It has always amazed me that Waterville, with its two colleges, its medical facilities, banks and prosperous businesses, has never been able to support, for long, a serious art gallery.

Of course, we have Colby’s free, impressive art museum, but that institution does not generally exhibit work by Maine artists. So where do those artists exhibit? Each spring (coming up soon), the Waterville Library does a great job hosting the Maine juried art show, but it only lasts a month. And while the library also has a lovely fourth-floor gallery that presents artists’ work, few seem to know about its existence.

Two other venues exist that I particularly hope everyone will visit. One is the multi-faceted Common Street Arts across from the Opera House, where exhibits of every sort are presented, along with classes, workshops and special events. The gallery is a true eye-opener. The next show will involve children’s art, to be followed by an exhibit titled “Underlying Threads,” which will explore the nature and history of mill towns.

The other venue is The Framemakers, an establishment of long standing, now with many new features, including an expanded gallery space for continuous, changing exhibits. These complement the handsome window spaces where exhibits also are mounted. Currently on display are works by several artists, including Jean Ann Pollard’s astounding Gaia Series, large, complex, glowing low-relief paintings that celebrate the mystery and wonder of the natural world. And presented along with Pollard’s work are some truly stunning wood sculptures by Laurie Sproul.

Have you considered what sort of world we’d have without art? Have you seen what ISIS is doing in that regard? Remember that neglect also can destroy. Please support the arts.

Abbott Meader

Oakland

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