A new exhibition featuring veteran artists Doug Houle, Susan Tilton Pecora and Kimberly Skillin Traina opens at the Damariscotta River Grill on August 19. Three different styles and mediums explore a range of themes, each capturing a unique perspective on Maine’s natural beauty. The opening celebration of “Art at the Grill” will be Thursday, August 22, and the artwork will be on display through October 28.
Doug Houle lives in Jefferson and has been traveling northern New England for 29 years. He focuses on the buildings and landscapes, shipyards and docks of New England, using light and color to create dramatic images. “I want my paintings to highlight the architecture and life of small town New England. I am drawn to the charm and nostalgia of old houses and barns, storefronts, lighthouses and shipyards. Whether these places are frequented or just visited for a short time, they surround the people of a town and honor their historical importance to our communities. Light and color are critical to these pieces. I work primarily with oil paints and allow the underlayer of my painting to show through the planes and edges, which helps to create a certain interest in the surrounding work. Objects absorb and reflect all kinds of colors and the way these are manipulated affects the mood.”
Susan Tilton Pecora grew up in Marblehead, Massachusetts. It was in this coastal community that she learned to appreciate the quality of light and the beauty of New England, and she has been painting New England streets and seaports since she was a child. “I have been painting New England harbors, farms, and factory towns since I was a child,” she said. “I have been making my living as an artist for over 40 years. I work in watercolor, egg tempera, and oil. My paintings begin with a pencil or ink sketch, followed by a watercolor or oil underpainting on location. I finish the work in my studio.” Susan exhibits and sells her work in galleries and art societies across the country and is a registered member of the New England Watercolor Society.
Kimberly Skillin Traina is a graphic designer, photographer and pastel artist living in Edgecomb. Ten years on Peaks Island sparked her love of islands. Kim uses the pure pigments of soft pastels and her fingers to apply many colors to an underpainting, creating depth and luminosity. Both her pastels and new oil works are a spiritual interpretation of nature, light and atmosphere through their depiction of sky, clouds, islands, reflections, water and waves. “Through art, I give meaning to and honor my challenges and joys in this life. I love being outside, connecting with nature, creating in my studio, losing all sense of time and place. Whether I’m painting en plein air or from a photograph, the end result always tells its own story and conveys my passion for this beautiful place I call home.”
A special three-course prix fixe meal with a choice of wine pairings will be offered on August 22. Alternatively, choose a dish from the menu and celebrate the artists from 4:00 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. A portion of the dinner proceeds will go to fund a scholarship for a Lincoln Academy student pursuing an art education. Please call ahead to make a reservation.
