benefit event

Upcoming Events

2-Part Class: Planning, Drafting and Painting a Watercolor

March 22, 2024 10:30 am - 1:30 pm

Online reservations have closed.

This is a two part class for anyone with some background in watercolor or who has taken the Color Studies and Technique class offered last month. We will be learning how to plan a more complex watercolor painting of two Sandhill Cranes in the snow based off of a photograph by Shixing Wen. Over the two classes, we will make a complete drawing and a color study for our painting, carefully transfer that image to watercolor paper using tracing paper, slowly lay in our lighter values in washes based on our color study, and then continue layering watercolors and begin to add details with a dry brush technique to work towards completing our painting. This class focuses on technique and planning to create a final painting. For students 16 and up.  Each class will be held from 10:30 am to 1:30 pm.

Amphibians in Acadia: Citizen Science Project

March 22, 2024 6:00 - 7:00 pm

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Join researcher Marisa Monroe at the Wendell Gilley Museum at 6 p.m. on Friday, March 22, to learn about her work mapping and predicting when and where amphibians cross roads in Acadia National Park – and how you can help in order to prevent amphibian mortality. Learn about the different species of amphibians in the Park, how their migrations might differ, get examples from around the world on how to mitigate mortality, and review existing data for Acadia.

Spring migration is just around the corner, and while the spectacle of that is captivating, amphibian movements during the rest of the year are largely ignored by citizen science groups. In order to provide Acadia with a broad dataset from March through October, Monroe is looking for citizen scientists to help collect data in 2024 and 2025. Monroe would love to hear from attendees about amphibian movements they have observed throughout the area.

Monroe is a student at the University of Maine, Orono, in the Department of Wildlife, Fisheries, & Conservation Biology working on her Master of Science degree. She has been working on public lands around the West since 2015. Most recently she was based out of Boulder City, Nevada, with the National Park Service working on long-term natural resource monitoring protocols throughout the Mojave and Great Basin Deserts, the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem, and the Sierra Nevada Mountains. When not out in the field, the Oregon native spends her time birding, rock climbing, hiking, and botanizing.

This event is a reprise of her Jan. 27 presentation at the Gilley. It will take place in person and online. Free but registration required.

8-Week In-Person Puffin Carving Class

March 23, 2024 9:00 am - 12:00 pm

Online reservations have closed.

Carve a puffin in this 8-week class under the guidance of the Gilley's master carver, Steve Valleau, beginning on Jan. 27. 

This class happens in-person at the Museum, from 9am to noon weekly on Saturdays. Class size is limited and registration is required.

Haiku Workshop

March 23, 2024 1:00 - 3:30 pm

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Poet and naturalist Kristen Lindquist will be with us at the Gilley on Saturday, March 23 to teach an introductory haiku workshop. She’ll share a brief history of this intriguing art form, which originated in Japan more than 500 years ago and evolved as a nature poem. Kristen will share what makes a poem a haiku (it’s probably not what you think), and how haiku are written today in the United States. Then she will guide students through writing their own haiku.

8-Week Online Puffin Carving Class

March 23, 2024 1:00 - 4:00 pm

Online reservations have closed.

Carve a puffin in this 8-week class under the guidance of the Gilley's master carver, Steve Valleau, beginning on Jan. 27. 

This is an online-only class that runs from 1-4pm weekly on Saturdays. Class size is limited and registration is required.

People-Nature-Art with Karen Zimmermann, Master Naturalist & Artist

March 26, 2024 6:00 - 8:30 pm

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Maine Master Naturalist Karen O. Zimmermann is the People-Nature-Art presenter at the Gilley for March. As a naturalist and artist, Karen creates not just for her own pleasure, but to share stories. By presenting small details in watercolor she invites viewers to look at all nature has to offer more deeply, taking home new insights that they may not otherwise have noticed, and to perhaps look differently at what is right under their feet and in their own backyard.

Inspired by naturalists including Maine botanist and illustrator Kate Furbush, Karen spends most days hiking, observing, learning about plants, and painting. She combines natural history notes with sketches from field observations, capturing the spirit of a living entity and its sense of place. For her, merging visual and verbal is a way to gain an understanding of the plant or animal in front of her, and its place in the world around us.

On March 26 at the Gilley, she will share how drawing is a way to deepen one’s understanding of nature, and to see details often overlooked. In addition to being a Maine Master Naturalist, Karen is a Registered Maine Guide, watercolorist, and nature journal instructor.

Bird Chatter: Discussion & Observations

March 29, 2024 10:30 am - 12:30 pm

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Flock to the Gilley for a fun and informative few hours with Seth Benz, the bird ecology director at Schoodic Institute. Seth will delve into research and share current sightings and insights. Bring your own questions and curiosity, a favorite bird-related reading, or your latest observations. Depending on weather, the group might go for a bird-sighting walk outside.

Creation Club

March 30, 2024 5:00 - 7:00 pm

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Come hang out Saturday night at the Gilley and get creative! Use our materials or BYOP (bring your own project) at this open-studio style community club. Each session we'll have a still life, carved bird sculptures, and a clothed model (for a limited amount of time, though more if anyone feels like volunteering here and there!). Stop by any time between 5pm and 8pm to enjoy refreshments (BYOB) and a casual, artistic atmosphere with fellow creators and crafters! 

Materials available and welcome:

Pencils, colored pencils, markers, ink, watercolor, acrylic paint, collage, gelli printing, wood carving, mixed media, crochet/knitting.

Materials unfortunately not welcome:

Oil paint, clay, particularly messy mixed media

Paper and yarn is available for use but not canvases nor crochet/sewing needles - so feel free to bring your own if that's what you'd like to work on! Charcoal and chalk pastel are welcome but not provided. 

Nature Gelli Printing

April 5, 2024 10:30 am - 12:30 pm

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Create your own layered nature print using natural materials and cut paper. Gelli plates are reusable and made from gelatin and allow you to create layered prints by hand.  This class is fun for all ages. Artist Juliana Ramirez will lead you through the process of inking the gelli plate, creating an image, and making your prints.  

 

Paint 'n' Sip: Monochromatic Landscape Painting

April 5, 2024 4:00 - 6:00 pm

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When we take away the options of various colors, we are left with a simple task of using value to create form. A monochromatic painting uses one color in various values or shades to create an image. This makes the watercolor painting process much easier to approach. Students will be guided step by step to create an image of layered mountains and trees in the foreground, choosing one shade of blue for their painting.

Sip on wine, tea or seltzer as part of this adults-only class, which is suitable for artists of all levels who are at least 21 years old. All materials and beverages provided.

Bas Relief Workshop-3/2 & 4/6

April 6, 2024 10:30 am - 12:30 pm

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Join Kathie Pratt and work in clay to create a nature-themed bas relief that you’ll be able to complete and take home that day.

Artists create a bas-relief by sculpting onto a 2-D plane to create and accentuate figures and objects, producing a 3-D appearance. We’ll be using polymer clay and baking it off, then painting it.

Class size is limited.

Intro Carving Class - Winter Mornings

April 12, 2024 10:30 am - 12:00 pm

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Learn carving with the Gilley’s master carver, Steve Valleau, who has been sharing this art with students at the museum for 38 years. This 1.5-hour class, suitable for beginners, comes with a kit that includes a bird blank and paints. Tools are available to borrow. Learn the basics of this classic American art form, and leave with something you create.

Students must be at least 11 years old. Class size limited to 4.

Intro Carving Class-Winter Afternoons

April 12, 2024 1:30 - 3:00 pm

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Learn carving with the Gilley’s master carver, Steve Valleau, who has been sharing this art with students at the museum for 38 years. This 1.5-hour class, suitable for beginners, comes with a kit that includes a bird blank and paints. Tools are available to borrow. Learn the basics of this classic American art form, and leave with something you create.

Students must be at least 11 years old. Class size limited to 4.

Bee House Workshop

April 13, 2024 10:30 am - 12:00 pm

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Build a bee house for non-stinging Mason bees and leaf-cutter bees in this special workshop. In these bee houses, the cavities are 5-inch-deep drilled holes — deep enough, we hope, to be safe from a woodpecker tongue. This is a great family project. All materials provided. Participants must be at least 7. This is an in-person program led by Juliana Ramirez, the Gilley's Staff Artist.

All-Ages Paint 'n' Sip: The Cat at Night

April 13, 2024 1:30 - 3:30 pm

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Paint a canvas inspired by Dahlov Ipcar’s book, The Cat at Night. Students will be given a canvas that is pre-painted in black and led through a series of steps to create their own version of a cat at night. We will have copies of Ipcar’s beautiful book to browse, so students can choose the illustration they would like to paint. These paintings will be done using acrylics, so wear clothes you don’t mind getting paint on! Suitable for adults and kids ages 5 and up. Snacks and non-alcoholic beverages provided.

Six Months in the Field: One Biologist and the Birds she Observed

April 19, 2024 5:30 - 6:30 pm

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Juliana Ramirez spent the summer of 2023 observing and recording data on breeding puffins, razorbills, cormorants, terns, storm petrels and more as a Research Assistant with Audubon's Seabird Institute on Seal Island National Wildlife Refuge. Then she spent part of the fall working as the Resident Bander for Project Owlnet at Petit Manan Point, helping to collect data on Northern Saw-whet Owls. In this presentation on Friday, April 19, she'll share her experiences, and photographs of the birds, along with explaining how the data she helped collect will connect to the projects’ research as a whole. She’ll also discuss the organizations she worked for, and talk about the species she observed. The program starts at 5:30pm and will be held in person at the Gilley. Free, but registration is required.

Sensory Walk

April 20, 2024 10:30 am - 12:00 pm

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Take some time to truly engage your senses with Camp Beech Cliff's Matt Cornish as he leads participants on a short Sensory Walk to be active, connect with familiar surroundings in new ways, and see what can be discovered in nature. Our five senses can enhance our experiences of the natural world if we take the time to let them.  We’ll gather at the Gilley then head out to a local trail, stopping along the way to engage, observe and enjoy. Fee is $14 for non-members and $10 for members. Registration required.

Wingspan Game Day at the Gilley

April 20, 2024 1:00 - 3:30 pm

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Wingspan is one of the bestselling board games in the world, and the Gilley is hosting our own Wingspan Game Day on every third Saturday of our Winter Session, which runs from January through April from 1:00 to 3:30pm. This is a favorite with families.

You don't have to know anything about birds to have fun playing Wingspan, but you'll probably learn some fun facts as you play. In the game, players work to attract the best birds to their wildlife preserve habitats – forest, field or wetland – with food, nesting opportunities and other actions. No fee, but registration is required.

