Midcoast Maine has long been a haven for artists, drawn to its rugged coastline, charming towns, and ever-changing light. Whether you’re an art lover, a collector, or simply curious, exploring the region’s galleries and studios is a fantastic way to experience Maine’s creative energy. From traditional maritime paintings to contemporary sculptures and hands-on workshops, there’s something for everyone.
Discover Local Galleries
Maine’s galleries are as diverse as the artists they represent. Here are some must-visit spots where you can admire and even take home a piece of Maine’s artistic soul:
Boothbay Region Art Foundation (Boothbay Harbor) – A rotating showcase of local artists in various mediums, from oil paintings to fiber arts. This nonprofit gallery also supports emerging artists.
Gleason Fine Art (Boothbay Harbor) – Specializing in Maine landscapes, maritime scenes, and contemporary works, this gallery features both well-known and up-and-coming artists.
Bayview Gallery (Brunswick) – Representing regional and national artists, Bayview Gallery has a stunning collection of paintings that capture the spirit of New England.
Stable Gallery (Damariscotta) – Set in a converted 19th-century stable, this cooperative gallery features a mix of painting, sculpture, ceramics, and jewelry from local artisans.
Dowling Walsh Gallery (Rockland) – Located near the Farnsworth Museum, this gallery is known for showcasing high-caliber Maine artists and modern interpretations of classic coastal scenes.
Bonus Art: The Sculpture Trail! The Boothbay Region features Maine’s only sculpture trail. Think of it as an open-air gallery that everyone can see for free! While you can see a number of the sculptures as you wander around Boothbay Harbor, don’t forget to seek out the sculptures in East Boothbay, Boothbay, Barter’s Island, and Southport, too! The Chamber of Commerce (located next to Hannaford’s) has maps of all the sculptures in the harbor to get you started.
Visit Working Studios
If you want to see artists in action, many studios welcome visitors, offering a behind-the-scenes look at the creative process:
Maine Art Gallery (Wiscasset) – This historic space celebrates both contemporary and traditional Maine artists, often with live painting demonstrations.
Tidemark Gallery (Waldoboro) – A unique mix of art and community, this studio gallery features everything from paintings to handmade jewelry.
The Kefauver Studio & Gallery (Damariscotta) – Will Kefauver, a noted plein-air artist, showcases his own work alongside other talented Maine artists.
Artsake Gallery (Boothbay Harbor) – A small artist-owned cooperative where you can chat with creators about their processes and inspirations.
Monhegan Island Artists’ Studios – A short boat ride away, Monhegan has been an artist colony for over a century. Visit during the island’s annual open studio days to see painters, sculptors, and woodworkers in their element.
Attend Art Events & Workshops
Want to try your hand at creating something yourself? Midcoast Maine has plenty of opportunities to get involved:
Boothbay Harbor Fest (September) – A weeklong festival that includes an arts and crafts showcase, live music, and an open studio tour.
Rockland’s First Friday Art Walks – On the first Friday of each month, Rockland’s art galleries stay open late for an evening of exhibitions and meet-the-artist events.
Maine Coast Craft School (Bristol) – Offers workshops in traditional woodworking, including spoon carving and furniture making.
Centre St Arts Gallery (Bath) – Hosts regular classes in painting and drawing for all skill levels.
Watercolor Workshops at Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens (Boothbay) – A chance to capture the beauty of Maine’s flora in stunning watercolor.
Maine’s Art Scene: A Lasting Impression
Whether you spend an afternoon wandering through a gallery, watching an artist bring a canvas to life, or getting hands-on in a workshop, exploring Midcoast Maine’s art scene is an unforgettable experience. Art is woven into the fabric of life here, capturing the essence of the coast, its people, and its stories.
Looking for more inspiration? Get in touch! Our team is happy to curate more art opportunities just for you, and can even help plan your visit around one of the region’s many art festivals!