PHOTOS: Gala Reception for the 2024 Late Summer Art Exhibitions at Barn Gallery in Ogunquit, Maine

On Saturday, August 17th, the Gala Reception for the Late Summer Exhibitions brought together art enthusiasts, collectors, tourists, and members of the Ogunquit Art Association (OAA) in a warm and inviting atmosphere that encapsulated the essence of this beloved coastal Maine town. It was an unforgettable evening of art, conversation, and celebration!

The event was a gathering of creative spirits and admirers alike, filling Barn Gallery’s cool and airy spaces with energy. Lively exchanges could be heard throughout the reception as attendees discussed the compelling and colorful works on display, reflecting on everything from technique and form to inspiration and artistic journey. Whether mingling in the spacious main galleries or gathering in the outdoor Sculpture Court, the event was a true celebration of both art and our thriving Ogunquit-area artistic community.

This year’s Late Summer Exhibitions highlight four distinct collections that reveal the depth and breadth of talent within the OAA. The centerpiece of the show, “OAA Expressions,” showcases a diverse range of subjects and mediums. This recurring, but always changing, exhibition serves as a cross section of what is happening in the regional art scene, as seen through the best recent work of juried OAA artist-members. The variety of work — from serene landscapes to vibrant abstracts (and well beyond) — invites visitors to explore the individual voices of OAA’s artist-members, while the juxtaposition and proximity of an eclectic array pieces by the diverse roster of OAA artists opens ample opportunities to lead open minds to unexpected heights of sublime inspiration.

In addition to this central exhibition, the artist showcases for Late Summer at Barn Gallery spotlight the works of OAA painters Shaune McCarthy and Shiao Ping Wang. McCarthy’s expressive and spontaneous approach lends her pieces a sense of movement and immediacy, reflecting her playful process and willingness to venture into the unknown. Wang’s work, which blends influences from her roots in Taiwan with Western techniques, offers an elegant synthesis of abstraction and observation. Her delicately balanced compositions, rendered in luminous color palettes, provide a serene and mindful counterpoint to the event’s lively atmosphere.

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Photos of the Gala Reception for the 2024 Late Summer Exhibitions at Barn Gallery (by OAA Artist Member, Dave Wade)

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Stepping outside into the Sculpture Court, guests were met with an array of works by both OAA sculptors and invited New England artists. The outdoor setting offered a unique contrast between Ogunquit’s natural beauty and the human creativity embodied in the sculptural pieces. From striking forms in metal and stone to delicate, nature-inspired designs, the sculptures added a tactile dimension to the evening, allowing attendees to engage with the art in a different way.

The Expanded Collectors Gallery, meanwhile, provided an opportunity for both seasoned collectors and newcomers to discover smaller works ready for immediate purchase. These accessible pieces — no larger than 16×20 and priced under $850 — offered a more intimate entry into the world of fine art collecting. With a wide variety of styles and subjects represented, the gallery was a delightful stop for those looking to take home a piece of the evening.

Beyond the exhibitions themselves, the Gala Reception was marked by the joviality and camaraderie of those in attendance. Longtime supporters of the OAA mingled with first-time visitors, while area art collectors exchanged insights with artists about the stories behind their work. The relaxed, welcoming environment encouraged meaningful dialogue, whether over a glass of wine or while standing before a captivating piece.

As summer edges into its final stretch, the Late Summer Exhibitions at Barn Gallery vividly reflect the enduring creative energy of this coastal town, offering a place where art lovers of all kinds can come together to share in the joy of artistic expression. With the Late Summer exhibitions running through September 7th, there’s still plenty of time to experience this season’s most current cultural offerings and discover why Barn Gallery remains a fundamental (and, indeed, the original) cornerstone of Ogunquit’s artistic heritage.

While there’s truly no substitute for experiencing these creations in person, the magic of the gallery can also be glimpsed virtually on our website and social media channels. So, whether you’re strolling the streets of Ogunquit or exploring online, be sure to set your sights on (and find ample inspiration at) Barn Gallery – the actual place where Maine’s enviable artistic roots run the deepest.