening of paintings, paired with a CD release party for Eastwave Radio. Rock on, Rudolf.

Gallery hours are:

Friday, December 18 4 - 6:30 PM.
December 19 - 24 Noon to 5 PM.

Stop in and meet the island elves that create magic just for you.

dark shadows

2009-10-24T12:40:00.000-07:00

The Gem Gallery opens a new show today. Come see it, if you dare.

The back room gallery looks like something out of the Addams Family stage set.

Weekend hours are 12 - 5 PM. Call 766-5600 for your fortune. An artists' reception will take place on Friday, October 30 from 5 - 8 PM. Spirits will abound.

But don't lose your head over it.

installation of warmth

2009-10-11T10:28:00.000-07:00

The environment created by Suzanne Parrott for her "Inside and Out" show at the Gem Gallery has to be seen and felt.

She painted a backdrop of a closet, a landscape with clothesline, and a floor for the various work on display, including vests, skirts, fingerless gloves, scarves, purses, and rugs. There's even a bowl of felt pieces and wool varieties for touching.

Here's a detail.

Suzanne will be manning the gallery both today and tomorrow from 12 - 5 and is happy to chat with you about her process, her inspirations, and anything you want to know about
living on an island.

She made this figure, named Lulu, inspired by a model whose haute couture strut made the runway sizzle in last spring's fashion show at Zero Station. Lulu's deciding what to wear.

All of Suzanne's pieces are one-of-a-kind garments. Some are restructured from t-shirts and printed with block designs made by Suzanne.

Tres chic!

inside and out

2009-10-09T04:29:00.000-07:00

Suzanne Parrott will be at the Gem Gallery this weekend, debuting her new fiber work.
Check it out!

one of a kind

2009-09-29T05:45:00.000-07:00

The Gem Gallery awaits the next solo show, "Inside and Out" with works by Suzanne Parrott, opening on Friday, October 9 at 5 PM.

Meanwhile, there are many unique items on display. These assemblages by Carol Cartier capture a certain bemused facade, resourceful and full of character, like islanders.

Martha Morris Gibson crafts these woven baskets with hand dyed reeds.

Diane Wiencke makes use of many materials, such as coins, wax, and pigment, which can be seen is this detail.

Here Tim Nihoff recycles playful plastic toys for this inspired twist on time. Money, too, gets a new context, with his painted additions.

A happy reminder that anytime is a good time to buy island art!

Visit on Saturdays and Sundays from (mostly) 12 - 5 PM. Call 766-5600 for more info.

fall finale

2009-09-14T11:34:00.000-07:00

This pastel, "Delta Grass" by Jamie Hogan will be among works on display in an autumn group show featuring over 20 island artists.

The Gem Gallery will resume fall hours, opening on Saturdays and Sundays from 12 - 5 PM.
The weather is still fine for browsing, biking, and buying local art.

island treasure

2009-09-04T14:55:00.000-07:00

The latest show opened at the Gem Gallery last night to a delighted crowd. Lavendier Myers is showing large and small oils and prints of favorite subjects such as colorful crows and dancing trees. This artist is a veteran of the Maine art scene, with collectors such as Deborah, an island resident who bought this painting by Lavendier years ago and redid her colors to match.

The Gem exhibit features scenes that evoke the Tuscan landscape, or perhaps a dreamscape with dancing trees. Lavendier grew up along the New England coast, but has lived all over the world. The work gyrates with color, energy, and inspired observations.

Jewelry artist Betsy Stout has shown her signature colorful beadwork in the front gallery all summer.

In the back gallery, alongside the paintings, she is showing these elegant pendants.

A newcomer, Christine Cassidy, joins the show with ethereal photographs that capture serene island moments. Her photographs are featured in the current Peaks Island Calendar, which can be found at the Peaks Cafe.

The show is up for only a week! Stop in and meet the artists, learn their methods and stories. Gallery hours: 11 AM - 5 PM daily. Call 766-2371 for more information.

trio of talents

2009-08-25T05:07:00.000-07:00

Another elegant show has been installed at the Gem Gallery. Printmaker and painter, Jane Banquer, joins the pair of potters extraordinaire, Rick Boyd and Pam Williamson. Here Jane chats during the opening evening.

Rick and Pam combine their strengths: he forms the clay, she glazes it.

Rick is a nurse anesthetist whose deft hands now create classically voluptuous vessels. Pam's background is in apparel marketing and product development. Each thrown form suggests a color to her, and she mixes her glazes from recipes, never knowing what will emerge from the kiln. That element of surprise and lack of total control keeps Rick and Pam searching, and firing, and praying to the Kiln God.

Many of their ceramic pieces are glazed in layers, such as this series that has the patina of a long lost Mayan treasure.

