Capitol Reception for Maine Artists

There are many reasons to come to the Capitol Complex this Thursday, Jan.24, between 11:00 am and 1:30pm. Republican Senator Tom Saviello, from District 18, will be hosting an artist reception to celebrate the Arts in the Capitol program. Artists John Orcutt and Hugh Verrier will be on hand to discuss their techniques, styles and inspiration. Free refreshments will be provided for attendees.

These artists have come together to offer a show depicting traditional views of Maine through quite different mediums. Colorful landscape photography by John and Cynthia Orcutt accompany painted bas-reliefs of birds by Hugh Verrier to bring an unprecedented array of vibrancy to those who visit and work in the Capitol.

John and Cynthia Orcutt are fine art nature photographers and avid outdoor enthusiasts. Following a distinguished career as a landscape architect team, they have pursued their interest in creating an awareness of the necessity for active preservation of fragile places. Through their photographic images, they express the inherent beauty of areas endangered by easy public access and frequent visitation.

Hugh Verrier was born and raised on the rocky coast of Maine. He worked for many years as a tugboat captain, commercial fisherman and small business owner. This association with the sea has inspired his artistic work and he now owns and operates his own gallery and studio on the shore of Flagstaff Lake in Eustis. Here he exhibits his unique watercolor sculptures that are formed from very heavy French paper into lovely birds and fish; these sculptures are then brought alive with watercolor.

This is your chance to view exceptional artwork on display in the State Capitol, to meet these amazing artists and learn from them, and to find out more about the Arts in the Capitol program, and other programs offered by the Maine Arts Commission. For more information, you can call John Orcutt at 207/939-6518