AUGUSTA — An exhibition of work by Maine veterans is on display through November throughout the Capitol complex. Approximately 40 art works by 31 artists, a majority of which are hanging in the Burton M. Cross administrative building, are on loan from the American Veterans Arts and Crafts Gallery (AVACG). The exhibit is timed to coincide with Veterans in the Arts and Humanities Appreciation Day on Nov. 1, established by Maine legislation in 2015, and Veterans Day celebrations on Nov. 11.

“We are really pleased to collaborate with the AVACG to recognize the services of these veterans by showcasing their art or craft and encouraging them to pursue their passion,” said Julie Horn, Visual Arts Program Director for the Commission said in a news release from the commission. “The AVACG wants every veteran to feel that he or she has a place to promote their art, regardless of skill level. We hope visitors, state employees, and legislators will take time to read the wall labels accompanying the work in order to learn more about the stories of these talented and dedicated individuals.”

The AVACG is primarily an online gallery that serves to celebrate veteran by showcasing their art or crafts to the public and helping to promote independent veteran artists. Managed by James Emerson, of Hudson, it is comprised of a group of veterans from all branches of the military, brought together by a love of art. AVACG organizes shows year round in many venues across Maine with each artwork on display hand made in the USA by an American veteran. For many of the artists, sales from the gallery are their only form of income as they face debilitating disabilities.

For more information on the AVACG, visit veteransartsandcrafts.com, or find them on Facebook.

The Art in the Capitol program features rotating exhibits throughout the Capitol Complex and offers an additional venue for Maine artists or artists working on Maine-based themes. It is designed to expand the audience for Maine artists or artists working in Maine on Maine-based themes. All Art in the Capitol exhibits are free and open to the public. Exhibitions are self-guided and may be viewed during the building hours where the exhibition is on display.

For more information, contact Julie Horn at julie.horn@maine.gov or 287-2713.


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