Jane Banquer brought a recently renewed enthusiasm for abandoned mediums to her current body of work on exhibit. For years, she worked as a printmaker, creating delicate etchings with an uncanny line and atmosphere. After a rejuvenating summer session in woodblock at Haystack, she has not picked up an etching-needle since. She has approached favorite subjects in both woodcut and paint, enjoying the translations. Here is a wonderfully detailed oil of some hens she chased around Monhegan last summer.

And a certain tree has fascinated her, here in a curvaceous woodcut, an achievement of muscle and magic.

These artists will participate in the upcoming Art Walk on August 29. Meanwhile, feel free to stop at the Gem and chat with them directly. The show runs through September 2.

habitats

2009-08-17T04:31:00.001-07:00

The opening of the current show, Habitats, was a bluesy buzz of islanders coming together to view the latest works by Claudia Whitman and Norm Proulx. These two are quite different in approach, yet their vision together is completely simpatico.

A statement on display reads in part, "Painting is about relationships. Every dot, line, or color, though it exists by itself, is seen in the context of how and where it is used. This show, though centered around two distinct themes is about habitats. It seeks to uncover both similarities in the energy that is created in a variety of visual fields. Its hope it to open up new possibilities for visual experience beyond the world we know."

This is a wall of Claudia's mixed media pieces. Claudia's passions are represented in visual emblems: a dove for peace, a horse for action. She layers these elements in and through her myriad collages that leap with color and surprising juxtapositions.

Here's a close up:

Norm's series of small paintings call us to another place, a home in the mind. A village of invented spaces that looks familiar somehow...

A Gem Gallery opening is always good for catching up. Here Gem Gallery founder, Jane Newkirk, announces her marriage to delighted friend, Diana.

Jane opened the Gem with owner Kristen Chalmers in 2003, but left Peaks Island two years ago to pursue other goals and dreams, leaving the gallery to run itself collectively. Over 25 of us are sharing the tasks of creating, hanging, promoting, gallery sitting, and selling, while Kristen pinch hits every show.

Island Times publisher, Kevin Attra, jazzes up the event with clarinetist, John Zemanek.

Habitats is on view through Tuesday, August 18. Monday and Tuesday hours this week are 2 - 5 PM. 62 Island Avenue, a short walk from the ferry landing on Peaks. Stop in!

Next up: Norm's partner, Jane Banquer will show her eloquent prints and paintings along with Rick Boyd and Pamela Williamson, potters extraordinaire. Scroll down past the last post for more information on their show. Opening reception is this Thursday, August 20.

amazing feats of nimble vision

2009-08-01T14:47:00.001-07:00

Step right up, folks! It's another new show at the Gem Gallery, this one a collaboration of Carol Cartier and Diane Wiencke, masters of style and daredevilish creations.

The opening was last Saturday evening and the show remains through August 5. Don't miss it! Carol and Diane made great use of the petite space, with small but diverse works of hand-made mysteries, such as this doll by Carol.

Here's another one, an acrobat of delicate proportions facing razor-sharp odds.

Carol recently signed up for a tinware class at MECA, only to see it cancelled. Did that stop her? She stomped over to the teacher's studio, and had herself a private hootenanny cuttin' up tin like a crazy quilter from Kentucky.

Both Carol and Diane love shape, bold color, pattern, all infused with meaning that meanders into the mind, a subtle contrast to all the visual.

Here is a wall of Diane's small works on paper, playing with the circus theme.

And a couple of close-ups:

She had a door full of "paper bag paintings" for the downright bargain of $50. each. You have to see them to love them. She says:

"These paintings are made of cut up paper bags. They are dipped in wax, then painted with plaster, sanded, scraped and painted with white out and ball point pen. Poetry pages are vintage and basically jumped onto the pages themselves."

Now that is an act of magic!

Step right up, folks! See island art at it's best. Creating something from just about nothing that swells your heart with beauty.

The previous show was incredible as well. Paul Brahms never ceases to amaze. He filled the gallery with liquid light, brushy paintings that capture moments of the day with nimble vision.

Paul is seen here, chatting with Deb Chase, avid collector of island art.

This study of a boy at play is full of love.

Nathanial Chalfant, a middle school student, added some of his driftwood sculptures to Paul's exhibit.

The weathered form makes a symbolic contrast to the still butterfly.

Magic, delight, and daring feats.

Step right up, folks!

2009-07-25T07:43:00.000-07:00

Ppp’s, Three Artists Fill the GEM Gallery with Pottery, Painting and Fine Prints

Between August 20 – September 2 potters Rick Boyd and Pamela Williamson and printmaker and painter, Jane Banquer join to fill display stands and walls with new and recent work. You are invited to the opening or to make a picnic day of island art along with walking and biking on village roads or rocky shore.

