Summer is here, and we are so excited to see both indoor and outdoor spaces brought to life with music, art-making, film, and fun.
This July 7–16, for the first time ever, the Maine International Film Festival will take place under one roof at the Paul J. Schupf Art Center. We are thrilled to bring all the excitement of this signature event to the heart of downtown. Whether you go to two films or 20, we look forward to welcoming you to MIFF26!
It wouldn’t be summer without Waterville Rocks, our free concert series at Head of Falls, which will once again kick off on the opening night of MIFF. We can’t wait to see our beautiful waterfront filled with families and friends sharing a festive evening under the open sky.
Our free, family-friendly Art in the Park series is back in the park, literally—in Castonguay Square, that is—on Thursdays from 3–5pm. Presented in partnership with the Colby College Museum of Art and the Waterville Public Library, Art in the Park offers a variety of fun drop-in arts activities for all ages.
And you won’t want to miss the newly launched 2023 First Friday series, presented in collaboration with arts and business partners. Visit downtown on the first Friday of each month to meet artists, see performances, tour artist studios, listen to live music, eat delicious food, shop at local businesses, and come together as a community.
On behalf of all of us here at Waterville Creates, we hope to see you soon and often!
Shannon Haines President + CEO
Patricia King Vice President
Maine Film Center Executive Director
Michelle Sweet Waterville Opera House Executive Director
Whether
Waterville Creates members enjoy special benefits at the Maine Film Center, Waterville Opera House, and Ticonic Gallery + Studios Member benefits range from discounted admissions and advance ticket purchasing opportunities to free popcorn and merchandise. A selection of gifts from our partners at the Waterville Public Library and the Colby College Museum of Art are offered at all levels.
Every membership directly supports our film, visual and performing arts, and education programs and helps to build a community where all people can enjoy transformative experiences in the arts.
For more information, visit watervillecreates.org/membership or inquire at the Ed Harris Box Office.
Paul J. Schupf Art Center
93 Main Street
Waterville, Maine 04901
207.873.7000
Ed Harris Box Office: Open daily, 11am–7pm* Galleries: Open daily, 11am–7pm*; closed Tuesdays and federal holidays
*Hours may vary for special events
Waterville Creates is committed to ensuring that the Paul J. Schupf Art Center and Waterville Opera House are welcoming places for all. We expect our visitors, volunteers, and staff to recognize and honor one another with dignity and respect. We have a zero tolerance policy regarding any acts of harassment or harmful behavior.
All street-level entrances to the Paul J. Schupf Art Center are wheelchair accessible, and the primary box office door, located under the ARTS sign, is equipped with push buttons. The Maine Film Center’s screening rooms and sky bridge to the Waterville Opera House are accessible by elevator. Designated wheelchair seating is available in all three film screening rooms as well as the orchestra level of the Waterville Opera House, and wheelchairs are available upon request at the Ed Harris Box Office. Assisted listening devices are available at the Maine Film Center and the Waterville Opera House. For more information on accessibility or to request accommodations, please call 207.873.7000 or e-mail access@watervillecreates.org.
Waterville Creates believes that all youth, regardless of income, ability, or background, should have access to outstanding arts programming and arts education opportunities. In an effort to remove cost as a barrier to participation, we have created a dedicated fund to support free admission for youth ages 18 and under to the full range of programming offered by Waterville Creates and its divisions, including art classes and camps, community theatre productions, live music, and film programming. Please visit the Ed Harris Box Office or call 207.873.7000 to access YAAF funds.
We are building a thriving, connected, and equitable community through shared experiences in the arts. By presenting arts programming by, with, and for our community, we promote growth and well-being.
We recognize the vital role creative expression plays in a fulfilled life and a vibrant community, nurture individual artistic endeavors at all levels, and encourage all creative outlets.
We connect and work with creatives, arts and cultural organizations, and other strategic partners to energize and enrich our community through the arts.
We support, encourage, and honor diverse stories and perspectives. We provide relevant, accessible programming while making space for community conversations that deepen understanding and foster discourse around critical issues of our time.