People-Nature-Art with Jennifer Moxley, Poet & Essayist

April 23, 2024 7:00 - 8:30 pm

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A California native, Jennifer has taught at the University of Maine-Orono since 2000 where she has served as Director of Creative Writing, co-advisor to The Open Field, and Coordinator of Undergraduate Studies.  She is an award-winning poet and author of seven books of poetry, a book of essays, and a memoir. Her work has been included in two Norton Anthologies and in The Best American Poetry 2002. In 2005 she was granted the Lynda Hull Poetry Award from Denver Quarterly, and in 2015 her book The Open Secret was awarded the Poetry Society of America’s William Carlos Williams award and was a finalist for the Kingsley Tufts Poetry Award. For this PNA, she will be discussing her book For the Good of All, Do Not Destroy the Birds, a blend of literary criticism and memoir that recounts a life spent in the company of birds and poems, intimately attuned to the mysteries of singing.

This will be an in-person event, but can also be attended online. We will send a Zoom link to those who choose the online option when reserving space. There will be an artist reception at 6pm.

People-Nature-Art is a monthly series that brings artists, writers, carvers, and creative types of all kinds to the Gilley to explore how nature and art interact in their work, and how their art impacts their own approach to nature.

 

Photography Workshop in Acadia

April 25, 2024 4:30 am - 7:30 pm

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Join professional photographer J.K. Putnam for this full-day workshop on April 25 from approximately 4:30am to 7:30pm. It is designed to maximize learning opportunities and provide guidance on creating the kind of images you want to create. From sunrise to sunset, you will alternate between traveling around Acadia National Park taking photos, and classroom time at the Wendell Gilley Museum where students will discuss a range of topics that lead to successful, self-expressive image-making. There will also be individual instruction based on your goals and your questions.

The instructor says: What do I mean when I say, self-expression? Am I talking about art? To be honest I struggle with calling myself an artist. I’m uncomfortable with that title. I’m a photographer. Photographer is a very comfortable title for me. But if I want my photography to be personal, I need to express my emotions, my thoughts, and the stories I want to tell through my imagery. I want to express to you, the viewer, how I connect with the subjects that I photograph.

The cost is $150 for Museum members and $175 for non-members. Spaces are limited. Registration is required.

Bird Chatter: Discussion & Observations

April 26, 2024 10:30 am - 12:30 pm

Reserve now

Flock to the Gilley for a fun and informative few hours with Seth Benz, the bird ecology director at Schoodic Institute. Seth will delve into research and share current sightings and insights. Bring your own questions and curiosity, a favorite bird-related reading, or your latest observations. Depending on weather, the group might go for a bird-sighting walk outside.

Cyanotype Workshop with Jenn Booher

April 27, 2024 10:30 am - 12:30 pm

Reserve now

Cyanotype, also called sun-printing, is an early photographic process that produces blue and white prints. It is usually done in bright sunlight, but can also produce beautiful images on overcast days, and can be done indoors with a specialized UV light. You’ll have a chance to try both sunlight and artificial light.

In this 2-hour workshop, we will work with 5x7 watercolor paper and will use a variety of objects, including feathers, dried ferns, evergreen branches, paper snowflakes, and chandelier prisms to make winter woodland-inspired scenes.

Jennifer Booher is an artist and photographer from Bar Harbor. She has been a Resident Artist with Acadia National Park since 2015, and artist-in-residence with the MDI Historical Society since 2018.

Bird Chatter: Discussion & Observations

May 3, 2024 10:30 am - 12:30 pm

Reserve now

Flock to the Gilley for a fun and informative few hours with Seth Benz, the bird ecology director at Schoodic Institute. Seth will delve into research and share current sightings and insights. Bring your own questions and curiosity, a favorite bird-related reading, or your latest observations. Depending on weather, the group might go for a bird-sighting walk outside.

Bas Relief Jars

May 18, 2024 10:30 am - 12:30 pm

Reserve now

Join Kathie Pratt and work in clay to create a nature-themed bas relief that you’ll be able to complete and take home that day.

Artists create a bas-relief by sculpting onto a 2-D plane to create and accentuate figures and objects, producing a 3-D appearance. We’ll be using polymer clay and baking it off, then painting it. Then, students will be shaping them around glass jars to make a decorative container.

Class size is limited.

People-Nature-Art with Marc Fink, Printmaker and Painter

May 21, 2024 7:00 - 8:30 pm

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Marc's art depicts mostly maritime or mountain themes, as this is where he spends most of his time enjoying the outdoors. An artist for most of his life, he holds bachelor's and master's degrees in fine art. Marc spends much of the year traveling, sometimes doing weekend art festivals, and exhibiting through select galleries. Traveling overseas enhances his artist's perspectives of the world. Marc also produces The Bar Harbor Fine Arts Festivals.

This will be an in-person event, but can also be attended online. We will send a Zoom link to those who choose the online option when reserving space. There will be an artist reception at 6pm.

People-Nature-Art is a monthly series that brings artists, writers, carvers, and creative types of all kinds to the Gilley to explore how nature and art interact in their work, and how their art impacts their own approach to nature.

Family Cyanotype Workshop with Jenn Booher

June 8, 2024 12:00 - 2:00 pm

Reserve now

Cyanotype, also called sun-printing, is an early photographic process that produces blue and white prints. It is usually done in bright sunlight, but can also produce beautiful images on overcast days, and can be done indoors with a specialized UV light. You’ll have a chance to try both sunlight and artificial light.

In this 2-hour workshop, we will work with 5x7 watercolor paper and will use a variety of objects, including feathers, dried ferns, evergreen branches, paper snowflakes, and chandelier prisms to make woodland-inspired scenes.  This class is suitable for all ages and fun for the whole family.

Jennifer Booher is an artist and photographer from Bar Harbor. She has been a Resident Artist with Acadia National Park since 2015, and artist-in-residence with the MDI Historical Society since 2018.

Intro to Bird Carving

June 18, 2024 10:30 am - 12:00 pm

Online reservations open on June 3, 2024.

Learn the basics of bird carving at the Gilley! This 1.5-hour class, suitable for beginners, comes with a kit that includes a bird blank and paints. Tools are available to borrow. You'll have fun and leave with something you create.

Students must be at least 11 years old; those 12 and younger must be accompanied by an adult.

Cost: $35 for non-members or $28 for members (a 20% discount off the regular price). To become a member, visit our membership page HERE.

Class size limited to 4.

Intro to Bird Carving

June 18, 2024 1:30 - 3:00 pm

Online reservations open on June 3, 2024.

Learn the basics of bird carving at the Gilley! This 1.5-hour class, suitable for beginners, comes with a kit that includes a bird blank and paints. Tools are available to borrow. You'll have fun and leave with something you create.

Students must be at least 11 years old; those 12 and younger must be accompanied by an adult.

Cost: $35 for non-members or $28 for members (a 20% discount off the regular price). To become a member, visit our membership page HERE.

Class size limited to 4.

People-Nature-Art with Rick Alley, Jr., Duck Stamp Painter

June 18, 2024 7:00 - 8:30 pm

Reserve now

A multiple-time winner of the Maine Duck Stamp contest, Rick was born and raised on Little Cranberry Island, where he lives today lobstering, fishing and scalloping when he’s not painting. The majority of his work is of seabirds and wildlife. In his realistic style, Rick captures the mood of the sea in a way only a man who has grown up on the water can do. His pictures depict the Maine coast with astounding accuracy. His paintings have been selected for the Wildlife Art Show, Governor’s Gallery, at the Maine State House in Augusta.

This will be an in-person event, but can also be attended online. We will send a Zoom link to those who choose the online option when reserving space. There will be an artist reception at 6pm.

People-Nature-Art is a monthly series that brings artists, writers, carvers, and creative types of all kinds to the Gilley to explore how nature and art interact in their work, and how their art impacts their own approach to nature.

Intro to Bird Carving

June 20, 2024 10:30 am - 12:00 pm

Online reservations open on June 3, 2024 at 4:00 am.

Learn the basics of bird carving at the Gilley! This 1.5-hour class, suitable for beginners, comes with a kit that includes a bird blank and paints. Tools are available to borrow. You'll have fun and leave with something you create.

Students must be at least 11 years old; those 12 and younger must be accompanied by an adult.

Cost: $35 for non-members or $28 for members (a 20% discount off the regular price). To become a member, visit our membership page HERE.

Class size limited to 4.

Intro to Bird Carving

June 20, 2024 1:30 - 3:00 pm

Online reservations open on June 3, 2024.

Learn the basics of bird carving at the Gilley! This 1.5-hour class, suitable for beginners, comes with a kit that includes a bird blank and paints. Tools are available to borrow. You'll have fun and leave with something you create.

Students must be at least 11 years old; those 12 and younger must be accompanied by an adult.

Cost: $35 for non-members or $28 for members (a 20% discount off the regular price). To become a member, visit our membership page HERE.

Class size limited to 4.

Intro to Bird Carving

June 25, 2024 10:30 am - 12:00 pm

Online reservations open on June 3, 2024 at 4:00 am.

Learn the basics of bird carving at the Gilley! This 1.5-hour class, suitable for beginners, comes with a kit that includes a bird blank and paints. Tools are available to borrow. You'll have fun and leave with something you create.

Students must be at least 11 years old; those 12 and younger must be accompanied by an adult.

Cost: $35 for non-members or $28 for members (a 20% discount off the regular price). To become a member, visit our membership page HERE.

Class size limited to 4.

Intro to Bird Carving

June 25, 2024 1:30 - 3:00 pm

Online reservations open on June 3, 2024.

Learn the basics of bird carving at the Gilley! This 1.5-hour class, suitable for beginners, comes with a kit that includes a bird blank and paints. Tools are available to borrow. You'll have fun and leave with something you create.

Students must be at least 11 years old; those 12 and younger must be accompanied by an adult.

Cost: $35 for non-members or $28 for members (a 20% discount off the regular price). To become a member, visit our membership page HERE.

Class size limited to 4.

Intro to Bird Carving

June 27, 2024 10:30 am - 12:00 pm

Online reservations open on June 3, 2024 at 4:00 am.

Learn the basics of bird carving at the Gilley! This 1.5-hour class, suitable for beginners, comes with a kit that includes a bird blank and paints. Tools are available to borrow. You'll have fun and leave with something you create.

Students must be at least 11 years old; those 12 and younger must be accompanied by an adult.

Cost: $35 for non-members or $28 for members (a 20% discount off the regular price). To become a member, visit our membership page HERE.

Class size limited to 4.

Intro to Bird Carving

June 27, 2024 1:30 - 3:00 pm

Online reservations open on June 3, 2024.

Learn the basics of bird carving at the Gilley! This 1.5-hour class, suitable for beginners, comes with a kit that includes a bird blank and paints. Tools are available to borrow. You'll have fun and leave with something you create.

Students must be at least 11 years old; those 12 and younger must be accompanied by an adult.

Cost: $35 for non-members or $28 for members (a 20% discount off the regular price). To become a member, visit our membership page HERE.

Class size limited to 4.

