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Let's Get Artsy: My Guide to Art Galleries in Maine
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items Not every day has to be an outdoor adventure in Maine. Art makes us happy; it gives us a better understanding of our world and the community from which it comes. I love an afternoon spent in art galleries, and here are the ones I visit when I'm feeli...
Map
Sections
4
Southern Maine
Portland
Midcoast
Downeast
Southern Maine
You can't shake a stick in southern Maine without hitting a lobster themed item, here are my suggestions for getting beyond the tourist art and exploring genuine gems.
Just south of Portland near Willard Beach is one of the Maine art scenes best kept secrets. The Willard Gallery is a small cottage gallery space by appointment only. Make that appointment.
The Willard Gallery
Representing some of the most iconic Maine artists of the day, the Art Hill in Kennebunk is a worthy place to stretch your legs and explore.
Maine Art Hill
While you're stopped in Kennebunk, don't forget to visit KW Contemporary. One of Maine's best galleries for art from all over. Tired of the endless takes on Maine landscapes/lobsters/lighthouses? I get it; this gallery is my favorite in Southern Main...
KW Contemporary Art
A true OG Maine art gallery with nearly 100 years in operation. Eclectic mix of art that trends traditional. Worth a stop if that suits your tastes.
MAST COVE GALLERIES
Portland
Maine's biggest city doesn't disappoint.
Conveniently located in the heart of downtown Portland, this gallery represents a majority of top local talent (and some for a little further away). Always worth a stop if you're in the area.
Portland Art Gallery
Edgy and contemporary more your vibe? Tired of all the Maine landscape art? Check out Space in Portland. They focus primarily on emerging/contemporary artists and you never know how you might be challenged when you stop in.
SPACE Gallery
One of my favorite smaller galleries in the area, Moss has locations in both Portland and Falmouth. The walls are always thoughtfully curated and the staff is welcoming and helpful.
Moss Galleries | Falmouth
Another great gallery with a more contemporary bend is Pearl Gallery at the Hay Building (across from the Portland Museum of Art). A no-brainer stop for anyone visiting the museum.
Pearl Gallery
The dedicated gallery space for the Maine College of Art is an absolute must visit for artsy folks in Portland. The future of Maine art is on the walls, don't miss it!
Institute of Contemporary Art
Midcoast
In every way the heart of Maine's art world.
One of Maine's most established and well-respected galleries, Bayview represents mature Maine artists at the top of their game.
Bayview Gallery
Rockland is Maine's art capitol and Dowling Walsh is one of the reasons why. This is a world-renowned contemporary art gallery representing some of the best artists. period. Absolutely must visit while you're spending the day in Rockland.
Dowling Walsh Gallery
Blue Raven in Rockland is another essential stop with beautiful art in a stunning and architecturally interesting building.
Blue Raven Gallery
Over in nearby Camden, you'll find Page Gallery, the personal exhibition space of Maine artist Colin Page, along with a curated selection of other Maine artists.
Page Gallery
One of the best rated galleries in an area full of them for a reason, Camden Falls Gallery is all original oils, all the time. You never know what you'll find when you walk through the door, but you can be sure it'll be interesting.
Camden Falls Gallery
Up Route 1 a bit in Belfast, you'll find the fantastic Waterfall Arts cooperative. Part studio space, part exhibition gallery, part community gathering spot, Waterfall Arts represents what makes art essential to strong communities.
Waterfall Arts
One of the oldest galleries in the region, Deer Isle Artist Association showcases the best from a region known to attract the best. Out of the way, but worth the drive.
Deer Isle Artists Association
Downeast
If you've made it this far, congratulations; you're in the REAL Maine.
Without question, my absolute favorite gallery in Maine. The art is the best of the best that Maine has to offer AND the owners are the sweetest people you'll ever meet. The gallery is essentially their home, just chock full of art to peruse. The set...
Littlefield Gallery
Argosy is Bar Harbor's best commercial gallery. Worth a visit when you're in town.
Argosy Gallery
Clark Point Gallery in Southwest Harbor is part of what makes this charming little town worth a visit. Whether you're looking for antiques, Acadia-themed merch, or delicious bakery items, downtown SWH has you covered… which makes Clark Point Gallery ...
Clark Point Gallery
In a sea of Maine landscape art that starts to blend together, Cygnet offers a rare contemporary art focus that is refreshing as it is enjoyable. Open later than most area galleries, it's a great place to visit as the day winds down.
The Cygnet Gallery
Small but meaningful artists cooperative gallery at the very edge of Maine (and the country!). If you've made it this far, you need to check it out.
Eastport Gallery
A wonderful surprise in this unassuming working-class village, the Machias (pronounced “muh-CHY-us”) Arts Center is always a lively and unique visit. The art is very local and as authentic as it comes.
Machias Arts Center