L/A Arts
Fine Art Exhibit Will Showcase Androscoggin River portrayed by 40+
artists at L/A Arts Gallery 5
River Ways
August 28-October 14
Gallery 5, 49 Lisbon Street, Lewiston, Maine
T, W, Th, F: 5-8, Sa: 10-4, 5-8 and by appointment with
L/A Arts 207 782-7228
Robin Brooks, Androscoggin River 1, 2008
LEWISTON, MAINE – The Androscoggin river is one of the major water ways in Maine. It has been the life blood of people in this area ever since people first inhabited the region. While past harmful practices polluted the great river and its surrounding environment, the waterway and its surrounding community have undergone a major regeneration over recent years and is increasingly resuming its natural beauty.
The Androscoggin Land Trust, a group of people dedicated to protecting the important natural areas, traditional landscapes, and outdoor experience in the Androscoggin River watershed is partnering with L/A Arts, Lewiston Auburn’s Local Arts Agency, to create an exhibit of fine artwork, titled River Ways, that celebrates the natural and man-made environment along the Androscoggin River. Artists from all over Maine have been invited to share their perceptions, through their artwork, of this integral feature of our state.
The two organizations have gained support from several notable individuals for this partnership who now make up a host committee for River Ways, including Congressman Mike Michaud, Maine Department of Conservation Commissioner Patrick McGowan, Androscoggin Bank President Steve Closson, and Barbara Trafton, Trustee of The Nature Conservancy of Maine. Additionally artist Duncan Slade, who has been inspired by the Androscoggin River all of his 90+ years, has given his whole hearted support of the exhibit.
“This reception will showcase the natural beauty of the Androscoggin River,” said Michaud. “The artists have done a tremendous job capturing the river and the surrounding areas. The arts help us tell our story as a people, and they play an important role in maintaining and strengthening our way of life. I couldn’t be more pleased to help host this event.”
On Friday, August 28, the public is invited to the opening reception of River Ways at L/A Arts Gallery 5, 49 Lisbon Street, Lewiston. The reception will begin at 5 pm. Many of the participating artists will attend, as well as representatives of several major environmental agencies. River Ways exhibit will run through October 14. Gallery hours are T, W, Th 5 – 9 pm, F & Sa 5 – 10 pm and by appointment with L/A Arts (207-782-7228).
“This is not just an art exhibit,” explains Andrew Harris, Executive Director of L/A Arts. “It’s a celebration of our community and our environment. While there are many beautiful places in Maine, I think the Androscoggin River with its Great Falls and stunning presence, along with its integral impact in shaping this community, needs to be recognized as equally inspiring.”
Several associated events are being planned in connection with River Ways, including a Community Reception on October 2 and a Harvest Dinner Gala and Auction on October 16 which also commemorates the Androscoggin Land Trust’s 20th Anniversary. These events are made possible, in part, through the support of Androscoggin Bank and Mainebiz, as well as Encompass Marketing & Design and Tarbell & Brodich Professional Association.
More information on River Ways and L/A Arts can be found on line at www.laarts.org or contact the arts organization at 207-782-7228. The Androscoggin Land Trust can be contacted at 207-782-2302 or online at www.androscogginlandtrust.org.