WMAG celebrates 50 years

NORWAY — Western Maine Art Group announces a month long celebration commemorating 50 years of living and supporting the arts, August 3-31. The Lajos Matolcsy Arts Center, located at 480 Main Street in Norway, will hold a special exhibit paying tribute to Western Maine Artists.

On exhibit will be new works of art by current Western Maine artists, Gail Rein, Nikki Millonzi, Barbara Traficonte, Pam Morra, Shirley Libby Davis, Sheridan Mclaughlin, Ron Hamilton, Francoise Fetchco, Kathy Kennedy, Leslie Baumgartell, Beth Francis, and more.

In addition there will be a special display of works from the original founding members and their friends, Lajos Matolcsy, Lee Bean, Ellie Viles, Ann Buyer, Orell Linell and more.

Western Maine Art Group has as its mission to provide opportunities for artists and artisans, to provide broad community access to original arts and to partner with others to create a prosperous cultural environment in Western Maine. The Western Maine Art Group has served this community for 50 years.

It started out as an artist group housed in the Upper Primary School House, which was the first one room schoolhouse built in Norway, in 1805. In 1962 the school house became an asset of the Western Maine Art Group as its center of operation for the arts.

Since then the WMAG has helped serve the community, filling the need for arts education giving people young and old a place to gather, create and feel important, while nurturing the arts.

For those looking to understand the history of art in Western Maine this is a comprehensive exhibit. For those looking to purchase a fine work of art or a gift, this is that opportunity.

To view these treasures visit the gallery Wednesday 9 a.m.-2 p.m., Thursday 10 a.m.-2 p.m., Friday 10 a.m.-2 p.m. and Saturday 10 a.m.-2 p.m. For more information or for a special appointment call 743-7813 or e-mail westernmaineartgroup@gmail.com. Think about using this space for a special occasion, a tea or a party.

This month you will be surrounded by treasures and you will be helping spread the word of the art heritage of Western Maine.