The exhibit features thrown pottery in elegant decorative and utilitarian forms with glazed surfaces that vary from subtle color and texture to a reflective metallic sheen and black and white and color reduction woodcut prints reinterpreting paintings in oil and acrylic. Visit the GEM Gallery at 62 Island Avenue, Peaks Island, 207-766-5600 or Pamela and Rick at 766-3050 and Jane at 766-2246. An opening reception is Thursday, August 20 with daily gallery hours 10 AM to 7 PM.

After 35 years as a potter Rick is still amazed with the process of transforming balls of clay into works of art. It's about centering the human body and making a connection with the clay. He works with a variety of clay bodies each with its own characteristic's and his energy and the feel of the clay defines the shape of the piece. Rick does the throwing and trimming and Pamela does the cleaning and glazing. This is a great collaboration as he admits to being somewhat colorblind and she is wheel challenged. Surface color is achieved by using various firing techniques and by using slips and glazes made in the studio on Peaks Island. Pottery is a marriage of art and science and he’s always looking for new techniques and advances while never forgetting the basics. Success sometimes comes from failure and circumstances beyond control, after all in the end it is the firing process and the Kiln God who retain final control of the piece.

Rick has refined his craft with courses at Vanderbilt University, Maine College of Art, Haystack Mountain School of Crafts and Warren Mackenzie at Red Lodge Clay Center, Montana and has served as visiting Artist at Nicolet College in Wisconsin. Rick and Pamela’s work has been shown at galleries and shows across the United States. He is a member of the American Ceramic Society Potters Council, National Council on Education for the Ceramic Arts and the Maine Crafts Association.

Jane Banquer studied at the DeCordova Museum, the Boston Museum School and at Smith College with Leonard Baskin and Amy Namowitz Worthen. She was a state juried member of the League of New Hampshire Craftsmen, where she served to set fine art print and photography standards and to review the work of new artist applicants for exhibition and sales throughout the state. She is represented by Addison Woolley Gallery, Portland, Maine and formerly by Wenniger Graphics, Boston, Rockport, and Cape Cod, MA, among others. Her work has been seen in juried exhibitions throughout the region and was included in the 2006 Maine Print Project.

Images in her painting, relief and intaglio prints are derived from the tangible world around her of human form, sea, land and creatures of her surroundings. As objects they’re both contained in natural and manipulated, reconstructed space.

summer shows begin

2009-07-10T05:14:00.000-07:00

The Gem Gallery has moved into it's summer season of wham bam shows: one or two week shows in the back gallery featuring one or more of the full-time members. Victor Romanyshyn's fabulous display of photographs came and went before I could blink. Or document them.

Currently in the gallery are a mother and daughter duo who visit the island every summer. Here is one of Chris (mom) Harper-Fahey's watercolors:

Her daughter, Dustine Price, has a bolder approach, working in several mediums: painted furniture, painting, assemblage. Between the two of them, they have the gallery covered.

Next up will be Paul Brahms, who will open his solo one-week exhibit of oil paintings on July 16. These two are already in the gallery. Love this funky car in front of a cabin. Many of Paul's paintings document his road travels.

The Gem Gallery is at 62 Island Avenue, left on Welch Street after you hike up from the ferry landing. Hours vary with each artist, but core hours (in a perfect world) are:

Monday to Wednesday: 10 AM - 3 PM
Thursday and Friday: 10 AM - 8 PM
Saturday and Sunday: 10 AM - 5 PM

Stop in, just to meet the artist of the moment and discover what islanders do between boats.

affordable art

2009-06-22T11:01:00.000-07:00

Thanks to the talents of Gem member, Paul Brahms, the gallery now features a lovely display cabinet. We moved up from a lucky pile of vintage crates to this white birch arrangement. Carol Cartier directed the new display, which shows off the affordable art from the last group show before the new Summer Season begins. Bravo, Paul!

Plenty of Peaksfesters stopped in to the gallery this past weekend, in search of bargains on locally crafted work and maps for the inaugural Art Walk and Wander for 2009.

Diane Wiencke sold some of her miniature delights, fluid abstractions.

Norm Proulx sold this energetic and powerful portrait of birches.

Fran Houston exhibited stunning photographs, such as this intimate view of a bemused turtle.

There was much more, but now the gallery gears up for a summer rotation of weekly shows.

Our artist/craftsperson cooperative includes over 25 year-round and seasonal individuals in the varied media of painting, drawing, glass, sculpture, pottery, jewelry, photography, printmaking, assemblage, fiber arts and writing. The gallery mission is to “share and sell fine art and contemporary crafts and to reach out and create an inviting, professional, friendly space that shares, educates, and celebrates art.”

