A.D. Blake, "Fortuna followed by other large schooners of the Eastern Yacht Club, sail into Nantucket Harbor, MA,” circa 1885, oil, 30 by 40 inches.
:People like spending time outdoors, and to residents of coastal New England, that often means spending time on the water. Passersby walking along the coastline on a sunny day will note the number of boaters.
The Fairfield Museum and History Center is unveiling a new marine art exhibit called "Salt Air & Sunlight: Coastal Views of New England" on Saturday, September 26. At the exhibition, visitors can journey down Long Island Sound, along the Rhode Island shore, past Cape Cod and the islands to the rocky coast of Maine. The exhibit, curated by J. Russell Jinishian, will remain on view through October 18.
Through the eyes of America's leading marine artists, viewers can visit popular harbors and little known coves and see schooners, a Cunard Liner from the 1890s and an image of Fairfield's own Penfield Lighthouse.
"We're pleased to offer…the opportunity to view paintings by the world's leading marine artists," says Jinishian. "There has never been a more exciting time in the 300-year history of marine art than right now. Today's dedicated marine artists are turning their considerable talents towards recreating every aspect of life in and around the sea. The result is a dazzling variety of images and interpretations from the most traditional to nearly impressionistic. Sailors, art connoisseurs and history buffs alike are certain to find something of interest in this extraordinary exhibition."
Neal Hughes, "Late Afternoon Off Newport, Rhode Island,” oil, 30 by 40 inches.
"This exhibition brings together 20 of today's most prominent marine artists. Russell has created a show that explores the many visual dimensions of New England's seacoast," says Michael Jehle, the museum's executive director. "This is an exhibition that everyone can enjoy."
A special preview of the exhibition will coincide with the Fairfield Museum's event, A Night At The Museum, which takes place on Saturday September 26. The event begins with dinner in the homes of friends of the Fairfield Museum and culminates with champagne, dessert and entertainment at the museum. For details, 203-259-1598 or
www.fairfieldhs.org
. The Fairfield Museum and History Center is at 370 Beach Road.
