Augusta Art Galleries
(Augusta, Maine - ME, USA)
There is little in the way of galleries residing in Augusta, although a very reasonable selection is to be found just outside of the city's boundaries, in neighboring towns such as Waterville (around 30 minutes to the north), which is home to the acclaimed Colby Museum of Art. Both the suburbs of Gardiner and Hallowell are also known for their artistic tendencies.
The Harlow Gallery is situated within the southerly suburb town of Hallowell, less than a five-minute drive from downtown Augusta and best reached via State Street (US-27 / 201). Standing right next to the Kennebec River, this cultural attraction dates back to the early years of the 1960s and is called home by the renowned Kennebec Valley Art Association (KVAA), a not-for-profit organization boasting more than 300 individual members.
Located approximately 6 miles / 10 km to the south of Augusta city center, in the suburb of Gardiner, the Monkitree opened in 2010 and can be reached by car in just over ten minutes. Also close by is the Spring Gallery and Sculpture Garden at the Belgrade Lakes Village, where visitors can enjoy indoor exhibition spaces and a pleasant landscaped garden, adorned with contemporary style sculptures.
Harlow Gallery
Address: 160 Water Street, Hallowell, Maine (ME), 04347, USA
Tel: +1 207 622 3813
This gallery works hard to promote the creations of artists based both in Hallowell and Augusta, and throughout the state of Maine, a number of which are very much up-and-coming in the world of American art. As well as the changing exhibitions, the Harlow also plays host to 'ArtTalks' each month and holds regular workshops, which are usually well attended.
Open hours: Wednesday and Saturday - 12:00 to 18:00, Thursday and Friday - 12:00 to 20:00
Admission: free
Monkitree
Address: 263 Water Street, Gardiner, Maine (ME), 04345, USA
Tel: +1 207 512 4679
Visitors will find a real mixture of art works and locally made handicrafts for sale here, many of which make for quality souvenirs and comfortably fit into a suitcase. Along with plenty of paintings, there is also a choice of pottery pieces, ranging from handmade mugs to bowls and dishes. Textiles, ornaments and some wooden homeware items complete the main goods available for purchase.
Open hours: Tuesday to Friday - 10:00 to 18:00, Saturday - 12:00 to 18:00
Admission:
Spring Gallery and Sculpture Garden
Address: 81 Main Street, Belgrade Lakes Village, Maine (ME), 04917, USA
Tel: +1 207 495 3113
The Spring Gallery and Sculpture Garden resides within the nearby Belgrade Lakes Village, which is sited roughly 16 miles / 26 km to the north of Augusta, being reachable in around 25 minutes or thereabouts. This attraction was established at the beginning of the new millennium and visitors often come here to enjoy a picnic in the gardens, on the tables provided. Do note that the opening hours are seasonal, although if you are here during the winter months, you can simply phone ahead to arrange a private viewing.
Open hours: late May to early September, Thursday to Sunday - 11:00 to 17:00; mid-September to early October, Saturday and Sunday - 11:00 to 17:00; mid-October to mid-May - by appointment
Admission: free