With the addition of the Center for Maine Contemporary Art to Rockland’s downtown the summer of 2016, one could argue that our small coastal city has become the hub of Maine’s incredible art scene. Keep reading to find out why we are considered the Arts Capital of Maine!
We are home to: The Farnsworth Art Museum Dedicated to American and Maine-inspired art, the Farnsworth allows you to not only enjoy works by the Wyeth family but also offers inventive and compelling exhibitions. In addition, this world-class museum hosts a calendar of events full of educational opportunities, lectures, music recitals, and more.
The Wyeth Center As an extension to the Farnsworth Art Museum, the Wyeth Center features the works of Jamie Wyeth, Andrew Wyeth, and special exhibitions. The building once housed the United Methodist Church and has been reimagined as an extension to the Farnsworth Art Museum campus. Please note the center is open seasonally.
The Olsen House Christina Olsen and her home were the inspiration behind many Andrew Wyeth works. The Olsen House, a saltwater farm located in Cushing, Maine, is on the National Register of Historic Places and under the purview of the Farnsworth. The homestead is open Memorial Day weekend through Columbus Day weekend, Tuesdays through Sundays.
Center for Maine Contemporary Art Focusing on “the art of this generation and the next”, the CMCA is the perfect artistic counterpoint to the Farnsworth. Explore ever-changing exhibits of modern art created by Maine artists and all on offer in a unique, compelling, and award-winning building designed by architect Toshiko Mori.
Lots of Galleries You could spend days exploring Rockland’s many art galleries. Make sure you don’t miss Harbor Square’s rooftop gallery, home of the Muir Garden for Contemporary Sculpture. It sports not only some exquisite sculptures and installations but also a stellar view of Rockland’s Harbor.
Art Classes The beautiful Maine coast has attracted artists for generations. The tradition continues today with art class offerings for the amateur to the professional including at the Art Loft, a unique and vibrant art community center offering classes for all levels and abilities. Even more learning opportunities await with:
First Friday Night Art Walk First Friday Night Art Walks are organized by the Arts in Rockland non-profit. From May through November, every first Friday of the month is the Friday Night Art Walk in downtown Rockland. Wander in and out of galleries, meet the artists, nosh on finger foods, and enjoy some wine. The Farnsworth (beginning in June) and the CMCA are both open until 8 pm with free admission.
Close to Rockland Just a half-hour drive down the picturesque St. George Peninsula, you will find beautiful views and more chances to enjoy the well-known art of coastal Maine. Linda Bean’s Wyeth by Water Boat Tours depart from Port Clyde’s harbor. In the warmer months of the year, board Linda Bean’s lobster boat, the Linderlin Losh, and see the seascapes and landscapes the Wyeth family loved and captured on canvas. Or stop in Linda Bean’s Maine Wyeth Gallery, found on the second floor of Port Clyde’s General Store. On display is an ever-changing selection of Linda Bean’s personal collection of Wyeth works. This unique gallery is open every day of the week from Memorial Day weekend through Columbus Day weekend.
Special Art Package Available Savor the Arts Packages Looking for more ways to enjoy the arts in Rockland? Check out our arts packages at our Maine bed and breakfast. Savor the Arts in the Locals’ Season, available November through May, Thursday through Sunday nights, includes a two-night stay, tickets to the local museums, $50 of Midcoast Money to use toward dinner at one of Rockland’s fantastic restaurants, and two photographs from a local artist. Our Savor the Summer Arts, available mid-June through mid-October, includes a three-night stay, tickets to the local museums, $50 of Midcoast Money to use towards dinner at one of Rockland’s fantastic restaurants, two photographs from a local artist, and a special discounts and offerings at local businesses and restaurants (representing a $150 savings!).
At our Rockland bed and breakfast, we can help you make the most of the incredible art scene in town. Come join us in the Art Capital of Maine and savor all the art on offer in our beautiful Maine coast city.