Peaks Island Culture: 5 Spots for Art Lovers

If you’re after an easy getaway with a touch of New England charm, Peaks Island in Maine just might be calling your name! I mean, seriously, who wouldn’t enjoy a ferry trip across Casco Bay to a community bursting with history and local artistry? So it is that this isn’t your usual tourist trap; yet, it’s a cozy spot where art seems to breathe in the salty air. You will discover culture just around every corner, making for some incredible discoveries.

Gem #1: The Gem Gallery

Let’s kick things off with The Gem Gallery! The spot right there, it feels like walking into a friend’s very artsy living room! As a matter of fact, local artist, Jamie Hogan fills this space with a variety of his colorful and delightful pieces, but it’s almost always Jamie’s warm personality that makes the visit so special. So you could chat about his techniques, what inspires his artwork, or life on Peaks Island generally speaking!

Visiting this local establishment, so is like getting a glimpse into the soul of Peaks Island, and his unique art really speaks for itself. As I was saying, whether it is painting or sketching that is of interest to you, do prepare to have an artwork of Jamie Hogan on display. It is going to offer you inspiration! Very honestly, seeing is believing when you see it face to face.

Gem #2: Richard Boyd Art Gallery

Moving on, there’s the Richard Boyd Art Gallery. In that case, picture this: a beautifully curated space featuring contemporary paintings, sculptures, and works in mixed media. Basically, this gallery represents both established and emerging artists with different backgrounds and styles. If you check their website for featured artists before you go, that may add more insight.

Frankly, it has exhibitions going on throughout the season, so it feels like something exciting awaits for a visit almost every time you step inside. Really, the gallery focuses more on visual stories and capturing feelings with its many diverse options, yet this allows one to reflect at great length.

Gem #3: Fifth Maine Museum

Okay, for a dash of history, The Fifth Maine Museum is definitely a great location for visiting! So it is that this museum focuses on the Civil War era, housing a collection of artifacts and memorabilia related to the Fifth Maine Regiment. If history or artifact display is to your liking, check it out for some artifacts of days gone by. Very possibly, you would have memories of that era of American history unlocked!

What’s really nice is they aim to make it relatable! I mean the setting’s informal and the folks love to tell some amazing stories to capture our attention to those tumultuous times gone past. Very possibly, the human element is emphasized which makes it pretty interesting, I would venture to guess!

Gem #4: Peaks Island Library

Yes, truly, a library makes the list, yet it’s more than just books at the Peaks Island Library! Usually, this location will host local author talks, small art exhibitions, and community gatherings. By the way, the building provides a warm and welcome environment, especially for visiting book worms. What is more, the setting is just one of comfort, you should visit the Peaks Island Library!

But then, this is the place to see who’s who, but I might argue more like what’s what on Peaks Island! Basically, they frequently rotate art, as well as pieces, so seeing local perspectives in images might be a wonderful way to grasp and embrace the surroundings. I could see that the rotating images on the display wall really offers unique appeal.

Gem #5: Umbrella Cover Museum

Last but not least, the Umbrella Cover Museum! Really, now, this place is delightfully quirky! Anyway, as the name suggests, it’s dedicated to, you guessed it, umbrella covers! As a matter of fact, the curator, Nancy 3. Hoffman, has a massive collection and an uncanny knowledge of her unique passion! You, similarly to the many other fans of such novelty, you might also enjoy its whimsy.

Honestly, the place itself is sort of fun, maybe it could be called an adventure. Anyway, if I were to go, I think the appeal would be the offbeat attitude that really adds a sense of fun and creativity to the whole island, I’d venture to guess!