SUMMER 2009 SHOW SCHEDULE:

6/25-7/1 Victor Romanyshyn, photography
7/2-7/8 Dustine Price and Chris Harper-Fahey, mother and daughter multi-media
7/16-7/22 Paul Brahms, painting
7/23-7/29 Diane Wiencke, painting
7/30-8/5 Carol Cartier, multi media
8/6-8/19 Norm Proulx and Claudia Whitman, multi media
8/20-9/2 Pam Williamson, Rick Boyd, Jane Banquer, pottery, prints, painting
9/3-9/9 Lavendier-Myers, painting
10/9-10/15 Suzanne Parrott, fiber arts

SUMMER CORE HOURS*:

Mon. – Wed. 10 AM – 3 PM
Thur./Fr.i 10 AM – 8 PM
Sat./Sun. 10 AM – 5 PM

*Some artists may extend these core hours. Reception nights are Thursdays, but may vary.

Keep checking back for the latest in island art!

welcome Michelle!

2009-06-08T19:28:00.000-07:00

Our newest member, Michelle Estell, debuted her very fresh jewelry and beadwork at the Gem Gallery this past weekend. Michelle is also known as Beadalicious, which aptly describes the luscious nature of her designs. She used this curvy octopus as a signature tile for the show.

This was a fun still life of adornments.

Jocelyn and Dani happily modeled her necklaces, earrings, and hairclips. Gorgeous!

Michelle creates original looks from vintage fabric scraps, handmade beads, silver, leather, and unexpected combinations.

Next up for the Gem: the Affordable Art show. Everything $125. and under. For all those first-time buyers of art or those in need of a bargain, this show is for you.

Members of this Maine island collective will be on hand in the gallery, so do drop in.

Check for ferry times!

new shows new look

2009-06-03T04:45:00.000-07:00

Things are moving full speed ahead. The gallery has been thawed, refreshed, and rehung. The working clock/assemblage below is by Tim Nihoff, master of playful works in rusted objects and plastic repurposing. We have a saying around here, what goes around, comes around.

Our youngest Gem collective member, high schooler Connor Flynn, has recently moved from bowls to vases. Bravo!

We specialize in variety: glass, felted wool, ceramics, pastel, oils, photography, watercolor, printmaking, jewelry, encaustic. Spare parts, flotsam, jetsam... we make art from what the tides wash up, or the latest yard sale yields, or whatever the moon pulls from our dreams.

Small painting on the left by Norm Proulx, larger painting on the right by Lavendier Myers.

This is Kristen, our intrepid gallery host, who gave up two rooms of her house to create a venue for island artists. As a veteran preschool teacher, she is equipped to deal with our crazy collective.

We are still in pre-season mode: upcoming show this weeknd with new member,
Michelle Estell. Her opening reception is this Friday night, June 5 from 6 - 8 PM.

Hours: Saturday and Sunday Noon - 5 PM. The Gem Gallery is at 62 Island Avenue, a left up the hill from the boat landing, past the ice cream store, but before the post office.

Come look!

Here we go again!

2009-05-06T17:34:00.000-07:00

We are fiddling with our blog presence. As an artists' collective, we can't seem to come to a concrete consensus on a good address name. You know, image is everything. We're at the Island Inn, spilling wine, writing ambitious lists, and generally enjoying the profile of artists with a plan.

The above image is a mixed media piece by Carol Cartier, who has a way with whales, bones, skulls, pick your fancy. She makes magic with found bits, sacred and profane. I think it's the juxtaposition of whales that are really soles thrown up on the beach that makes me conjure up the Gem Gallery. In a good way, honest!

The Gem Gallery is a cooperative of 26 artists living and working on Peaks Island.
That's the amazing part. In these spotty times, we are a crusty lot, ever hopeful, ever resourceful. We do art whether you notice or not. We can't help ourselves. It's as inevitable as the next tide.

We work in a variety of media: painting, drawing, sculpture, printmaking, assemblage, fiber arts, music, writing, jewelry, ceramics, and glass. Our mission is to share and sell fine art and contemporary crafts, and to reach out and create an inviting, professional, and accessible space that celebrates art.

We have a fantastic calendar of weekly shows that will begin in late June. But first,
we are closing out our spring show, Thaw.

The show is still up, in a refreshed form, as some pieces sold and some have been replaced with new work. (Like I said: we can't help ourselves.)

The Gem Gallery, located at 62 Island Avenue on lovely Peaks Island, Maine is open right now (off-season, it's called)on Saturdays and Sundays from noon - 5 PM. The gallery is staffed by any one of us. Come visit. Ask us how we work, how do we get through the bitter winters, how do we keep being creative against all odds?

It helps us to talk about it. Sometimes.

Stay tuned for more details. Or call the gallery at 207-766-5600. Or make a comment right here!