Intro to Bird Carving

July 2, 2024 10:30 am - 12:00 pm

Online reservations open on June 3, 2024 at 4:00 am.

Learn the basics of bird carving at the Gilley! This 1.5-hour class, suitable for beginners, comes with a kit that includes a bird blank and paints. Tools are available to borrow. You'll have fun and leave with something you create.

Students must be at least 11 years old; those 12 and younger must be accompanied by an adult.

Cost: $35 for non-members or $28 for members (a 20% discount off the regular price). To become a member, visit our membership page HERE.

Class size limited to 4.

Intro to Bird Carving

July 2, 2024 1:30 - 3:00 pm

Online reservations open on June 3, 2024.

Learn the basics of bird carving at the Gilley! This 1.5-hour class, suitable for beginners, comes with a kit that includes a bird blank and paints. Tools are available to borrow. You'll have fun and leave with something you create.

Students must be at least 11 years old; those 12 and younger must be accompanied by an adult.

Cost: $35 for non-members or $28 for members (a 20% discount off the regular price). To become a member, visit our membership page HERE.

Class size limited to 4.

Intro to Bird Carving

July 9, 2024 10:30 am - 12:00 pm

Online reservations open on June 3, 2024 at 4:00 am.

Learn the basics of bird carving at the Gilley! This 1.5-hour class, suitable for beginners, comes with a kit that includes a bird blank and paints. Tools are available to borrow. You'll have fun and leave with something you create.

Students must be at least 11 years old; those 12 and younger must be accompanied by an adult.

Cost: $35 for non-members or $28 for members (a 20% discount off the regular price). To become a member, visit our membership page HERE.

Class size limited to 4.

Intro to Bird Carving

July 9, 2024 1:30 - 3:00 pm

Online reservations open on June 3, 2024.

Learn the basics of bird carving at the Gilley! This 1.5-hour class, suitable for beginners, comes with a kit that includes a bird blank and paints. Tools are available to borrow. You'll have fun and leave with something you create.

Students must be at least 11 years old; those 12 and younger must be accompanied by an adult.

Cost: $35 for non-members or $28 for members (a 20% discount off the regular price). To become a member, visit our membership page HERE.

Class size limited to 4.

Intro to Bird Carving

July 11, 2024 10:30 am - 12:00 pm

Online reservations open on June 3, 2024 at 4:00 am.

Learn the basics of bird carving at the Gilley! This 1.5-hour class, suitable for beginners, comes with a kit that includes a bird blank and paints. Tools are available to borrow. You'll have fun and leave with something you create.

Students must be at least 11 years old; those 12 and younger must be accompanied by an adult.

Cost: $35 for non-members or $28 for members (a 20% discount off the regular price). To become a member, visit our membership page HERE.

Class size limited to 4.

Intro to Bird Carving

July 11, 2024 1:30 - 3:00 pm

Online reservations open on June 3, 2024.

Learn the basics of bird carving at the Gilley! This 1.5-hour class, suitable for beginners, comes with a kit that includes a bird blank and paints. Tools are available to borrow. You'll have fun and leave with something you create.

Students must be at least 11 years old; those 12 and younger must be accompanied by an adult.

Cost: $35 for non-members or $28 for members (a 20% discount off the regular price). To become a member, visit our membership page HERE.

Class size limited to 4.

Intro to Bird Carving

July 16, 2024 10:30 am - 12:00 pm

Online reservations open on June 3, 2024 at 4:00 am.

Learn the basics of bird carving at the Gilley! This 1.5-hour class, suitable for beginners, comes with a kit that includes a bird blank and paints. Tools are available to borrow. You'll have fun and leave with something you create.

Students must be at least 11 years old; those 12 and younger must be accompanied by an adult.

Cost: $35 for non-members or $28 for members (a 20% discount off the regular price). To become a member, visit our membership page HERE.

Class size limited to 4.

Intro to Bird Carving

July 16, 2024 1:30 - 3:00 pm

Online reservations open on June 3, 2024.

Learn the basics of bird carving at the Gilley! This 1.5-hour class, suitable for beginners, comes with a kit that includes a bird blank and paints. Tools are available to borrow. You'll have fun and leave with something you create.

Students must be at least 11 years old; those 12 and younger must be accompanied by an adult.

Cost: $35 for non-members or $28 for members (a 20% discount off the regular price). To become a member, visit our membership page HERE.

Class size limited to 4.

Intro to Bird Carving

July 18, 2024 10:30 am - 12:00 pm

Online reservations open on June 3, 2024 at 4:00 am.

Learn the basics of bird carving at the Gilley! This 1.5-hour class, suitable for beginners, comes with a kit that includes a bird blank and paints. Tools are available to borrow. You'll have fun and leave with something you create.

Students must be at least 11 years old; those 12 and younger must be accompanied by an adult.

Cost: $35 for non-members or $28 for members (a 20% discount off the regular price). To become a member, visit our membership page HERE.

Class size limited to 4.

Intro to Bird Carving

July 18, 2024 1:30 - 3:00 pm

Online reservations open on June 3, 2024.

Learn the basics of bird carving at the Gilley! This 1.5-hour class, suitable for beginners, comes with a kit that includes a bird blank and paints. Tools are available to borrow. You'll have fun and leave with something you create.

Students must be at least 11 years old; those 12 and younger must be accompanied by an adult.

Cost: $35 for non-members or $28 for members (a 20% discount off the regular price). To become a member, visit our membership page HERE.

Class size limited to 4.

Family Cyanotype Workshop with Jenn Booher

July 20, 2024 12:00 - 2:00 pm

Reserve now

Cyanotype, also called sun-printing, is an early photographic process that produces blue and white prints. It is usually done in bright sunlight, but can also produce beautiful images on overcast days, and can be done indoors with a specialized UV light. You’ll have a chance to try both sunlight and artificial light.

In this 2-hour workshop, we will work with 5x7 watercolor paper and will use a variety of objects, including feathers, dried ferns, evergreen branches, paper snowflakes, and chandelier prisms to make woodland-inspired scenes.  This class is suitable for all ages and fun for the whole family.

Jennifer Booher is an artist and photographer from Bar Harbor. She has been a Resident Artist with Acadia National Park since 2015, and artist-in-residence with the MDI Historical Society since 2018.

Intro to Bird Carving

July 23, 2024 10:30 am - 12:00 pm

Online reservations open on June 3, 2024 at 4:00 am.

Learn the basics of bird carving at the Gilley! This 1.5-hour class, suitable for beginners, comes with a kit that includes a bird blank and paints. Tools are available to borrow. You'll have fun and leave with something you create.

Students must be at least 11 years old; those 12 and younger must be accompanied by an adult.

Cost: $35 for non-members or $28 for members (a 20% discount off the regular price). To become a member, visit our membership page HERE.

Class size limited to 4.

Intro to Bird Carving

July 23, 2024 1:30 - 3:00 pm

Online reservations open on June 3, 2024.

Learn the basics of bird carving at the Gilley! This 1.5-hour class, suitable for beginners, comes with a kit that includes a bird blank and paints. Tools are available to borrow. You'll have fun and leave with something you create.

Students must be at least 11 years old; those 12 and younger must be accompanied by an adult.

Cost: $35 for non-members or $28 for members (a 20% discount off the regular price). To become a member, visit our membership page HERE.

Class size limited to 4.

People-Nature-Art with Gina Sawin, Painter

July 23, 2024 7:00 - 8:30 pm

Reserve now

Gina lives and paints on a farm in Maine, specializing in translating bird flight to a two-dimensional canvas. Painting large bird groups allows her to explore both formal aspects of representation in the modernist tradition and express her concerns for ecological continuity. She aims to capture the abstract patterns created by birds in a moment of flight, while keeping them in a real and distant space.

This will be an in-person event, but can also be attended online. We will send a Zoom link to those who choose the online option when reserving space. There will be an artist reception at 6pm.

People-Nature-Art is a monthly series that brings artists, writers, carvers, and creative types of all kinds to the Gilley to explore how nature and art interact in their work, and how their art impacts their own approach to nature.

Intro to Bird Carving

July 25, 2024 10:30 am - 12:00 pm

Online reservations open on June 3, 2024 at 4:00 am.

Learn the basics of bird carving at the Gilley! This 1.5-hour class, suitable for beginners, comes with a kit that includes a bird blank and paints. Tools are available to borrow. You'll have fun and leave with something you create.

Students must be at least 11 years old; those 12 and younger must be accompanied by an adult.

Cost: $35 for non-members or $28 for members (a 20% discount off the regular price). To become a member, visit our membership page HERE.

Class size limited to 4.

Intro to Bird Carving

July 25, 2024 1:30 - 3:00 pm

Online reservations open on June 3, 2024.

Learn the basics of bird carving at the Gilley! This 1.5-hour class, suitable for beginners, comes with a kit that includes a bird blank and paints. Tools are available to borrow. You'll have fun and leave with something you create.

Students must be at least 11 years old; those 12 and younger must be accompanied by an adult.

Cost: $35 for non-members or $28 for members (a 20% discount off the regular price). To become a member, visit our membership page HERE.

Class size limited to 4.

Intro to Bird Carving

July 30, 2024 10:30 am - 12:00 pm

Online reservations open on June 3, 2024 at 4:00 am.

Learn the basics of bird carving at the Gilley! This 1.5-hour class, suitable for beginners, comes with a kit that includes a bird blank and paints. Tools are available to borrow. You'll have fun and leave with something you create.

Students must be at least 11 years old; those 12 and younger must be accompanied by an adult.

Cost: $35 for non-members or $28 for members (a 20% discount off the regular price). To become a member, visit our membership page HERE.

Class size limited to 4.

Intro to Bird Carving

July 30, 2024 1:30 - 3:00 pm

Online reservations open on June 3, 2024.

Learn the basics of bird carving at the Gilley! This 1.5-hour class, suitable for beginners, comes with a kit that includes a bird blank and paints. Tools are available to borrow. You'll have fun and leave with something you create.

Students must be at least 11 years old; those 12 and younger must be accompanied by an adult.

Cost: $35 for non-members or $28 for members (a 20% discount off the regular price). To become a member, visit our membership page HERE.

Class size limited to 4.

Cyanotype and Sip Workshop

July 31, 2024 6:00 - 8:00 pm

Reserve now

Cyanotype, also called sun-printing, is an early photographic process that produces blue and white prints. It is usually done in bright sunlight, but can also produce beautiful images on overcast days, and can be done indoors with a specialized UV light. You’ll have a chance to try both sunlight and artificial light.

In this 2-hour workshop, we will work with 5x7 watercolor paper and will use a variety of objects, including feathers, dried ferns, evergreen branches, paper snowflakes, and chandelier prisms to make woodland-inspired scenes.  

Sip on wine, tea or seltzer as part of this adults-only class, which is suitable for artists of all levels who are at least 21 years old. All materials and beverages provided.