Whether you’re starting your first job or retiring from your last, we understand that every financial situation is different ... just like the people we serve.
We invite you to experience the difference.
ART IN THE PARK
Thursdays, June 15–August 17, 3–5pm; Free Castonguay Square, Waterville*
Summer in Waterville = Art in the Park! Presented in partnership with the Waterville Public Library and the Colby College Museum of Art, Art in the Park offers guided, outdoor art-making activities for all ages in a relaxed setting. Each Thursday, participants will create works inspired by the Library’s summer reading theme, All Together Now: Todos Juntos, with activities focused on unity, kindness, and togetherness. *In the event of heavy rain or extreme heat, Art in the Park activities will move to the Paul J. Schupf Art Center.
ART ROCKS! (AT WATERVILLE ROCKS)
Fridays, July 21, 28 + August 4, 6–8pm; Free Head of Falls, Waterville
Make art while you rock out! Join Waterville Creates for drop-in art-making while you get your groove on at Waterville Rocks
VOLUNTEER ORIENTATION
September 7, 5:30–7pm; Free Paul J. Schupf Art Center
Interested in joining the Waterville Creates volunteer corps? Learn about all the unique opportunities and special benefits at this orientation event. Visit watervillecreates.org/volunteer for more information.
PETER YARROW + NOEL PAUL STOOKEY
Saturday, July 1, 8pm; Tickets: $58–$68
“Peter, Paul and Mary are folk singers.” So stated the liner notes to the group’s self-titled 1962 debut album. Today, this declaration seems redundant, because the term “folk music” has come to be virtually interchangeable with the group name.
THE HIGH KINGS
Sunday, July 23, 8pm; Tickets: $28–$38
Back by popular demand! In their time together, The High Kings have charted across the world and performed for hundreds of thousands of fans. They continue to set the bar extremely high for Irish folk bands across the world.
AN EVENING WITH DAVID SEDARIS
Thursday, July 27, 7:30pm; Tickets: $53–$63
A unique opportunity to see the best-selling humorist in an intimate setting. As always, Sedaris will be offering a selection of all-new readings and recollections, as well as a Q&A session and book signing.
THE WALLFLOWERS
Tuesday, August 1, 8pm; Tickets: $53–$63
For the past 30 years, the Jakob Dylan-led act has stood as one of rock’s most dynamic and purposeful bands. Their signature style meshes timeless songwriting and storytelling with a hard-hitting and decidedly modern musical attack.
MATISYAHU + G. LOVE + SPECIAL SAUCE
SPECIAL GUEST: CYDEWAYS
Wednesday, August 9, 7pm; Tickets: $54–$59
G. Love has solidified his place in music history as a genre-bending pioneer with a sound The New York Times described as “a new and urgent hybrid” + NPR has called a “musical melting pot.”
AGATHA CHRISTIE’S MURDER ON THE ORIENT EXPRESS
September 1, 2, 8, 9, 7:30pm + September 3, 10, 2pm; Tickets: $24–$26
Ken Ludwig’s clever adaptation of the Agatha Christie classic boasts all the glamour, intrigue, and suspense of Dame Agatha’s celebrated novel, with a healthy dose of humor to quicken the pace.
Presented by arrangement with Concord Theatricals on behalf of Samuel French, Inc. concordtheatricals.com
START MAKING SENSE
Friday, September 15, 8pm; Tickets: $23–$28
If David Byrne is one of the geniuses of modern times, then Start Making Sense is a tribute to genius. The musicians in this 7-10 piece Talking Heads Tribute take pride in faithfully recreating the music of Talking Heads’ entire career.
Sunday, September 17, 7:30pm; Tickets: $38–$48
A unique multi-media entertainment event featuring the live music of Ricky Nelson’s hit songs (including “Hello Mary Lou,” “Travelin’ Man,” and “Garden Party”) performed by Ricky’s own twin sons, Matthew and Gunnar.
ANI DIFRANCO
Tuesday, September 19, 7:30pm; Tickets: $48–$63
Widely considered a feminist icon, Grammy winner Ani DiFranco is the mother of the DIY movement and one of the first artists to create her own record label in 1990. While she has been known as the “Little Folksinger,” her music has embraced punk, funk, hip hop, jazz, soul, electronica, and even more distant sounds.
