A new show opens Aug. 19 at the Damariscotta River Grill featuring seasoned artists Doug Houle, Susan Tilton Pecora and Kimberly Skillin Traina. Three distinct styles and mediums explore a number of themes, each capturing a unique viewpoint depicting the natural beauty of Maine. The “Art at the Grill” opening reception is Thursday, Aug. 22. Art is on display through Oct. 28.  

 

Doug Houle lives in Jefferson and has traveled northern New England for 29 years. His focus is on New England's buildings and landscapes, boatyards and docks, creating dramatic images using light and color. "Through my painting I have chosen to highlight the architecture and life of small town New England. I am drawn to the charm and nostalgia around old homes and barns, store fronts, lighthouses and boatyards. Whether the places are frequently visited or passed by, they surround a town’s people, giving recognition to the historical relevance they have in our communities. Light and color are crucial for these pieces. Working primarily in oils, I leave the underlayer of my painting showing through the planes and edges, which helps to develop a level of interest in the surrounding work. Objects absorb and reflect all sorts of color and how that is manipulated impacts the mood.”

 

Susan Tilton Pecora was raised in Marblehead, Massachusetts. In this seashore community she grew to appreciate the quality of light and the intrinsic beauty of New England, painting the streets and seaports of New England since she was a child.  “I have been painting the harbors, farms and factory towns of New England since childhood,” she said.  “I have made a living as an artist for over 40 years. I work in watercolor, egg tempera and oil.  My paintings begin with a pencil or ink sketch then a watercolor or underpainting in oil on location.  I finish the piece in my studio.” Susan exhibits and sells her work through galleries and art associations throughout the country and is a signature member of The New England Watercolor Society.

 

Kimberly Skillin Traina is a graphic designer, photographer and pastel artist living in Edgecomb. Ten years living on Peaks Island for 10 years sparked her love affair with islands. Kim utilizes the pure pigments of soft pastels and her fingers to layer many colors on top of an underpainting, creating depth and luminescence.  Both her pastels and new work in oils are a spiritual interpretation of nature, light, and atmosphere through her depiction of skies, clouds, islands, reflections, water and waves. “Making art is how I make sense of, and honor, both my challenges and joys in this life. I love being outdoors, connecting with nature, creating in my studio, losing all sense of time and place. Whether I’m painting plein-air or from a photograph, the end result is always it’s own story, conveying my passion for this beautiful place I call home.”

The Grill, located at 155 Main St., Damariscotta, is open seven nights for dinner, starting at 4 p.m. For more information or make a reservation, please call 207-563-2992 and visit  www.damariscottarivergrill.com