Jennifer Booher is an artist and photographer from Bar Harbor. She has been a Resident Artist with Acadia National Park since 2015, and artist-in-residence with the MDI Historical Society since 2018.

Intro to Bird Carving

August 1, 2024 10:30 am - 12:00 pm

Online reservations open on June 3, 2024 at 4:00 am.

Learn the basics of bird carving at the Gilley! This 1.5-hour class, suitable for beginners, comes with a kit that includes a bird blank and paints. Tools are available to borrow. You'll have fun and leave with something you create.

Students must be at least 11 years old; those 12 and younger must be accompanied by an adult.

Cost: $35 for non-members or $28 for members (a 20% discount off the regular price). To become a member, visit our membership page HERE.

Class size limited to 4.

Intro to Bird Carving

August 1, 2024 1:30 - 3:00 pm

Online reservations open on June 3, 2024.

Learn the basics of bird carving at the Gilley! This 1.5-hour class, suitable for beginners, comes with a kit that includes a bird blank and paints. Tools are available to borrow. You'll have fun and leave with something you create.

Students must be at least 11 years old; those 12 and younger must be accompanied by an adult.

Cost: $35 for non-members or $28 for members (a 20% discount off the regular price). To become a member, visit our membership page HERE.

Class size limited to 4.

Family Cyanotype Workshop with Jenn Booher

August 3, 2024 12:00 - 2:00 pm

Reserve now

Cyanotype, also called sun-printing, is an early photographic process that produces blue and white prints. It is usually done in bright sunlight, but can also produce beautiful images on overcast days, and can be done indoors with a specialized UV light. You’ll have a chance to try both sunlight and artificial light.

In this 2-hour workshop, we will work with 5x7 watercolor paper and will use a variety of objects, including feathers, dried ferns, evergreen branches, paper snowflakes, and chandelier prisms to make woodland-inspired scenes.  This class is suitable for all ages and fun for the whole family.

Jennifer Booher is an artist and photographer from Bar Harbor. She has been a Resident Artist with Acadia National Park since 2015, and artist-in-residence with the MDI Historical Society since 2018.

Intro to Bird Carving

August 6, 2024 10:30 am - 12:00 pm

Online reservations open on June 3, 2024 at 4:00 am.

Learn the basics of bird carving at the Gilley! This 1.5-hour class, suitable for beginners, comes with a kit that includes a bird blank and paints. Tools are available to borrow. You'll have fun and leave with something you create.

Students must be at least 11 years old; those 12 and younger must be accompanied by an adult.

Cost: $35 for non-members or $28 for members (a 20% discount off the regular price). To become a member, visit our membership page HERE.

Class size limited to 4.

Intro to Bird Carving

August 6, 2024 1:30 - 3:00 pm

Online reservations open on June 3, 2024.

Learn the basics of bird carving at the Gilley! This 1.5-hour class, suitable for beginners, comes with a kit that includes a bird blank and paints. Tools are available to borrow. You'll have fun and leave with something you create.

Students must be at least 11 years old; those 12 and younger must be accompanied by an adult.

Cost: $35 for non-members or $28 for members (a 20% discount off the regular price). To become a member, visit our membership page HERE.

Class size limited to 4.

Intro to Bird Carving

August 8, 2024 10:30 am - 12:00 pm

Online reservations open on June 3, 2024 at 4:00 am.

Learn the basics of bird carving at the Gilley! This 1.5-hour class, suitable for beginners, comes with a kit that includes a bird blank and paints. Tools are available to borrow. You'll have fun and leave with something you create.

Students must be at least 11 years old; those 12 and younger must be accompanied by an adult.

Cost: $35 for non-members or $28 for members (a 20% discount off the regular price). To become a member, visit our membership page HERE.

Class size limited to 4.

Intro to Bird Carving

August 8, 2024 1:30 - 3:00 pm

Online reservations open on June 3, 2024.

Learn the basics of bird carving at the Gilley! This 1.5-hour class, suitable for beginners, comes with a kit that includes a bird blank and paints. Tools are available to borrow. You'll have fun and leave with something you create.

Students must be at least 11 years old; those 12 and younger must be accompanied by an adult.

Cost: $35 for non-members or $28 for members (a 20% discount off the regular price). To become a member, visit our membership page HERE.

Class size limited to 4.

Intro to Bird Carving

August 13, 2024 10:30 am - 12:00 pm

Online reservations open on June 3, 2024 at 4:00 am.

Learn the basics of bird carving at the Gilley! This 1.5-hour class, suitable for beginners, comes with a kit that includes a bird blank and paints. Tools are available to borrow. You'll have fun and leave with something you create.

Students must be at least 11 years old; those 12 and younger must be accompanied by an adult.

Cost: $35 for non-members or $28 for members (a 20% discount off the regular price). To become a member, visit our membership page HERE.

Class size limited to 4.

Intro to Bird Carving

August 13, 2024 1:30 - 3:00 pm

Online reservations open on June 3, 2024.

Learn the basics of bird carving at the Gilley! This 1.5-hour class, suitable for beginners, comes with a kit that includes a bird blank and paints. Tools are available to borrow. You'll have fun and leave with something you create.

Students must be at least 11 years old; those 12 and younger must be accompanied by an adult.

Cost: $35 for non-members or $28 for members (a 20% discount off the regular price). To become a member, visit our membership page HERE.

Class size limited to 4.

People-Nature-Art with Matt Aeberhard, Documentary Filmmaker

August 13, 2024 7:00 - 8:30 pm

Reserve now

Matt is one of the world’s leading wildlife filmmakers and an Emmy-nominated and award-winning wildlife cinematographer. He has spent his professional life working in our planet’s most remote and wild places. His current project is Birds of America, a feature film with an ambitious conservation agenda that seeks to fundamentally change the way we look at and engage with the natural world in the face of climate change and habitat loss.

This will be an in-person event, but can also be attended online. We will send a Zoom link to those who choose the online option when reserving space. There will be an artist reception at 6pm.

People-Nature-Art is a monthly series that brings artists, writers, carvers, and creative types of all kinds to the Gilley to explore how nature and art interact in their work, and how their art impacts their own approach to nature.

Intro to Bird Carving

August 15, 2024 10:30 am - 12:00 pm

Online reservations open on June 3, 2024 at 4:00 am.

Learn the basics of bird carving at the Gilley! This 1.5-hour class, suitable for beginners, comes with a kit that includes a bird blank and paints. Tools are available to borrow. You'll have fun and leave with something you create.

Students must be at least 11 years old; those 12 and younger must be accompanied by an adult.

Cost: $35 for non-members or $28 for members (a 20% discount off the regular price). To become a member, visit our membership page HERE.

Class size limited to 4.

Intro to Bird Carving

August 15, 2024 1:30 - 3:00 pm

Online reservations open on June 3, 2024.

Learn the basics of bird carving at the Gilley! This 1.5-hour class, suitable for beginners, comes with a kit that includes a bird blank and paints. Tools are available to borrow. You'll have fun and leave with something you create.

Students must be at least 11 years old; those 12 and younger must be accompanied by an adult.

Cost: $35 for non-members or $28 for members (a 20% discount off the regular price). To become a member, visit our membership page HERE.

Class size limited to 4.

Intro to Bird Carving

August 20, 2024 10:30 am - 12:00 pm

Online reservations open on June 3, 2024 at 4:00 am.

Learn the basics of bird carving at the Gilley! This 1.5-hour class, suitable for beginners, comes with a kit that includes a bird blank and paints. Tools are available to borrow. You'll have fun and leave with something you create.

Students must be at least 11 years old; those 12 and younger must be accompanied by an adult.

Cost: $35 for non-members or $28 for members (a 20% discount off the regular price). To become a member, visit our membership page HERE.

Class size limited to 4.

Intro to Bird Carving

August 20, 2024 1:30 - 3:00 pm

Online reservations open on June 3, 2024.

Learn the basics of bird carving at the Gilley! This 1.5-hour class, suitable for beginners, comes with a kit that includes a bird blank and paints. Tools are available to borrow. You'll have fun and leave with something you create.

Students must be at least 11 years old; those 12 and younger must be accompanied by an adult.

Cost: $35 for non-members or $28 for members (a 20% discount off the regular price). To become a member, visit our membership page HERE.

Class size limited to 4.

Intro to Bird Carving

August 22, 2024 10:30 am - 12:00 pm

Online reservations open on June 3, 2024 at 4:00 am.

Learn the basics of bird carving at the Gilley! This 1.5-hour class, suitable for beginners, comes with a kit that includes a bird blank and paints. Tools are available to borrow. You'll have fun and leave with something you create.

Students must be at least 11 years old; those 12 and younger must be accompanied by an adult.

Cost: $35 for non-members or $28 for members (a 20% discount off the regular price). To become a member, visit our membership page HERE.

Class size limited to 4.

Intro to Bird Carving

August 22, 2024 1:30 - 3:00 pm

Online reservations open on June 3, 2024.

Learn the basics of bird carving at the Gilley! This 1.5-hour class, suitable for beginners, comes with a kit that includes a bird blank and paints. Tools are available to borrow. You'll have fun and leave with something you create.

Students must be at least 11 years old; those 12 and younger must be accompanied by an adult.

Cost: $35 for non-members or $28 for members (a 20% discount off the regular price). To become a member, visit our membership page HERE.

Class size limited to 4.

Intro to Bird Carving

August 27, 2024 10:30 am - 12:00 pm

Online reservations open on June 3, 2024 at 4:00 am.

Learn the basics of bird carving at the Gilley! This 1.5-hour class, suitable for beginners, comes with a kit that includes a bird blank and paints. Tools are available to borrow. You'll have fun and leave with something you create.

Students must be at least 11 years old; those 12 and younger must be accompanied by an adult.

Cost: $35 for non-members or $28 for members (a 20% discount off the regular price). To become a member, visit our membership page HERE.

Class size limited to 4.

Intro to Bird Carving

August 27, 2024 1:30 - 3:00 pm

Online reservations open on June 3, 2024.

Learn the basics of bird carving at the Gilley! This 1.5-hour class, suitable for beginners, comes with a kit that includes a bird blank and paints. Tools are available to borrow. You'll have fun and leave with something you create.

Students must be at least 11 years old; those 12 and younger must be accompanied by an adult.

Cost: $35 for non-members or $28 for members (a 20% discount off the regular price). To become a member, visit our membership page HERE.

Class size limited to 4.

Intro to Bird Carving

August 29, 2024 10:30 am - 12:00 pm

Online reservations open on June 3, 2024 at 4:00 am.

Learn the basics of bird carving at the Gilley! This 1.5-hour class, suitable for beginners, comes with a kit that includes a bird blank and paints. Tools are available to borrow. You'll have fun and leave with something you create.