Theatre Camp includes auditions and rehearsals which provide children with the opportunity to learn about the theatrical process. The week ends with a musical production that is open to the public.
Camp: Monday, July 24–Saturday, July 29; $175
Performance: Saturday, July 29, 12pm; Tickets: $8–$10
Welcome to Ancient Greece—the Olympic Games are starting soon, but the tournament can’t start without Hercules. Will the legendary strongman spark the flame and start the festivities on time or will his tardiness get in the way?
RAPUNZEL
Camp: Monday, July 31–Saturday, August 5; $175
Performance: Saturday, August 5, 12pm; Tickets: $8–$10
This story takes you on a frivolous frolic through the French countryside. Join Rapunzel and a wild cast of zany characters–including Unicorns, Ogres, and Gremlins, oh my!–for a silly tale of personal triumph and friendship.
Free summer music series at Head of Falls, Front Street. Concert grounds and beer garden open at 6pm. In the event of inclement weather, concerts will move to the Waterville Opera House.
Friday, July 7, 7pm
Performing original songs as well as classics of The Band, The Weight Band is led by Jim Weider, a 15-year former member of The Band and the Levon Helm Band. Opening Act: Chris Ross
Friday, July 21, 7pm
After spending years on the road, selling out hometown shows at LA’s famed Troubadour and headlining festivals, Dustbowl Revival never stopped making their joyful, booty-shaking soul songs and cut-to-heart folk-rock ballads that lift up their transcendent live shows.
Friday, July 28, 7pm
Showcasing his skills as a multi-instrumentalist, Evans displays technical mastery of live-looping in his shows that include the didgeridoo, ‘hand pan’ drum, percussive beatboxing, acoustic guitar, and layers of soulful vocals.
Friday, August 4, 7pm
Living somewhere in-between modern catharsis and American myth, Griffin William Sherry’s roots continue to grow strong in the ever-evolving genres of folk, Americana, and rock & roll. In 2011, he co-founded the independent band The Ghost of Paul Revere.
Theatrical productions, presented on-screen at MFC.
Tickets: adults: $16 members: $13.75 seniors, students, and military: $14.50 children (12 + under): $13.50
Saturday, August 5, 12pm
In 1968 America, as two men fight to become the next president, all eyes are on the battle between two others: the cunningly conservative William F. Buckley Jr. and the unruly liberal Gore Vidal. During a new nightly television format, they debate the moral landscape of a shattered nation. As beliefs are challenged and slurs slung, a new frontier in American politics is opening, and television news is about to be transformed forever.
Friday, September 1, 6:45pm
Fleabag may seem oversexed, emotionally unfiltered, and selfobsessed, but that’s just the tip of the iceberg. With family and friendships under strain and a guinea pig café struggling to keep afloat, Fleabag suddenly finds herself with nothing to lose.
PROGRAMS, TICKETS, PASSES:
SUMMER TEEN CLAY OPEN STUDIO (AGES 13-16)
June 20 + July 11, 1–3pm; $60
In the first session of this two-part open studio, students will make wheel-thrown vessels and explore a hand-building project. In the second session, students will learn how to glaze their pieces with simple surface design techniques. Each aspiring artist will be encouraged to find their own unique approach to clay in a supportive environment. Healthy snacks provided. Tools, glazes, firings, and all other materials are included.
BEGINNING CLAY: INTRODUCTION TO WHEEL-THROWING
$175 per session
In these 6-week sessions, participants learn the basics of shaping, trimming, glazing, and more in a fun and supportive environment. Tools, materials, 25-pound bag of clay, glazes, firings, and studio access are included with class registration.
SESSION 1
SESSION 2
Wednesdays, June 21–July 26, 5:30–7pm
Wednesdays, September 6–October 11, 1:30–3pm
KIDS SUMMER CLAY CAMPS (AGES 8-12)
Weeklong Camp: July 17–21, 9–12pm; $175
“Mini” Camp: August 14–16, 9–12pm; $110
These hands-on camps provide the opportunity for young artists and makers to learn basic clay techniques, including wheelthrowing, hand-building, coiling, and pinch pot creation. No prior clay experience necessary and all levels of expertise and ability are welcome. Tools, glazes, firings, and all other materials are included.
