History
Five local Bowdoinham artists who were looking for a way to provide a resource to each other as well as a way to promote their art started the Bowdoinham Guild of Artisans in 2004. Initially, they set up three shows a year including a spring show, a presentation at Celebration Bowdoinham and the Holiday Show at the Town Hall. Over the years, other artists joined them and although there is only one of the original members still in the Guild, there are currently twenty members. This diversified group represents a wide range of artistic endeavors including: painting, fine art photography, fiber arts, woodworking, ceramics, stained glass and jewelry.
The Guild is an independent organization that is not affiliated with any other group.
Membership in the Guild is a juried process. Interested artists are asked to contact the current guild president, Lynn Sternfels via the contact form on this page with information about themselves. They are also asked to submit some digital images of their work. Selection is made in January of every year and is determined by the entire guild membership. Priority is given to those who live in Bowdoinham.
Mission Statement
The mission of the Bowdoinham Guild of Artisans is to support and encourage Bowdoinham artisans by providing a means for them to collaborate, exhibit, and sell their work, and to foster the value of art and hand-crafted works.
Objectives:
To provide a congenial group where local artisans can share interests, knowledge, skills, and support, and to encourage one another.
To contribute to and enhance the quality of life in Bowdoinham by creating an awareness and appreciation of the value of arts and hand-crafted works.
To foster and encourage the growth of arts and crafts in the Bowdoinham community.
To promote original works of arts and crafts and foster an understanding of the creative process.
To provide a means for members to display and sell their work to Bowdoinham residents and the public at large.
To provide the means for local artists and artisans to reach out and collaborate with local groups with common interests.
Activities:
Conduct the Holiday Show and Sale
Participate in Farm Day, Celebrate Bowdoinham, MAC exhibits, and other events sponsored throughout the year by other Bowdoinham community groups.
Participate in exhibitions, art walks, and art shows sponsored by surrounding towns.
Collaborate and network with local arts and crafts groups and conduct or participate in workshops and classes dealing with arts and crafts.
Display the work of members and provide information about the group on the internet.
Encourage local artists and artisans to reach out and collaborate with local groups with common interests.