Students must be at least 11 years old; those 12 and younger must be accompanied by an adult.

Cost: $35 for non-members or $28 for members (a 20% discount off the regular price). To become a member, visit our membership page HERE.

Class size limited to 4.

Intro to Bird Carving

August 29, 2024 1:30 - 3:00 pm

Online reservations open on June 3, 2024.

Learn the basics of bird carving at the Gilley! This 1.5-hour class, suitable for beginners, comes with a kit that includes a bird blank and paints. Tools are available to borrow. You'll have fun and leave with something you create.

Students must be at least 11 years old; those 12 and younger must be accompanied by an adult.

Cost: $35 for non-members or $28 for members (a 20% discount off the regular price). To become a member, visit our membership page HERE.

Class size limited to 4.

Intro to Bird Carving

September 3, 2024 10:30 am - 12:00 pm

Online reservations open on June 3, 2024 at 4:00 am.

Learn the basics of bird carving at the Gilley! This 1.5-hour class, suitable for beginners, comes with a kit that includes a bird blank and paints. Tools are available to borrow. You'll have fun and leave with something you create.

Students must be at least 11 years old; those 12 and younger must be accompanied by an adult.

Cost: $35 for non-members or $28 for members (a 20% discount off the regular price). To become a member, visit our membership page HERE.

Class size limited to 4.

Intro to Bird Carving

September 3, 2024 1:30 - 3:00 pm

Online reservations open on June 3, 2024.

Learn the basics of bird carving at the Gilley! This 1.5-hour class, suitable for beginners, comes with a kit that includes a bird blank and paints. Tools are available to borrow. You'll have fun and leave with something you create.

Students must be at least 11 years old; those 12 and younger must be accompanied by an adult.

Cost: $35 for non-members or $28 for members (a 20% discount off the regular price). To become a member, visit our membership page HERE.

Class size limited to 4.

All Ages Paint 'n' Sip: Watercolor Puffins

September 4 - 14, 2024

Reserve now

Come get your feet wet and step into the magical world of watercolor with local artist Erika Rosso.  Erika will be guiding students to create a watercolor portrait of a colorful Maine puffin.  Class is suitable for all levels and ages, families and individuals welcome. 

All materials supplied as well as tea and non alcoholic beverages.

Intro to Bird Carving

September 5, 2024 10:30 am - 12:00 pm

Online reservations open on June 3, 2024 at 4:00 am.

Learn the basics of bird carving at the Gilley! This 1.5-hour class, suitable for beginners, comes with a kit that includes a bird blank and paints. Tools are available to borrow. You'll have fun and leave with something you create.

Students must be at least 11 years old; those 12 and younger must be accompanied by an adult.

Cost: $35 for non-members or $28 for members (a 20% discount off the regular price). To become a member, visit our membership page HERE.

Class size limited to 4.

Intro to Bird Carving

September 5, 2024 1:30 - 3:00 pm

Online reservations open on June 3, 2024.

Learn the basics of bird carving at the Gilley! This 1.5-hour class, suitable for beginners, comes with a kit that includes a bird blank and paints. Tools are available to borrow. You'll have fun and leave with something you create.

Students must be at least 11 years old; those 12 and younger must be accompanied by an adult.

Cost: $35 for non-members or $28 for members (a 20% discount off the regular price). To become a member, visit our membership page HERE.

Class size limited to 4.

Intro to Bird Carving

September 10, 2024 10:30 am - 12:00 pm

Online reservations open on June 3, 2024 at 4:00 am.

Learn the basics of bird carving at the Gilley! This 1.5-hour class, suitable for beginners, comes with a kit that includes a bird blank and paints. Tools are available to borrow. You'll have fun and leave with something you create.

Students must be at least 11 years old; those 12 and younger must be accompanied by an adult.

Cost: $35 for non-members or $28 for members (a 20% discount off the regular price). To become a member, visit our membership page HERE.

Class size limited to 4.

Intro to Bird Carving

September 10, 2024 1:30 - 3:00 pm

Online reservations open on June 3, 2024.

Learn the basics of bird carving at the Gilley! This 1.5-hour class, suitable for beginners, comes with a kit that includes a bird blank and paints. Tools are available to borrow. You'll have fun and leave with something you create.

Students must be at least 11 years old; those 12 and younger must be accompanied by an adult.

Cost: $35 for non-members or $28 for members (a 20% discount off the regular price). To become a member, visit our membership page HERE.

Class size limited to 4.

People-Nature-Art with Josh Brewer, Carver & Sculptor

September 10, 2024 7:00 - 8:30 pm

Reserve now

Josh carves highly sought-after bird carvings by hand with traditional tools, using oil paint to finish his pieces which are primarily made from Atlantic white cedar. His work is in collections throughout the U.S., Canada, Europe, and Japan. He was commissioned by Salisbury University to create original carvings for Nobel Peace Prize Laureates including Polish President Lech Walesa and South African President F.W. de Klerk.                              

This will be an in-person event, but can also be attended online. We will send a Zoom link to those who choose the online option when reserving space. There will be an artist reception at 6pm.

People-Nature-Art is a monthly series that brings artists, writers, carvers, and creative types of all kinds to the Gilley to explore how nature and art interact in their work, and how their art impacts their own approach to nature.

Intro to Bird Carving

September 12, 2024 10:30 am - 12:00 pm

Online reservations open on June 3, 2024 at 4:00 am.

Learn the basics of bird carving at the Gilley! This 1.5-hour class, suitable for beginners, comes with a kit that includes a bird blank and paints. Tools are available to borrow. You'll have fun and leave with something you create.

Students must be at least 11 years old; those 12 and younger must be accompanied by an adult.

Cost: $35 for non-members or $28 for members (a 20% discount off the regular price). To become a member, visit our membership page HERE.

Class size limited to 4.

Intro to Bird Carving

September 12, 2024 1:30 - 3:00 pm

Online reservations open on June 3, 2024.

Learn the basics of bird carving at the Gilley! This 1.5-hour class, suitable for beginners, comes with a kit that includes a bird blank and paints. Tools are available to borrow. You'll have fun and leave with something you create.

Students must be at least 11 years old; those 12 and younger must be accompanied by an adult.

Cost: $35 for non-members or $28 for members (a 20% discount off the regular price). To become a member, visit our membership page HERE.

Class size limited to 4.

Intro to Bird Carving

September 17, 2024 10:30 am - 12:00 pm

Online reservations open on June 3, 2024 at 4:00 am.

Learn the basics of bird carving at the Gilley! This 1.5-hour class, suitable for beginners, comes with a kit that includes a bird blank and paints. Tools are available to borrow. You'll have fun and leave with something you create.

Students must be at least 11 years old; those 12 and younger must be accompanied by an adult.

Cost: $35 for non-members or $28 for members (a 20% discount off the regular price). To become a member, visit our membership page HERE.

Class size limited to 4.

Intro to Bird Carving

September 17, 2024 1:30 - 3:00 pm

Online reservations open on June 3, 2024.

Learn the basics of bird carving at the Gilley! This 1.5-hour class, suitable for beginners, comes with a kit that includes a bird blank and paints. Tools are available to borrow. You'll have fun and leave with something you create.

Students must be at least 11 years old; those 12 and younger must be accompanied by an adult.

Cost: $35 for non-members or $28 for members (a 20% discount off the regular price). To become a member, visit our membership page HERE.

Class size limited to 4.

Intro to Bird Carving

September 19, 2024 10:30 am - 12:00 pm

Online reservations open on June 3, 2024 at 4:00 am.

Learn the basics of bird carving at the Gilley! This 1.5-hour class, suitable for beginners, comes with a kit that includes a bird blank and paints. Tools are available to borrow. You'll have fun and leave with something you create.

Students must be at least 11 years old; those 12 and younger must be accompanied by an adult.

Cost: $35 for non-members or $28 for members (a 20% discount off the regular price). To become a member, visit our membership page HERE.

Class size limited to 4.

Intro to Bird Carving

September 19, 2024 1:30 - 3:00 pm

Online reservations open on June 3, 2024.

Learn the basics of bird carving at the Gilley! This 1.5-hour class, suitable for beginners, comes with a kit that includes a bird blank and paints. Tools are available to borrow. You'll have fun and leave with something you create.

Students must be at least 11 years old; those 12 and younger must be accompanied by an adult.

Cost: $35 for non-members or $28 for members (a 20% discount off the regular price). To become a member, visit our membership page HERE.

Class size limited to 4.

Family Cyanotype Workshop with Jenn Booher

September 21, 2024 12:00 - 2:00 pm

Reserve now

Cyanotype, also called sun-printing, is an early photographic process that produces blue and white prints. It is usually done in bright sunlight, but can also produce beautiful images on overcast days, and can be done indoors with a specialized UV light. You’ll have a chance to try both sunlight and artificial light.

In this 2-hour workshop, we will work with 5x7 watercolor paper and will use a variety of objects, including feathers, dried ferns, evergreen branches, paper snowflakes, and chandelier prisms to make woodland-inspired scenes.  This class is suitable for all ages and fun for the whole family.

Jennifer Booher is an artist and photographer from Bar Harbor. She has been a Resident Artist with Acadia National Park since 2015, and artist-in-residence with the MDI Historical Society since 2018.

Intro to Bird Carving

September 24, 2024 10:30 am - 12:00 pm

Online reservations open on June 3, 2024 at 4:00 am.

Learn the basics of bird carving at the Gilley! This 1.5-hour class, suitable for beginners, comes with a kit that includes a bird blank and paints. Tools are available to borrow. You'll have fun and leave with something you create.

Students must be at least 11 years old; those 12 and younger must be accompanied by an adult.

Cost: $35 for non-members or $28 for members (a 20% discount off the regular price). To become a member, visit our membership page HERE.

Class size limited to 4.

Intro to Bird Carving

September 24, 2024 1:30 - 3:00 pm

Online reservations open on June 3, 2024.

Learn the basics of bird carving at the Gilley! This 1.5-hour class, suitable for beginners, comes with a kit that includes a bird blank and paints. Tools are available to borrow. You'll have fun and leave with something you create.

Students must be at least 11 years old; those 12 and younger must be accompanied by an adult.

Cost: $35 for non-members or $28 for members (a 20% discount off the regular price). To become a member, visit our membership page HERE.

Class size limited to 4.

Intro to Bird Carving

September 26, 2024 10:30 am - 12:00 pm

Online reservations open on June 3, 2024 at 4:00 am.

Learn the basics of bird carving at the Gilley! This 1.5-hour class, suitable for beginners, comes with a kit that includes a bird blank and paints. Tools are available to borrow. You'll have fun and leave with something you create.

Students must be at least 11 years old; those 12 and younger must be accompanied by an adult.

Cost: $35 for non-members or $28 for members (a 20% discount off the regular price). To become a member, visit our membership page HERE.

Class size limited to 4.