TEEN CLAY CLUB (AGES 13–16)
September 7 + 21, 3–5pm; $30 per session
In this bi-monthly exploration of clay, students will learn wheelthrowing, hand-building, glazing, surface design, and more! Each young artist will be encouraged to independently find their own unique approach to clay in a supportive environment. Healthy snacks provided. Tools, glazes, firings, and all other materials are included.
BEGINNING CLAY: HAND-BUILDING
Thursdays, September 28–November 2, 5:30–7pm, $175
Join instructor Pam Wilcox for a six-week introduction to handbuilding, including sculptural projects such as fairies, gnomes, garden decorations, slab-built mugs with handles, and much more. Students will learn how to make connections by scoring and slipping the clay and will have the opportunity to explore the tools and equipment in the clay studio.
Clay studio memberships are available for ceramic artists who can work without supervision. Membership includes access to the studio, tools, glazes, use of pottery wheels, and kiln firings. The Studio is equipped with 3 kilns, 8 wheels, a slab roller, and a full complement of materials and glazes.
All clay used in the Ticonic Clay Studio must be purchased through Waterville Creates. Access to the studio is available 24 hours a day and seven days a week. Clay members must be at least 18 years old.
Membership Fee: $130/month; $350/3 months ($40 discount)
25-pound bag of clay: $30
To learn more, contact:
Yvonne Brown, Clay Studio Coordinator, ybrown@watervillecreates.org
INTRODUCTION TO 3D PRINTING
$35 per session
Learn about TinkerCAD, Thingiverse, and 3D printers, see what filament colors are available, and imagine the possibilities they hold. From toys to jewelry to replacement parts to game pieces and so much more, this workshop will get you started..
SESSION 1
SESSION 2
Wednesday, August 9, 10–11:30am
Wednesday, August 23, 1–2:30pm
3D PRINTING FOR BEGINNERS
Thursday, September 14, 21, 28, October 5, 5:30–7pm; $110
In this 4-week class, learn to use a 3D printer, become familiar with 3D software, learn how to “slice” pre-existing models, and how to design your own model. Led by instructor Stephen LaRochelle of Kennebec Valley Community College. Ages 10-16 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian.
GENTLE MOVEMENT
Sunday, July 9, 10–11am; Free Studio 1902
Join collaborative dance maker and artist Matthew Cumbie to stretch and move before a long day of movies! All ages and levels welcome.
DROP-IN PRINTMAKING
Wednesday, July 12, 10am–12pm; Free Hinge Collaborative, 5 Silver Street
Make and create at Hinge Collaborative, Waterville’s communitybased printmaking studio and gallery. Located within walking distance of the Paul J. Schupf Art Center.
MAKE YOUR OWN MIFF MUG
Monday, July 10, 1–3pm + Wednesday, July 12, 7–9pm
$20 suggested donation
Ticonic Clay Studio
Using underglaze decals, design your own MIFF/Maine-themed mug as a unique souvenir of this year’s film festival. Mugs will be ready for pick-up on Friday, July 14.
COMMUNITY DRAW
September 13, 6–8pm; $10, Studio 1902
Seasoned and aspiring artists are invited to participate in this costumed figure drawing workshop. Costumes provided courtesy of the Waterville Opera House. Participants bring their media of choice: charcoal, pastels, paint, clay. Begin with a drawing warm-up exercise, followed by timed, open-drawing sessions.
The following programs are offered in conjunction with the Potluck exhibition on display in Ticonic Gallery, on view from August 2–October 3.
VEGETABLE PRINT TEA TOWEL
Friday, August 4, 4–7pm; Free
Ticonic Classroom
Print a colorful tea towel using local fruits and vegetables.
STILL LIFE DRAWING
$35 per session; Ticonic Gallery
Capture the abundance of a communal table with still life drawing.
