UNE Art Gallery in Portland presents ‘Pastels Only’ exhibition

"A Peaceful Place" by Claudette Gamache
"A Peaceful Place" by Claudette Gamache

The UNE Art Gallery, Portland Campus, is pleased to announce its next exhibition, Pastels Only, the 17th Annual International Juried Exhibition of the Pastel Painters of Maine, which will be mounted from October 15, 2016, through January 7, 2017.

This annual juried exhibition features work by 37 artists from all over the country.  Up to $5,000 in prizes will be awarded for outstanding new work.  The works have been selected by Casey Klahn, a Reardon, Washington pastelist, nationally known for his vibrant use of color.  Klahn will also serve as Awards Juror.

There will be an Opening Reception on Saturday, October 15, from 3 to 5 p.m.  Klahn will offer an Art Lecture, "Color as Content!" from 1 to 2:30 p.m.  Presentation of the Awards will take place at 4 p.m.

During the run of the show there will be two additional educational programs:

October 20: A Demonstration of Pastels by Pastelist Claudette Gamache, Pastel Society of America signature member and International Association of Pastel Society master circle member (IAPS/MC), 5-6:30 p.m.  She will discuss the importance of a special place for artistic inspiration.

December 8:  Gallery Panel Conversation, "Why Pastels," 5-6:30 p.m.  Panelists include Kathleen Galligan, PSA signature member, Jacob Aguiar, PSA signature member, Christine Bodnar, IAPS/MC, Kate Bergquist, PSA signature member, Anastasia Gatto, Jeanne Smith-Cripp and Anthony Muench.  Most of these artists have works in the exhibition.

The Art Gallery is open to the public, and the exhibition is free of charge.  Hours of operation are Wed, Fri, Sat and Sun, noon – 5 p.m.; Thurs, noon – 7 p.m.; and by appointment. FMI 207-221-4499.