Intro to Bird Carving

September 26, 2024 1:30 - 3:00 pm

Online reservations open on June 3, 2024.

Learn the basics of bird carving at the Gilley! This 1.5-hour class, suitable for beginners, comes with a kit that includes a bird blank and paints. Tools are available to borrow. You'll have fun and leave with something you create.

Students must be at least 11 years old; those 12 and younger must be accompanied by an adult.

Cost: $35 for non-members or $28 for members (a 20% discount off the regular price). To become a member, visit our membership page HERE.

Class size limited to 4.

People-Nature-Art with Bonnie Chase, Natural Materials Artist

October 8, 2024 7:00 - 8:30 pm

Reserve now

Bonnie Chase’s passion is combining nature, science, and local plant and found materials to create forms of art, inspired by the life that grows around her. Her creativity comes from her connection with the natural world. To create her art, Chase harvests the plants she grows in her garden and ones that grow in the wild around her home. She makes everything she uses, from dye to woven baskets, all from locally grown plant matter. She has always encouraged her students to explore the natural world through a creative lens, throughout her careers in teaching, as executive director of the Cora Hartshorn Arboretum and Nature Center, as Master Naturalist, and leading natural history tours in Central and South America.

This will be an in-person event, but can also be attended online. We will send a Zoom link to those who choose the online option when reserving space. There will be an artist reception at 6pm.

People-Nature-Art is a monthly series that brings artists, writers, carvers, and creative types of all kinds to the Gilley to explore how nature and art interact in their work, and how their art impacts their own approach to nature.

People-Nature-Art with Lucy Kalian, Painter

November 12, 2024 7:00 - 8:30 pm

Reserve now

The title for Lucy Kalian's current body of work, ‘Witnesses’ (on exhibit at the Gallery at Somes Sound in Somesville) refers not only to the thoughtful observer, but also to woodlands, trees, and their remains that have a deeper history than most of us walking the land today. They’ve witnessed humans’ yearning and urgency regarding the turmoil currently present throughout the world. The woods bear witness to a changing ecosystem and changing ‘human system’. She always was compelled to draw, sketch and paint but did not become a professional artist until midlife.

This will be an in-person event, but can also be attended online. We will send a Zoom link to those who choose the online option when reserving space. There will be an artist reception at 6pm.

People-Nature-Art is a monthly series that brings artists, writers, carvers, and creative types of all kinds to the Gilley to explore how nature and art interact in their work, and how their art impacts their own approach to nature.

People-Nature-Art with Nell Parker, 'Forest Floor' Painter

December 3, 2024 7:00 - 8:30 pm

Reserve now

Nell Parker lives with her family in a rambling 200-year-old farmhouse in rural Maine. She loves to engage with the surrounding landscape through growing her own food, celebrating the wheel of the year, and closely observing the surrounding world in the process of art-making. Her work has been shown in galleries throughout Maine and Oregon.

This will be an in-person event, but can also be attended online. We will send a Zoom link to those who choose the online option when reserving space. There will be an artist reception at 6pm.

People-Nature-Art is a monthly series that brings artists, writers, carvers, and creative types of all kinds to the Gilley to explore how nature and art interact in their work, and how their art impacts their own approach to nature.

Past Events

People-Nature-Art with Wayne Robbins

January 11, 2022 7:00 - 8:30 pm

Woodcarver and naturalist Wayne Robbins seeks to share his passion for the sea and to inspire faithful stewardship of the Earth’s fragile ecosystem through his art.

He joins the Gilley as the first People-Nature-Art presenter of 2022 on Tuesday, Jan. 11 at 7pm via Zoom.

He says that the sea’s breathtaking beauty and its infinite varieties of flora and fauna are constant reminders that we must respect and help sustain the lifeblood of our planet. 

Raised on the coast of Maine, he was inspired as a youth to capture the essence of nature in wood. His appreciation of the innate beauty of wood helps him design pieces that maximize the beauty and grace of both the medium and the subject. He chooses from a variety of native and exotic woods. By selecting a wood that complements his subject, a synergy results that informs and guides his creative process. Then he uses various combinations of oils and waxes to give the sculpture an “almost wet” look.  Each sculpture is unique and identified for its species, numbered, dated and signed by the artist.  His work is in private and public collections worldwide.

 

Fun with Feathers Family Program

February 19, 2022 2:00 - 3:30 pm

Have ‘Fun with Feathers’ in person at the Wendell Gilley Museum on Saturday, Feb. 19 at 2 p.m. in a special hands-on family program. Draw feathers. Use a magnifying glass to see them up close. Learn about their structure and function. Use a feather to draw or paint your own work of art.

Workshop size is limited and masks are required. $5 per person. Children younger than 7 must be accompanied by an adult. Registration is required. Sign up at www.wendellgilleymuseum.org/events

People-Nature-Art with Chris Maynard, Feb. 22, Online

February 22, 2022 7:00 - 8:30 pm

Join Chris Maynard of Featherfolio online on Tuesday, Feb. 22 at 7pm for February’s People-Nature-Art, the Wendell Gilley Museum’s signature monthly series that explores the connection between nature and art.

Mr. Maynard carves feathers into intricate art pieces. Pairing his artistic sense and scientific knowledge, he uses surgical tools to sculpt feathers while striving to respect their natural form. His message is one of beauty and appreciation of life. In grand installations, and in shadowboxes, he positions them so their shapes are enhanced as they cast shadows.

Unlike a painter’s palette, the choice of colors in feathers is quite limited. Mr. Maynard mostly keeps the natural colors and patterns of each feather. He gets his feathers from aviaries and all are legal to possess.

He believes feathers can represent flight, transformation and a bridge between our present lives and dreams.

Mr. Maynard’s work is in museums and private collections in North America, Asia, Europe, and Australia and has been featured in print and online around the world.

GIS on the Wing: Mapping the Birds of ANP & MDI

March 11, 2022 7:00 - 8:30 pm

Gordon Longsworth and Michael Good have been collaborating for years with the Geographic Information System (GIS) laboratory at College of the Atlantic to create maps and field guides that connect bird data to a map, integrating location with descriptive information like habitat or tree cover. This helps scientists to better understand patterns, relationships and geographic context, and birdwatchers to find specific species.

Join us for a free online event on Friday, March 11 at 7pm as Mr. Longsworth and Mr. Good join us to share the results of this years-long project and break down the data for us. There is no charge to attend but registration is required. You will receive a Zoom link after you register.

People-Nature-Art with novelists Kristen Britain & Julie Czerneda, March 22, Online

March 22, 2022 7:00 - 8:30 pm

A passion for the natural world resonates through the fictional landscapes created by fantasy author Kristen Britain and science fiction author Julie Czerneda, and that passion has even influenced the makeup of those worlds. Join these longtime friends online via Zoom with the Gilley on Tuesday, March 22 at 7pm, as they discuss how their own connection to nature has influenced their novels and their writing lives. Kristen is a former U.S. National Park ranger and Julie is a Canadian biologist who started out writing nonfiction. There is no charge, but registration is required. A Zoom link will be sent after you register.

Birds of Spring: Anticipation & Appreciation

April 5, 2022 8:30 - 11:30 am

The seasonal shift of birds from wintering areas to summer breeding territories is well underway during the month of April.  This mini-course is offered as a sequential program combining classroom presentations with a field excursion each week.  April, at our latitude, is a month of anticipation for returning birds. It is also a time of exodus for species that have spent their winter with us.  By early May some bird species have begun nesting, others are establishing territories, and still others are migrating through our neighborhoods.  We’ll immerse ourselves in the bird world for 3 hours each week using slides, videos, museum specimens, select readings and field observations.  While each week is designed to build upon the previous week’s experience, course content will be accessible enough that each week alone will be a learning experience.  Join the flock, get in on the joy of anticipating and appreciating Acadia’s birdlife.

ONLINE: Watercolor Techniques for the Nature Artist with Barry van Dusen

April 9, 2022 10:00 am - 12:00 pm

Gather up some watercolor paper, paints and brushes (whatever you have on hand), and explore the "Vocabulary of Watercolor" in this online workshop with award-winning nature artist Barry van Dusen. You’ll learn how, with a combination of materials and techniques, you can add variety, interest and sparkle to your watercolor paintings.

You'll cover the basics of wash, glazing and dry-brush (along with some other useful but less common techniques) and explore some color mixtures that are especially useful for painting nature subjects. Using step-by-step examples and a simple demonstration, Barry will help you demystify the wash sequence by applying the concepts of shadow pattern and local color.  And, of course, you'll have fun.

Birds of Spring: Anticipation & Appreciation

April 12, 2022 8:30 - 11:30 am

The seasonal shift of birds from wintering areas to summer breeding territories is well underway during the month of April.  This mini-course is offered as a sequential program combining classroom presentations with a field excursion each week.  April, at our latitude, is a month of anticipation for returning birds. It is also a time of exodus for species that have spent their winter with us.  By early May some bird species have begun nesting, others are establishing territories, and still others are migrating through our neighborhoods.  We’ll immerse ourselves in the bird world for 3 hours each week using slides, videos, museum specimens, select readings and field observations.  While each week is designed to build upon the previous week’s experience, course content will be accessible enough that each week alone will be a learning experience.  Join the flock, get in on the joy of anticipating and appreciating Acadia’s birdlife.

People-Nature-Art with Kristen Lindquist, Online

April 12, 2022 7:00 - 8:30 pm

The Gilley's signature monthly speaker series continues in April—National Poetry Month—with naturalist and poet Kristen Lindquist. People-Nature-Art brings creative types of all kinds to the Gilley to explore the impact of nature on their art and creativity.

Lindquist is a Pushcart-nominated poet and naturalist living in Camden. She has published two full-length collections of poetry: Transportation, which was a finalist for the Maine Literary Award, and Tourists in the Known World. Garrison Keillor has shared three of her poems on “The Writer’s Almanac.” An avid birder, Lindquist guides for the Acadia Birding Festival and wrote a natural history column for years for her local paper. She currently maintains a daily haiku blog and occasionally teaches haiku workshops.

Workshop: Build a Bee House

April 18, 2022 10:30 am - 12:00 pm

Build a bee house for non-stinging Mason bees and leaf-cutter bees in this special workshop. In these bee houses, the cavities are 5-inch-deep drilled holes — deep enough, we hope, to be safe from a woodpecker tongue. This is a great family project. Space is limited. This is an in-person event led by the Gilley's carver-in-residence, Steve Valleau.

Workshop: Build a Bee House

April 18, 2022 1:30 - 3:30 pm

Build a bee house for non-stinging Mason bees and leaf-cutter bees in this special workshop. In these bee houses, the cavities are 5-inch-deep drilled holes — deep enough, we hope, to be safe from a woodpecker tongue. This is a great family project. Space is limited. This is an in-person event led by the Gilley's carver-in-residence, Steve Valleau.