SESSION 1
SESSION 2
Wednesday, August 16, 6–8pm
Wednesday, September 27, 6–8pm
PRINT + CAST YOUR GARDEN
Saturday, September 30, 9am–12pm; $60
Ticonic Classroom
Preserve the favorite parts of your garden with plaster casting and gelatin prints in this two-part workshop. Bring your favorite botanicals, either fresh or dried, and turn them into art you can enjoy year-round.
COMMUNITY POTLUCK
Saturday, September 9, 5–7pm
$20 suggested donation for local food pantry; Castonguay Square Experience a true potluck through a shared meal and conversation. Gather with friends and community members and bring food to share for a truly magical night. Pre-registration is required.
THE GREAT STATE OF ILLUSTRATION IN MAINE
April 17–July 16, 2023
Curated by the Illustration Institute, The Great State of Illustration in Maine showcases the past, present, and future of illustration in our state, representing history and contemporary culture through narrative imagery. By viewing historic work alongside contemporary illustration, visitors will experience the breadth and depth in narrative art and gain a further appreciation for the enduring, beautiful work created in the state we call home. Featured artists include Barbara Cooney, Lucky Platt, Daniel Minter, Rockwell Kent, Dahlov Ipcar, Bruce Hutchison, Edward Hopper, and more. Image: Rockwell Kent, Illustration from Moby Dick by Herman Melville, 1930
POTLUCK
August 2–October 3, 2023
Ticonic Gallery is pleased to present Potluck, an evolving exhibition centered on the work of Jenny Ibsen, a relief printmaker, ceramicist, storyteller, and restaurant worker based in Portland. Staged around a table, the installation is rooted in the concept of a communal meal, and Ibsen and independent curator Diana Tuite will invite guest collaborators to contribute to this environment of abundance. The metaphor of the potluck touches upon issues of care, sustenance and sustainability, and labor, all of which can be explored through shared meals and conversations.
Image: Jenny Ibsen, Sumac Harvest, 2022, terracotta
OYSTER BY RYAN KOHLER
July 18–September 25, 2023
Maine Film Center Lobby
Ryan Kohler’s Oyster was inspired by a honeymoon trip to New York City. The city has since become one of Ryan’s favorite subjects to paint. The anonymity of his figures against the vast, energetic cityscape, allows the viewer to immerse themself in this work.
Image: Ryan Kohler, Oyster, 2023, mixed media on canvas
Potluck
Vegetable
It’s not a film reel. It’s a time machine.
Making art centers us. It calms us. It helps us to see the beauty in our world. It helps us to find the beauty in ourselves. It’s why we believe art should be experienced by everyone.
watervillecreates.org
Morning Sentinel staff photojournalist Michael G. Seamans has been recognized as a finalist for photographer of the year by Pictures of the Year, International, which is a prestigious competition with others finalists from the Washington Post and San Francisco Chronicle. This award was for his coverage of central Maine for the Morning Sentinel/ Kennebec Journal but also includes other projects. Michael, one of our staff photographers for the past 10 years, has also been named the photographer of the year in the New England region by the National Press Photographers Association for the last four years in a row.
207-872-7650
143 Silver Street, Waterville, ME 04901 www.cbplourde.com
Each office is independently owned & operated.
DOWNTOWN WATERVILLE
FIRST FRIDAY
July 7, August, 4, September 1; Free; Various times + locations
Celebrate the vibrant creativity in Waterville through a wide array of arts experiences. On the first Friday of every month, visit downtown Waterville to meet artists, see performances, listen to live music, eat delicious food, shop at local businesses, enjoy the arts, and come together as a community.
WATERVILLE PUBLIC LIBRARY
EARTH JAMS! A CONCERT WITH MATT LOOSIGAN
Wednesday, August 9, 2–3pm
Waterville Public Library, 73 Elm Street
Matt is a folk singer/guitarist specializing in playful, funny songs about ecology and being green. Join him as he works his musical magic in this interactive and fun music show. Inspired by Matt’s incredibly dynamic voice and charismatic performance style, participants will sing, play, and dance along as this musical wizard pulls giggles out of his guitar. For children ages 10 and under and their caregivers.
