Tue, 09/19/2017 - 01:19 pm

Artist Fiona Washburn with her sarong displayed at Stable Gallery. Courtesy of Polly Smith

When she floats in her kayak, artist Fiona Washburn discovers patterns on the ocean floor. Shells, seaweed, and sunlight reflections later become the core of Fiona’s hand painted scarves’ designs. Leaves and flowers also inspire Fiona’s work.

Fiona Washburn, of Warren, is one of the featured artists in the Stable Gallery’s September-October show. A collection of her silk and velvet scarves are displayed with one of Fiona’s wall panels. The show includes ceramic vases, paintings, wooden bowls, tables, sculpture, and jewelry by other Maine based artists.

“I love how Stable Gallery shows arrange different art pieces together with complementary colors and shapes. The result is better than each item separately,” says Washburn.

Academically trained in textile design and printing, Fiona Washburn began her career designing dress fabrics. Now she paints on scarves and wall panels making useful works of art.

“Silk is a beautiful medium for painting as it conveys the dyes across the surface so smoothly,” said Washburn. “Most of my work is all hand painted, often with gold or silver outlining for accent. Painting allows for variety and accent.” The resulting scarves would enhance anyone’s outfit for a special night out.

Stable Gallery has offered Washburn’s work for nine years. Each year, the gallery adds new artists to complement the work of returning artists.

The gallery is open daily 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. The current show runs through Oct. 20 when the gallery closes for the 2017 season.

The gallery is at 26 Water Street, Damariscotta. To learn more about the gallery and participating artists, go to www.stablegallerymaine.com