Artists of the Forest on view May 15 – August 11
Monson Arts opened a new exhibit on May 15th at its gallery in downtown Monson. Artists of the Forest, curated by folklorist Kathleen Mundell, features the work of six artists from Maine’s Northern Forest who work with one of the region’s most abundant resources- wood.
“These woods are home to a group of remarkable craftsmen,” writes Mundell. “Whether shaping snowshoes, making furniture or weaving pack baskets, each artfully balances their skills and experience with traditional knowledge, keeping alive a vital part of this region’s cultural heritage.”
Gabriel Frey
Among works included in the exhibit are examples of new furniture produced by John Wentworth whose family owned and operated Moosehead Manufacturing in Monson and Passamaquoddy basketmaker Gabriel Frey who was recently awarded a United States Artist Fellowship. The show also features work by woodcarver Tom Cote from Limestone, craftsman and trapper Bill Mackowski, snowshoe maker Brian Theriault from Fort Kent, and former logger and furniture maker Melvin Roy.
Tom Cote
Artists of the Forest will be on view at the Monson Arts gallery through August 11. Two days of artist demonstrations will be held at the gallery in conjunction with the exhibit on June 1 for Nosin’ Round Monson Day and July 20 during Monson’s Summerfest. There will also be opening receptions from 4-6PM on these days. Gallery hours are Thursday-Sunday, 10AM-4PM through October 28.
‘Bucking Firewood’ (detail) by Tom Cote, photo by Peter Dembski
Time and space to create.
Monson Arts is a new artists’ residency and arts center in Monson, Maine. Programs include residencies for artists and writers, intensive shorter workshops, and educational partnerships with area secondary schools.