“ALL TOGETHER NOW” 2023 SUMMER READING PROGRAM
June 18–August 13; Open to all ages + abilities
Waterville Public Library, 73 Elm Street
Reading is its own reward, but you can also earn prizes by participating in the Waterville Public Library’s summer reading program. Simply record the minutes you spend reading or being read to—graphic novels, newspapers, magazines, books, e-books, or audio books all count!—and earn rewards. For more information visit watervillelibrary.org.
FAMILY STORYTIME: SHAKESPEARE FOR LITTLES
Saturday, August 12, 1:30–2:15 pm
Waterville Public Library, 73 Elm Street
Merriment for all ages! Come enjoy Shakespeare Stories from our community friends the Recycled Shakespeare Company.
LUNDER INSTITUTE OF AMERICAN ART SUMMER FELLOWS PARTY
Friday, July 7, 6–8 pm; Free Greene Block + Studios, 18 Main Street
All are welcome to join Lunder Institute for American Art summer fellows and senior fellow Paula Wilson for a party featuring Central Maine’s premiere DJs. Hosted by the Lunder Institute and Colby’s Arts Office. Wilson’s work is on view in Ashley Bryan/Paula Wilson: Take the World into Your Arms through July 17 at the Joan Dignam Schmaltz Gallery of Art, Paul J. Schupf Art Center.
SELF-PORTRAIT AS HOMESTEAD: JERI THERIAULT BOOK LAUNCH
Friday, August 4, 5–7pm; Free Greene Block + Studios, 18 Main Street
A Franco-American poet, Jeri Theriault grew up in Waterville, Maine and graduated from Colby College, later earning her MFA from Vermont College of Fine Arts. Her poems and reviews appear in The Rumpus, The Texas Review, The Atlanta Review, Asheville Poetry Review, Plume, and many other publications. Join us for this special First Friday event, where Jeri will be reading from her new book and discussing the themes of family, heritage, and growing up in the South End neighborhood.
SEPTEMBER FIRST FRIDAY JAZZ CONCERT
Friday, September 1, 5–7pm; Free Greene Block + Studios, 18 Main Street
Drop by for a free jazz concert featuring the hottest combos on the east coast.
ASHLEY BRYAN DAY: CAKE, CONVERSATION, AND JELLYBEANS
Thursday, July 13, 11am–12pm
Paul J. Schupf Art Center, 93 Main Street
Established in 2020 by Governor Janet Mills, July 13 has officially been declared Ashley Frederick Bryan Day in the state of Maine. To celebrate, join us for cake, conversation, and one of Ashley Bryan’s favorite treats—jellybeans. Take some time to enjoy works by Bryan on display in the two current exhibitions at the Paul J. Schupf Art Center: Ashley Bryan/Paula Wilson: Take the World into Your Arms, on view through July 31 at the Joan Dignam Schmaltz Gallery of Art, and The Great State of Illustration in Maine, on view through July 16 at Ticonic Gallery.
COMMUNITY DAY
Saturday, July 29, 12–4pm
Colby College Museum of Art, 5600 Mayflower Hill
Join the Colby College Museum of Art for a day of family-friendly art, creative workshops, music, food, and interactive gallery experiences. Create your own works of art at the Art Tent with Lunder Institute resident fellow Genevieve Gaignard and Papay Solomon. Engage in looking activities in the galleries, and spend time in the exhibitions, Painted: Our Bodies, Hearts, and Village; Whistler: Streetscapes, Urban Change; Come Closer: Selections from the Collection, 1978–1994; and Constellations: Forming the Collection, 1973–2023.
BILL MORRISON: CYCLES + LOOPS
August 18–December 31, 2023; Wednesday–Monday, 11am–7pm Opening reception: Friday, September 1, 5–7 pm
One of the most accomplished experimental filmmakers working today, Bill Morrison finds and redeploys lesser-known and forgotten moments from film history. Cycles & Loops is an installation of abstractions made specifically for gallery presentation. The loops have neither beginning nor end, but rather allow for an open-ended engagement on both an intellectual and an aesthetic level. Each offers a semblance of a narrative—we recognize people happily dancing, a woman awaking from slumber, a group of children gazing through a window in wonderment—and yet the minimal story lines do not lead to any resolution, just repeating again and again. The wavering, ephemeral fragments ask an existential question: How to preserve what cannot be preserved? Bill Morrison: Cycles & Loops is organized by the Visual Arts Center at the University of Texas at Austin.
