Peter Abate's Art & Antiques

Peter Abate has always been inspired by his love of architecture and design. He works with watercolor and ink in a variety of subjects and styles. Recently he has been working with geometric/abstract designs re-visiting his earlier appreciation of detail and line, while exploring new directions with composition, color and form.

Living in Maine since 1999 has had a profound effect on the direction of his art and related interests. Peter’s work is his diary. Every piece represents a significant moment and its influence. The artist developed his early skills under the direction of Ruth Sparks of Lynn, Massachusetts, and then later at Franconia College in New Hampshire. He has also worked with Winchester, Massachusetts painter Mary Ellen Conway.

Although Peter is known for his watercolors, a popular favorite is his fascinating collaged assemblage mixing vintage magazine advertisements with antique hardware:

Peter Abate is originally from Lynn, Massachusetts and now resides in West Newfield, Maine. In addition to painting and curating all of The Art Group's shows, Peter collects antiques and architectural salvage. His barn is full of amazing stuff! Check out his web site to see more. . .

Paintings by Ron Harrison Honored

Ron Harrison was honored by U.S. Coast Guard's First District at ceremonies at the Hospital Point Lighthouse in Beverly, Massachusetts which is the official residence of the Admiral. The honor was for his watercolor painting of the lighthouse which now becomes the permanent property of the residence. Ron is an official U.S. Coast Guard artist.

Ron also won the prestigious Lucy Clark Winant ribbon at the Swampscott Art Association's spring show at Marian Court College for his watercolor, "Still Sleepy." Ron has won ribbons at the last three Marian Court shows.

Pictured above is Ron's watercolor titled "Hospital Point Lighthouse."

Random Acts of Photography

The photography of brothers Keith and Kevin Carnevale will be on display at the Ossipee Public Library in Ossipee, New Hampshire during the month of May 2009. Contact Kevin for more information.

Willowbrook "Art for the Barn" Show

The Durgin Barns are the centerpiece of historic Willowbrook Museum in Newfield Maine. The barns date from the mid 1800’s and are on the National Register of Historic Places. The barns have served many purposes over the years including a public livery stable and grain store. The barns also played a vital community role where dances, lodge meetings, traveling shows, theatre and church suppers were held. The “Art for the Barn” fundraiser effort hopes to raise money to help with planned restoration projects, while highlighting the beauty and architecture of barns through various art mediums.

A juried art show will be held throughtout July, August, and September 2009. Artists of all ages producing work in all mediums are invited to submit. Each work must focus on "The Barn" as a theme. More information>

Art Fundraiser at the Gafney - July 2009

This season's Art at the Gafney fundraiser continues a summer tradition that has been very popular for library patrons and local artists. All members of The Art Group are invited to participate in this July 2009 event.

The Gafney Library is located at 14 High Street in Sanbornville, New Hampshire. It houses a circulating collection of books and reading materials for children and adults, as well as movies, music, and book audiotapes. The library also functions as a community center, providing access to technology, programs for children, literacy and adult education and GED preparation.

The Gafney Library has been showcasing individual and group art shows for many years while supporting artists in the local community and surrounding areas, including artists from Maine and Massachusetts. Please consider sharing and showing your art to help support this worthwhile cause. More information>

Flower - Power at the Gafney

This month at the Gafney Library, the watercolors, etchings and monotypes by Barbara Bradley Rutz are on display. Her Sunflowers, Trilliums, Nasturtiums, Gerberas, Ferns, Tulips and Queen Ann's Lace are not to be missed!

Meet the artist on Tuesday May 12th from 5-7. Contact Barbara for more information.