The William Blake quote, “Art can never exist without naked beauty displayed” doesn’t necessarily refer solely to the human form ... or does it? That’s a discussion for another time. Boothbay Region Art Foundation’s annual “Mainely Nude” opened last weekend and there is, without a doubt, naked beauty displayed in a variety of media to explore, discuss and enjoy.

The opening reception drew fans of the show, artists with work displayed, and art lovers seeing the show for the first time. From photography to mixed media, oil and watercolor, from ceramics and granite, to Barbie and Ken dolls (no, really), the 50 pieces of art in the 2024 show should not be missed. Make a note: The show runs through March 11. 

Traditionally those attending the opening reception not only get to see the show first, they cast their vote for a People’s Choice award. Ironically, there was a tie, just like last year! The people chose Sarah Wilde’s mixed media, “Whitney” and Clark Griffin’s ceramic pitcher (or gravy boat?) “Sprout.”

The show was hung by Andre Benoit, Ann Hedgcock and Susanlora Morris. There are so many great pieces to see ... Lynne Seitzer’s “It’s just a moment – it’s not a situation ... shall we dance?” 48 x 24 oil painting from her “Myth, Memory & Monhegan” series of 11 paintings ... Love! Still.

Wilde’s “Whitney,” which features cut-out images of the final image in the interior of the body with blues and yellow and white paint swirled around it, gives off a calm, happy positive vibe surrounding the subject. Griffin’s award winner, “Sprout,” is a graceful, subtly provocative ceramic piece – a beauty, although I don’t know that I could actually use it to serve from!

Hannah Nelsbach’s “Lovely” really grabbed my attention. The mixed media woman’s hair lifts off the frame and were she not stretched out and relaxed, I would expect the rest of her to gracefully exit the frame.

Newlywed Ruth Barker, who married on the Footbridge on Valentine’s Day this year, added a delightfully funny piece featuring real Barbie and Ken dolls, nude of course, with special wedding vows that end with, no, not the traditional “til death do us part” but rather “til displacement do we part.” Made me laugh out loud. Thanks for that, Mrs. Barker!

The gallery, at 1 Townsend Ave. in downtown Boothbay Harbor, is open Thursday-Saturday 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. and Sunday 11 a.m. - 4 p.m. Don’t miss this fabulous annual show.