Whether you are 55 or 85 our mission is the same... Grow and protect your family's treasure for your "Golden Age"
The Golden Age is before us, not behind us ... William Shakespeare
What does a “typical” day look like for you?
A typical day depends on what programs are coming up. Some days it’s a lot of computer work: responding to emails, updating our volunteer schedule, sending out the volunteer newsletter... Other days, I am in meetings discussing event logistics, contacting local restaurants about catering, creating nametags, and making sure we have event supplies. On the day of an event, I am usually running around the Art Center moving furniture, setting up signs, and communicating with volunteers and our staff to make sure the event runs smoothly.
Do you have a favorite work story or memory?
Joy to the Ville 2022. It was the public opening of the Paul J. Schupf Art Center and–of course–a snowstorm occurred. My colleague, Serena Sanborn, and I were worried no one was going to show up. We had a moment an hour before the opening when we contemplated whether we should have canceled. Then, at 10am we both saw families walking down Main Street in snow suits, and we found each other, so excited, squealing, “children are coming, children are coming!” Lo and behold, by the end of the day over 700 people came and participated in our programs. It was exhausting but also a very fulfilling experience.
What is your idea of perfect happiness?
For me perfect happiness is a timeless day, where I have no obligations or responsibilities, and I can get on my bicycle and ride towards an unfamiliar destination, with the ocean nearby, and just see what happens. Allowing myself the space to experience or learn something new, whether through art, history, science, or nature, and the time to connect with my loved ones over a good cup of coffee, and, of course, ending the day with viewing the sun setting over the ocean.
What is your favorite vacation/travel spot in Maine?
Vinalhaven! Taking the ferry from Rockland to Vinalhaven has become a monthly ritual for me, the ride across the ocean alone is one of my favorite Maine activities.
Can you recommend a play, musical, movie, or other art related experience to our readers?
If you are a romantic, I recommend watching the Before Sunrise trilogy series by Richard Linklater. And if you’re not a romantic, I recommend traveling to The Good Life Center in Harborside, Maine and viewing a Bill Copperthwaite yurt, truly an inspiring work of art.
In these times, we feel more than ever that there’s something special about being part of a great community.
At MaineGeneral, we believe our community deserves the best. That’s why we give you ours.
To learn more about our comprehensive quality services, call 1-866-4MGH-INFO or visit www.mainegeneral.org.
Mandalas are symmetrical, circular, geometric patterns, first created by Buddhist monks in the Himalayas over 2,000 years ago. Crafting nature mandalas can be an excellent way to explore artistic composition, mindfulness, and the great outdoors –all at the same time! These temporary art installations create beauty from foraged natural objects.
AN ASSORTMENT OF NATURAL OBJECTS, SUCH AS FALLEN LEAVES, FLOWER PETALS, BLADES OF GRASS, STICKS, STONES, AND ACORNS
1 Gather materials to make your nature mandala. Look for items of different sizes, shapes, colors, and textures.
2 Find a clear spot to make your mandala, or clear one yourself by brushing away any leaf litter or debris.
Tip: The ideal spot will contrast nicely with your materials. For example, a mandala made from green leaves will get lost when made on green grass. It would look much better on bare soil.
3 Find the center of your mandala and mark it with a special natural object.
4 Select the first material to create your first layer. Build a circular layer around your central item and radiate your design from the inside.
5 Continue to add as many layers as you would like.
6 When finished, take a moment to appreciate the natural beauty around you and to admire your work. It’s beautiful! Leave for others to discover and enjoy!
Note: If it is a rainy day, this can be done inside on paper.
Greene Block + Studios is a center for innovation in the arts, providing a home for vibrant arts programming and creative space for the development of original work in the heart of Waterville, Maine.