Birds of Spring: Anticipation & Appreciation

April 26, 2022 8:30 - 11:30 am

The seasonal shift of birds from wintering areas to summer breeding territories is well underway during the month of April.  This mini-course is offered as a sequential program combining classroom presentations with a field excursion each week.  April, at our latitude, is a month of anticipation for returning birds. It is also a time of exodus for species that have spent their winter with us.  By early May some bird species have begun nesting, others are establishing territories, and still others are migrating through our neighborhoods.  We’ll immerse ourselves in the bird world for 3 hours each week using slides, videos, museum specimens, select readings and field observations.  While each week is designed to build upon the previous week’s experience, course content will be accessible enough that each week alone will be a learning experience.  Join the flock, get in on the joy of anticipating and appreciating Acadia’s birdlife.

Ink Floating: A Collaboration of Poetry & Painting

April 29, 2022 7:00 - 8:00 pm

Join Swan's Island neighbors, painter Gary Hoyle and poet Gary Rainford, as they share a new collaborative project of five new paintings and poems, each artist inspired by the other's work.

This is a free online program. Registration is required.

Gary Hoyle’s sculptures and painting have been exhibited in museums and galleries throughout the United States, as well as at the Amori Prefecture Museum in Japan. His fanciful dinosaur illustrations toured the United States in "The Dinosaur Show" sponsored by the National Science Foundation and the Smithsonian Institution. In 2008 he was Artist in Residence at the Climate Change Institute where he developed a cartoon series on global warming.

Gary Rainford is the author of two poetry collections, Salty Liquor and Liner Notes. His suite of poems, We Are Here, was an honorable mention selected by Betsy Sholl for The Gabriel Zimpritch Memorial Poetry Prize.  His poems, he says, are shaped by tides, saltwater, and music.

Birds of Spring: Anticipation & Appreciation

May 3, 2022 8:30 - 11:30 am

The seasonal shift of birds from wintering areas to summer breeding territories is well underway during the month of April.  This mini-course is offered as a sequential program combining classroom presentations with a field excursion each week.  April, at our latitude, is a month of anticipation for returning birds. It is also a time of exodus for species that have spent their winter with us.  By early May some bird species have begun nesting, others are establishing territories, and still others are migrating through our neighborhoods.  We’ll immerse ourselves in the bird world for 3 hours each week using slides, videos, museum specimens, select readings and field observations.  While each week is designed to build upon the previous week’s experience, course content will be accessible enough that each week alone will be a learning experience.  Join the flock, get in on the joy of anticipating and appreciating Acadia’s birdlife.

People-Nature-Art with Jonathan Meiburg

May 10, 2022 7:00 - 8:00 pm

Our signature monthly series continues in May with Jonathan Meiburg, journalist, musician, and author of "A Most Remarkable Creature," an enthralling look at the caracara, a clever, social South American bird of prey that puzzled Charles Darwin. The book twines natural history and human history, with insights and lessons that go far beyond the subject birds.

This is a free online program. Registration is required.

People-Nature-Art brings creative types of all kinds to the Gilley to explore the impact of nature on their art and creativity.

Warbler Walk-May 18

May 11, 2022 7:00 - 10:00 am

May is prime time to spot warblers on Mount Desert Island. Join the Gilley on two warbler walks led by Rich MacDonald, a field biologist, guide, birder, naturalist, and writer. His birding-related travels have taken him all over the world, including Antarctica, but he calls Mount Desert Island home and birds here year-round. Meet at the Gilley. Cost is $7 per person, per walk.

Beautiful Blackbird with Island Readers & Writers

May 14, 2022 9:30 - 11:30 am

The Gilley is honored to be teaming up with Island Readers & Writers to remember the late Ashley Bryan with an interactive story time and art collage activity. Join us at the Gilley on Saturday, May 14 at 9:30am. Lisa Herrington, IRW's Program Assistant, will offer a speical story time featuring Ashley's Beautiful Blackbird followed by Erika Rosso leading a fun collage art activity reminescent of Ashley's iconic work. Participants will make their own beautiful birds to take home.

This program is free and recommned for children older than 4 and their adults. Registration is required online through IRW's website HERE

Beautiful Blackbird is a picture book adaptation of a tale from the Ila-speaking people of Zambia that celebrates community and individuality. Long ago, the many colorful birds of the world had no markings on their beaks or feathers—until they appeal to Blackbird, the most beautiful bird of all.

Ashely, who passed away earlier this year, was an acclaimed author, painter, printmaker, illustrator, puppet maker and storyteller whose career spanned more than six decades. He was a special friend of both IRW and the Gilley.  

Warbler Walk-May 18

May 18, 2022 7:00 - 10:00 am

May is prime time to spot warblers on Mount Desert Island. Join the Gilley on two warbler walks led by Rich MacDonald, a field biologist, guide, birder, naturalist, and writer. His birding-related travels have taken him all over the world, including Antarctica, but he calls Mount Desert Island home and birds here year-round. Meet at the Gilley. Cost is $7 per person, per walk.

Workshop: Build A Birdhouse

May 20, 2022 1:30 - 3:30 pm

Join naturalist Rich MacDonald at the Wendell Gilley Museum to build a birdhouse and learn about the birds who will live there in this two-hour workshop. Learn about the life history and ecology of some of the other bird species that might visit your birdhouse, and how best to site your creation to entice birds to use it. The class is for people 10 and older and anyone younger than 12 must be accompanied by an adult.  

Class size limited to 10.

Materials provided and you take home your birdhouse that day!

Fee: $35 per person

Acadia Birding Festival

June 2 - 5, 2022

The Wendell Gilley Museum is pleased to be a sponsor of the Acadia Birding Festival, and hosts to the festival’s speakers and book-signing event. Celebrate the ecological wonders of the birds of the Gulf of Maine at the Acadia Birding Festival. Explore Mount Desert Island and its birds through a variety of field trips and lectures. Greet warblers on morning walks, head out to sea to get a look at pelagic birds, and observe peregrin falcons at an active breeding site. Learn from experts in person and online through inspirational and informative talks. Register directly through the Acadia Birding Festival at www.acadiabirdingfestival.com.

Carving Classes with Steve Valleau

June 9, 2022 10:30 am - 12:00 pm

Learn carving on Tuesdays and Thursdays from our master carver, Steve Valleau, who has been sharing this art with students at the museum for 37 years. This 1.5-hour class, suitable for beginners, comes with a kit that includes a bird blank and paints. Tools are available to borrow. Learn the basics of this classic American art form, and leave with something you create in our outdoor classroom. Last class for the season is Tuesday, Sept. 13.

No classes on: June 30, August 16 or August 18

Students must be at least 11 years old; those 12 and younger must be accompanied by an adult.

Cost: $35 for non-members or $28 for members (a 20% discount off the regular price). To become a member, visit our membership page HERE.

Class size limited to 4.

Carving Classes with Steve Valleau

June 9, 2022 1:30 - 3:00 pm

Learn carving on Tuesdays and Thursdays from our master carver, Steve Valleau, who has been sharing this art with students at the museum for 37 years. This 1.5-hour class, suitable for beginners, comes with a kit that includes a bird blank and paints. Tools are available to borrow. Learn the basics of this classic American art form, and leave with something you create in our outdoor classroom. Last class for the season is Tuesday, Sept. 13.

No classes on: June 30, August 16 or August 18

Students must be at least 11 years old; those 12 and younger must be accompanied by an adult.

Cost: $35 for non-members or $28 for members (a 20% discount off the regular price). To become a member, visit our membership page HERE.

Class size limited to 4.

Feather Art with Erika Rosso

June 10, 2022 1:30 - 3:30 pm

Join us to make art with feathers. Feathers can be a paintbrush or be painted, they can be the subject of the media for your special art. We provide the feathers, paint, yarn, glue and art paper. You bring your creativity. Art teacher Erika Rosso joins us for this special session to help your creativity soar. Registration required. Class size limited. All ages welcome. This is a terrific family activity. We will work in our outdoor classroom at the Gilley. 

Carving Classes with Steve Valleau

June 14, 2022 10:30 am - 12:00 pm

Learn carving on Tuesdays and Thursdays from our master carver, Steve Valleau, who has been sharing this art with students at the museum for 37 years. This 1.5-hour class, suitable for beginners, comes with a kit that includes a bird blank and paints. Tools are available to borrow. Learn the basics of this classic American art form, and leave with something you create in our outdoor classroom. Last class for the season is Tuesday, Sept. 13.

No classes on: June 30, August 16 or August 18

Students must be at least 11 years old; those 12 and younger must be accompanied by an adult.

Cost: $35 for non-members or $28 for members (a 20% discount off the regular price). To become a member, visit our membership page HERE.

Class size limited to 4.

Carving Classes with Steve Valleau

June 14, 2022 1:30 - 3:00 pm

Learn carving on Tuesdays and Thursdays from our master carver, Steve Valleau, who has been sharing this art with students at the museum for 37 years. This 1.5-hour class, suitable for beginners, comes with a kit that includes a bird blank and paints. Tools are available to borrow. Learn the basics of this classic American art form, and leave with something you create in our outdoor classroom. Last class for the season is Tuesday, Sept. 13.

No classes on: June 30, August 16 or August 18

Students must be at least 11 years old; those 12 and younger must be accompanied by an adult.

Cost: $35 for non-members or $28 for members (a 20% discount off the regular price). To become a member, visit our membership page HERE.

Class size limited to 4.

Nature Journaling Workshop-Kids & Families

June 15, 2022 9:00 - 11:00 am

Aug. 10 & Aug. 24  9-11am   --  Bring a little bit of the outdoors indoors with this Nature Journaling Workshop taught by artist and nature-lover Erika Rosso. Gather tips and techniques for capturing your memorable moments. All materials supplied. This is a terrific family activity; children younger than 12 must be accompanied by an adult. Registration required and class size is limited.

Birdy Story Time & Craft

June 15, 2022 1:00 - 2:30 pm

Join Miss Amanda from the Southwest Harbor Public Library at the Wendell Gilley Museum for a special bird-themed story time and craft.  1pm.

No registration required and no fee.

Children should bring at least one adult with them.

Carving Classes with Steve Valleau

June 16, 2022 10:30 am - 12:00 pm

Learn carving on Tuesdays and Thursdays from our master carver, Steve Valleau, who has been sharing this art with students at the museum for 37 years. This 1.5-hour class, suitable for beginners, comes with a kit that includes a bird blank and paints. Tools are available to borrow. Learn the basics of this classic American art form, and leave with something you create in our outdoor classroom. Last class for the season is Tuesday, Sept. 13.

No classes on: June 30, August 16 or August 18

Students must be at least 11 years old; those 12 and younger must be accompanied by an adult.

Cost: $35 for non-members or $28 for members (a 20% discount off the regular price). To become a member, visit our membership page HERE.

