Field is an Auburn artist known for his trompe l’oeil still life and street scenes. Trompe l’oeil is a French phrase which means “deceive the eye,” and refers to an art technique involving extremely realistic imagery depicting objects in three dimensions. The viewer feels able to step into or hold the subject of the painting. Field’s trompe l’oeil paintings often feature old toys or memorabilia

Field’s studio is full of old toys, bottles, boxes, guitars, and bits and pieces that eventually find their way into his paintings. In addition, his eye is always ready for beautiful scenery as seen during his travels to Boston and Sebec Lake. Among the 14 new pieces at this exhibit is a playful painting depicting a child flying toy planes from a rocky hill. The scene is of land near Court Street in Auburn that was formerly the Merrill Farm.

“New Works of Richard Field” will be on exhibit through March. Gallery hours are from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Thursday and Friday, from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturday or by appointment. Lyceum Gallery is located at 49 Lisbon Street. For more information, visit www.lyceumgallery.com, email [email protected], or call 207-576-4805.