BELFAST — Maine Farmland Trust recently completed the re-gifting of the more than 100 pieces of valuable artwork given to the trust several years ago by the late artist and conservationist Joseph A. Fiore (1925-2008). The paintings and drawings were part of Fiore’s “Geological Works,” also known as the “Rock Paintings,” and were collectively valued at approximately $1.3 million. The Rock Paintings now reside with 50 nonprofits throughout the state of Maine, and beyond.

Among the recipients are such organizations as Bates College, Colby College, College of the Atlantic, St. Joseph’s College, Unity College, Bay Chamber Concerts, DaPonte String Quartet, American Farmland Trust, Blue Hill Heritage Trust, Cape Elizabeth Land Trust, Damariscotta River Association, Island Heritage Trust, Midcoast Conservancy, Maine Organic Farmers and Gardeners Association, Penobscot East Resource Center, Wolfe’s Neck Farm, Kieve-Wavus Education Inc., Hurricane Island Center for Science & Leadership, Haystack, Gibbs Library, Skidompha Library, Vose Library, and many more Maine nonprofits doing important work.

A full list of recipients can be found on MFT’s website www.mainefarmlandtrust.org. This page actually offers a “Fiore Art Trail,” giving an overview of all the places in Maine where Fiore’s art can be found, along with opening times of organizations which offer public access. There is even a day trip suggestion complete with locations of eateries along the way.

Maine Farmland Trust itself has two locations where Fiore’s art can be seen — in this case, not only Rock Paintings, but also landscapes and abstract works: MFT Gallery, 97 Main St., Belfast; and the Joseph A. Fiore Art Center, 152 Punk Point Road, Jefferson.

For more information about Fiore and his art, visit his MFT Gallery website or contact Anna Witholt Abaldo at 338-6575 or anna@mainefarmlandtrust.org.