AUGUSTA — An exhibition featuring colorful landscape photography by John and Cynthia Orcutt and painted bas-reliefs of birds by Hugh Verrier is on view in Maine’s Capitol Complex until February.

The exhibit, previously shown at Schoolhouse Gallery in Kingfield, is part of the Maine Arts Commission’s “Arts in the Capitol” program.

“These artists depict familiar visions of Maine’s landscape and wildlife in a way that is unique and engaging,” MAC Executive Director Julie Richard said. “When I recently attended a meeting in the Capitol, many in the room were commenting on the artwork and were delighted by these wonderful pieces.”

John and Cynthia Orcutt are fine art nature photographers and avid outdoor enthusiasts. Following a distinguished career as a landscape architect team, they have worked to create awareness of the need to preserve fragile places. Their images express the inherent beauty of areas endangered by easy public access and frequent visitation. 

Their work has been exhibited widely and can be found in many public and private collections. John is a board member of Maine Huts and Trails and was a board member of Wolfe’s Neck Farm. Cynthia is an active member of the Kingfield Village Enhancement and Bike Maine Organizing committees, as well as the long-range planning committee for Maine Huts and Trails.

Verrier was born and raised on Maine’s rocky coast. He worked for many years as a tugboat captain, commercial fisherman and small business owner. This association with the sea has inspired his art. He owns and operates a gallery and studio at Flagstaff Lake in Eustis. Here, he exhibits his watercolor sculptures formed from heavy French paper into birds and fish and then brought to life with watercolor.

Verrier’s work has been represented by the Jameson Gallery in Portland, Alone Moose Gallery in Bar Harbor and the Mast Cove Gallery in Kennebunkport. His work has been exhibited by Maine Coast Artists in two of their annual shows. Most recently, he gave a solo exhibition at Heartwood College of Art in Kennebunk.

“Arts in the Capitol” events are free and open to the public; however, exhibitions are self-guided and may be viewed only within prescribed times: Maine Arts Commission Office, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday; Maine State House, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday; and the Blaine House, 2-4 p.m. Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday (Please call ahead, 287-2121). For more information, visit MaineArts.com.

Copy the Story Link