NORWAY — An effort to preserve and restore historic art from the collection of the Western Maine Art Group has been spearheaded by former WMAG President Barbara Traficonte. Traficonte has worked in cooperation with her son, Steve Traficonte, the owner of a local frame and art supply store, to donate material and labor to rescue and revitalize historic local artwork.

Paintings by historic local artists such as George “Shavey” Noyes, Zilpha Ann Plummer and Lajos Matolcsy have benefited from this preservation effort. Several photographs by Miss Minnie Libby and Vivian Milner Akers have also been refreshed with new mats, glass and frames. Most of the works are between 50 and 100 years old, and were not protected with acid free mats or UV protective glass.

“These works are an important part of local culture. Because many were still in their original matting, which predated modern archival materials, this generous donation from the Traficontes and a handful of others has helped to ensure that this art will still be there for generations to come.” said WMAG President Melanie Tornberg.

Many of the refurbished pieces will be on display to the public at the WMAG annual holiday party on Sunday, Dec. 2 at the Matolcsy Art Center, 480 Main St. All are welcome to come view the art gifts.

“The Squeeze” by Lajos Matolcsy.

Ink sketch by George Shavey Noyes.

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