River Arts in Damariscotta invites artists to submit work for the upcoming juried show, “Artist’s Choice.” Submissions are now open through Saturday, Oct. 14 at 4 p.m. This show is open to members and nonmembers alike.

River Arts is pleased to announce the juror will be artist, Melanie Essex. Essex studied painting at the New York Studio School, received a BA from Harvard University and spent a post-graduate year at the Institute National Superior des Arts in Bruxelles Belgium. She has exhibited in London and New York as well as in Maine and is in collections on both sides of the Atlantic. Alongside her studio practice, Essex curates exhibitions and has embarked on a long-form documentary film with the painter, Lois Dodd, currently in production.

After living and painting in London, England for 22 years, Melanie Essex moved back to the US in 2016, settling in Cushing where she spent most of her childhood summers. With a permanent studio now in Maine, she explains her approach to painting, “All of my work begins with looking at, then responding to, the natural world. Context is an important influence. Since coming to rural Maine, my subject matter has become more elemental than it was when I painted the London cityscape. Even though I’m now focused on nature, the influence of the constructed world – culture, politics, and community – has proven inescapable.”

“Artist’s choice” is open to all media including painting, sculpture, fiber, photography and mixed media. Artists may enter two pieces with a size limit of 20 inches (in any direction) including frame. Or artists may enter one larger piece with a size limit of 48 inches including frame.

Entry forms are available at the gallery or may be downloaded from the website: riverartsme.org. For members the entry fee is $15 and for non-members it is $30.

“Artist’s Choice” will run from Oct. 17 through Nov. 18. The opening reception will be Saturday, Oct. 21 from 2 to 4 p.m. The gallery is located at 36 Elm St. in Damariscotta. Regular hours are Tuesday through Saturday 10 a.m. -  4 p.m. For more information visit: riverartsme.org or call 563-6868.