PHOTOS: Barn Gallery Talk with Russel Whitten and Pamela duLong Williams | Ogunquit Art Association

Art enthusiasts gathered on Thursday, September 21st, at 6 PM for a captivating Barn Gallery Artist Talk that provided an intimate glimpse into the creative minds of two exceptional artists, Russel Whitten and Pamela duLong Williams. Held as part of the Ogunquit Art Association’s Fall Exhibition Showcase at Barn Gallery, this event allowed attendees to delve into the stories behind the art and gain insight into the unique creative processes of these celebrated artists.

The Barn Gallery Artist Talk, hosted at Barn Gallery in Ogunquit Maine, drew a crowd of 40+ eager art lovers who were eager to connect with the artists and discover the inspiration behind their masterpieces. Admission to this enlightening event was entirely free, providing a rare opportunity for the community to engage with the artists on a personal level.

Pamela duLong Williams, a distinguished artist with an impressive artistic journey, was one of the spotlighted artists of the evening. Her artistic journey began with formal education at prestigious institutions, including the Art Students League in New York City and the Boston Museum School of Fine Art. She ultimately graduated from the Vesper George School of Art in Boston, MA.

Williams has not only excelled in her personal artistic endeavors but has also generously shared her knowledge and passion with others. She has taught the art of painting in oil at several respected institutions, including the Silvermine School of Art in New Canaan, CT; UNH in Durham, NH; Coolidge Art Center in Portsmouth, NH; Heartwood College of Art in Kennebunk, ME; and the Rowayton Art Center in Rowayton, CT, among others, since 1976.

Her remarkable works have been displayed in prestigious competitions and collections, including the National Academy in NYC, Allied Artists in NYC, Creditianstalt in NYC, The Louis Williams Cone Collection, The State House Collection of Boston, and have also been featured in renowned publications such as Artist’s Magazine, American Artist Magazine, and Coastal Living Magazine. Additionally, her art has graced the walls of numerous galleries both in the United States and abroad.

Notably, Pamela duLong Williams is a juried artist-member of the Ogunquit Art Association and maintains active membership in notable organizations like the Silvermine Guild of Artists in New Canaan, CT; The Copley Society in Boston, MA; and the Portrait Society of America.

The second featured artist, Russel Whitten, brought his own unique perspective to the Barn Gallery Artist Talk. Whitten’s artistic journey included studies at the Maine College of Art, Heartwood College of Art, and the Art Students League of New York. His artwork is represented by The Wright Gallery in Cape Porpoise, and he is an esteemed + juried member-artist and exhibiting artist with The Ogunquit Arts Association/Barn Gallery.

With a passion for teaching, Russel has dedicated 20 years to nurturing the artistic talents of students in Southern Maine. He has taught at various art institutions, including Rivertree Center for the Arts in Kennebunk, Sanctuary Arts in Eliot, Old Orchard Beach Adult Education, Wells Adult Education, and The University of New England in Biddeford. His expertise extends to scenic artistry in theater painting, with credits at The Ogunquit Playhouse, Good Theater in Portland, Maine, and Prescott Park in Portsmouth, NH.

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Photos of the Barn Gallery Talk with Russel Whitten and Pamela duLong Williams (by OAA Artist Member, Deidre O’Flaherty)

Additional Information

At the event, as attendees immersed themselves in the stories and experiences of these accomplished artists, it was a reminder of the vibrant artistic community that exists in Ogunquit.

The Barn Gallery Artist Talk served as a celebration of creativity, education, and the enduring legacy of the Ogunquit Art Association, which marked its 95th year with the Fall Exhibition Showcase at Barn Gallery.

The Fall Exhibition Showcase at Barn Gallery is a testament to the rich artistic heritage of Ogunquit — and it will continue to delight art enthusiasts as it remains on display through October 9, 2023.

For those who missed the Gallery Talk, the art on display is a visual feast, offering a glimpse into the creativity that thrives within this vibrant artistic community.