The Central Lincoln County (CLC) YMCA is proud to announce the formation of a new program – Community Art at the Y.

Maine is noted for its vibrant arts communities and Damariscotta is no exception. With more than 4,500 members and guests expected to visit the CLC Y each year, the newly renovated facility is a perfect place to showcase the talents of local artists and children’s artwork from the Y’s 10-town service area, which includes Damariscotta, Newcastle, Bristol, South Bristol, Whitefield, Jefferson, Waldoboro, Nobleboro, Bremen and Friendship. There will be four to five exhibitions a year, with possibly one dedicated to children’s art.

CLC YMCA’s CEO Meagan Hamblett said, “The Y has become the area’s community center, a place for people to have a cup of coffee, catch up with friends, or to enjoy the ambience of a warm fire on cold mornings. The addition of artwork in the lounge area makes the space more inviting and special.”

A task force composed of local artists, community members and Y board members was created and will be responsible for selecting art that is appropriate for all ages, non-political, enhances the Y’s vibrancy, and supports the Y’s overall mission of youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility. Art submission forms can be found on the Y’s website at clcymca.org (click on the Community Art at the Y button). The task force will then review submissions as received throughout the year.

If an artist would like to sell their artwork, prices can be listed on each piece, however, it will be up to each artist to handle individual sales. A suggested 30 percent donation to the Y is recommended for any art that is sold as a result of being displayed at the Y.

Art teachers from schools located in the Y’s 10-town service area can find additional information on the Y’s website if there is interest in submitting student’s work to be displayed at the Y.

The artwork currently on display at the Y is by local artist Susan Bartlett Rice. Rice earned her BA in studio art and art history from the University of Vermont, followed by further studies at the California College of Arts and Crafts and the Rhode Island School of Design. Her oil paintings are autobiographical and reflect the contrasts, challenges and comforts of living year-round on the Maine coast.

Rice’s modern work reflects a time almost gone by. Through her paintings of local architecture, the working waterfront and family farming, she colorfully represents long-standing traditions in contemporary times. Her paintings have been exhibited and collected nationally.

The CLC YMCA is a key collaborative leader improving the quality of life for all by being the champion for youth development, healthy living and social responsibility.

For information about any of the Y's programs and events, visit clcymca.org.