Arts & Leisure
York Art Association presents its 50th show at gala opening
By Rose Safran
The York Art Association's 50th show is going on now in York Harbor. Pictured is visiting judge Maria Ayer, who awarded ribbons for overall first, second and third place, as well as three honorable mentions. Ayer, who holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in fine art from Moore College of Art and Design in Philadelphia, Pa., is the owner of Alexander Lake Design in Dover, N.H.
Courtesy photo
That cliché - without the "baby," for the organization is over 50 years old - might be applied to the current York Art Association.
Never, in the many years during which I've attended its openings have I seen such enthusiasm, interest and cooperation. Thanks to new membership, considerable work by many members and wonderful caring guidance and leadership through Helen Hennessy and her devoted and hard-working husband, Rick, the YAA, located on Route 1A in York Harbor, is thriving.
At the opening of the 50th show, which is filled with member works and with paintings hung well, awards were given out. The judge was Maria Ayer, who runs Alexander Lake Design of Dover, N.H. First prize went to Leslie Doherty for an oil, "Winter roots." Second prize went to Gail Claes for another oil, "Marsh Breeze," while third prize went to Jacqueline Wilson for her woodcut of a loon. Honorable mentions went to Becky Clark for her silver gelatin photograph, "A Delicate Balance," Jack Pollard for his watercolor "Rocky Coast" and Joanne Campbell for her watercolor, "Bouquet Burst."
In addition to exhibiting at the York At Association Gallery in York Harbor, member artists' works are exhibited around town at the York Harbor Post Office, York Shears, Town Hall, York Family Practice, Fitness Options, the York Public Library, Sentry Hill and the Bank of America.
The organization has a student scholarship fund, which gives an annual award to a York High School student planning to pursue an art degree at a two or four year college. The award is based on artistic talent, not on financial need or academic excellence. Member artist Dennis Poirier, who chaired the current ongoing exhibit, contributed one of his paintings to benefit the organization's scholarship fund. He also gave a free demonstration recently and offers workshops through July and August. For further information about Poirier, visit www.dennispoirierstudio.com.
In celebration of its 50th year, this summer, the YAA will mount an Anniversary Retrospective, which will include the work of several noted area artists with national reputations including Robert Eric Moore and Beverly Hallam.
We look forward to that show, too. Congratulations, YAA!