Class size limited to 4.

Carving Classes with Steve Valleau

June 16, 2022 1:30 - 3:00 pm

Learn carving on Tuesdays and Thursdays from our master carver, Steve Valleau, who has been sharing this art with students at the museum for 37 years. This 1.5-hour class, suitable for beginners, comes with a kit that includes a bird blank and paints. Tools are available to borrow. Learn the basics of this classic American art form, and leave with something you create in our outdoor classroom. Last class for the season is Tuesday, Sept. 13.

No classes on: June 30, August 16 or August 18

Students must be at least 11 years old; those 12 and younger must be accompanied by an adult.

Cost: $35 for non-members or $28 for members (a 20% discount off the regular price). To become a member, visit our membership page HERE.

Class size limited to 4.

Carving Classes with Steve Valleau

June 21, 2022 10:30 am - 12:00 pm

Learn carving on Tuesdays and Thursdays from our master carver, Steve Valleau, who has been sharing this art with students at the museum for 37 years. This 1.5-hour class, suitable for beginners, comes with a kit that includes a bird blank and paints. Tools are available to borrow. Learn the basics of this classic American art form, and leave with something you create in our outdoor classroom. Last class for the season is Tuesday, Sept. 13.

No classes on: June 30, August 16 or August 18

Students must be at least 11 years old; those 12 and younger must be accompanied by an adult.

Cost: $35 for non-members or $28 for members (a 20% discount off the regular price). To become a member, visit our membership page HERE.

Class size limited to 4.

Carving Classes with Steve Valleau

June 21, 2022 1:00 - 3:00 pm

Learn carving on Tuesdays and Thursdays from our master carver, Steve Valleau, who has been sharing this art with students at the museum for 37 years. This 1.5-hour class, suitable for beginners, comes with a kit that includes a bird blank and paints. Tools are available to borrow. Learn the basics of this classic American art form, and leave with something you create in our outdoor classroom. Last class for the season is Tuesday, Sept. 13.

No classes on: June 30, August 16 or August 18

Students must be at least 11 years old; those 12 and younger must be accompanied by an adult.

Cost: $35 for non-members or $28 for members (a 20% discount off the regular price). To become a member, visit our membership page HERE.

Class size limited to 4.

People-Nature-Art with Rebekah Lowell June 21

June 21, 2022 7:00 - 8:00 pm

The Gilley is excited to welcome the 2022 winner of the prestigious Maine Duck Stamp Contest – her fifth win! – as our featured presenter for People-Nature-Art in June. Rebekah Lowell is a painter, illustrator, and children’s book author with a passion for the natural world. Her first book, “The Road to After,” was published in May. It’s a novel in verse for middle-graders and is the kickoff book for the Southwest Harbor Public Library’s Summer Middle Grade Book Club. Her debut picture book, “Catching Flight,” is set to be published by Doubleday Books for Young Readers next year.

There is no charge for this event, but registration is required. Please sign up for either the in-person event or the livecast, and mention in the Notes which you are signing up for.

“As children, we have a sense of wonder that often fades as we grow—but my passion is to keep that youthful spirit of discovery alive through the process of observing and creating,” she says. “My heart continues to be amazed by the natural world we live in and I want to share this through the words and images of my work. By teaching others to love nature, we encourage empathy, and in that we are saving the world.”

Rebekah won the duck stamp contest (known officially now as the Maine Migratory Waterfowl Contest) hosted by the Maine Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife in 2022, 2020, 2017, 2014, and 2011. When she is not in her studio, you can find her outside—birding, gardening, nature journaling, rescuing birds for Avian Haven, and raising butterflies – often with her daughters, who she homeschools at their home in Biddeford.

She has a BFA in Illustration from the Rhode Island School of Design and an MFA in Children’s Literature and Illustration from Hollins University. She is the winner of the Margaret Kates Award in Art and the Ruth Sanderson Award-Illustrator’s Spotlight, and was a 2016 winner in the Kentucky National Wildlife Art Exhibit of the Fifth Third Bank Award.

People-Nature-Art is the Gilley’s signature monthly program that brings creative types of all kinds to the museum to explore the impact of nature on their art and creativity. This program will be offered in person, and livecast. Please indicate in the Notes section whether you will be attending in person or online.

Carving Classes with Steve Valleau

June 23, 2022 10:30 am - 12:00 pm

Learn carving on Tuesdays and Thursdays from our master carver, Steve Valleau, who has been sharing this art with students at the museum for 37 years. This 1.5-hour class, suitable for beginners, comes with a kit that includes a bird blank and paints. Tools are available to borrow. Learn the basics of this classic American art form, and leave with something you create in our outdoor classroom. Last class for the season is Tuesday, Sept. 13.

No classes on: June 30, August 16 or August 18

Students must be at least 11 years old; those 12 and younger must be accompanied by an adult.

Cost: $35 for non-members or $28 for members (a 20% discount off the regular price). To become a member, visit our membership page HERE.

Class size limited to 4.

Fun with Feathers

June 23, 2022 10:30 am - 12:00 pm

Have Fun with Feathers in person at the Wendell Gilley Museum on June 23 in a special hands-on workshop. Draw feathers. Use a magnifying glass to see them up close. Learn about their structure and function. Use a feather to draw or paint your own work of art.

Workshop size is limited and masks are required. Children younger than 7 must be accompanied by an adult. 

Carving Classes with Steve Valleau

June 23, 2022 1:30 - 3:00 pm

Learn carving on Tuesdays and Thursdays from our master carver, Steve Valleau, who has been sharing this art with students at the museum for 37 years. This 1.5-hour class, suitable for beginners, comes with a kit that includes a bird blank and paints. Tools are available to borrow. Learn the basics of this classic American art form, and leave with something you create in our outdoor classroom. Last class for the season is Tuesday, Sept. 13.

No classes on: June 30, August 16 or August 18

Students must be at least 11 years old; those 12 and younger must be accompanied by an adult.

Cost: $35 for non-members or $28 for members (a 20% discount off the regular price). To become a member, visit our membership page HERE.

Class size limited to 4.

Plein Air Painting Aug. 26

June 24, 2022 9:00 am - 12:00 pm

Join the Wendell Gilley Museum and artist Erika Rosso for a watercolor class outdoors.

This class is suitable for beginner to intermediate painters but does require curiosity and a willingness to experiment! Erika has a positive and experimental teaching style that builds confidence in budding artists, making it joyous to learn and create. This is a class for adults but also accepts mature students aged 12 and older. Registration is required and space is limited.

Classical Music Comes to the Gilley June 24

June 24, 2022 7:00 - 8:00 pm

Classical music is for the birds … and that’s a good thing! On Friday, June 24, the Wendell Gilley Museum hosts a special evening of music in the main gallery with members of the Fermata Chamber Soloists led by violinist Thomas Cooper, and his sister, the noted soprano Sarah Joyce Cooper. Among the pieces they will perform are selections from Louis Beydts’ “Chansons pour les oiseaux” (Songs for the Birds). The concert begins at 7 p.m., and there is no fee to attend, but reservations are required. The concert also will be livecast. Reservations for the in-person event and the livecast are two different events.

Please sign up for either the in-person event or the livecast, and mention in the Notes which you are signing up for.

The music selection is inspired by the Gilley Museum’s permanent collection and special exhibits, which feature birds as the subject for carvings, paintings and block prints by Wendell Gilley, Steven Valleau, Hank Tyler, Sherrie York, David Sibley, and David Speiser, among others.

Fermata Chamber Soloists is a Boston-based nonprofit organization intent on changing the culture of classical music with experiential, community-oriented events that are fun, intense and informal while retaining the highest level of artistry. In addition to Thomas Cooper, who is co-founder of Fermata Chamber Soloists, the quartet will include cellist Alex Fowler; violist Daniel Orsen; and violinist Jessica Tsang.

Flute-making Workshop with Hawk Henries June 25

June 25, 2022 8:30 am - 4:30 pm

Learn from a master of the Eastern Woodland Flute, Hawk Henries, and make your own flute from bamboo using only hand tools – carving knives, files, sandpaper and fire in this all-day workshop on June 25. All tools and materials will be  provided. The workshop will be tailored to each participant’s level of experience, and beginners are welcome. Hawk will teach in a relaxed setting, allowing everyone to ask questions and talk about their experience as they learn the art of flute-making.

Space is limited and registration is required.

 

Writing Workshop Nov. 12

June 25, 2022 9:00 am - 12:00 pm

 

This workshop is designed to help you unlock your creativity and leave with some works in progress, and to have some fun along the way. Get inspired by pieces from the museum's permanent collection and current exhibitions, with writer and artist Annaliese Jakimides. Her prose and poetry have been published in magazines, journals, and anthologies; broadcast on NPR and Maine Public; and included in art venues such as ArtWord at the Portland Museum of Art. She will provide some background about this type of writing ekphrastic writing plus techniques, and prompts to get you going. But ultimately you choose your path.
 

Carving Classes with Steve Valleau

June 28, 2022 10:30 am - 12:00 pm

Learn carving on Tuesdays and Thursdays from our master carver, Steve Valleau, who has been sharing this art with students at the museum for 37 years. This 1.5-hour class, suitable for beginners, comes with a kit that includes a bird blank and paints. Tools are available to borrow. Learn the basics of this classic American art form, and leave with something you create in our outdoor classroom. Last class for the season is Tuesday, Sept. 13.

No classes on: June 30, August 16 or August 18

Students must be at least 11 years old; those 12 and younger must be accompanied by an adult.

Cost: $35 for non-members or $28 for members (a 20% discount off the regular price). To become a member, visit our membership page HERE.

Class size limited to 4.

Carving Classes with Steve Valleau

June 28, 2022 1:30 - 3:00 pm

Learn carving on Tuesdays and Thursdays from our master carver, Steve Valleau, who has been sharing this art with students at the museum for 37 years. This 1.5-hour class, suitable for beginners, comes with a kit that includes a bird blank and paints. Tools are available to borrow. Learn the basics of this classic American art form, and leave with something you create in our outdoor classroom. Last class for the season is Tuesday, Sept. 13.

No classes on: June 30, August 16 or August 18

Students must be at least 11 years old; those 12 and younger must be accompanied by an adult.

Cost: $35 for non-members or $28 for members (a 20% discount off the regular price). To become a member, visit our membership page HERE.

Class size limited to 4.

Family Nature Journaling

June 29, 2022 9:00 - 11:00 am

Bring a little bit of the outdoors indoors with this Nature Journaling Workshop on Wednesday, June 29, from 9 to 11am taught by artist and nature-lover Erika Rosso. Gather tips and techniques for capturing your memorable moments. All materials supplied. This is a terrific family activity; children younger than 12 must be accompanied by an adult. Registration required and class size is limited.

Birds and Books Craft Activity with the Southwest Harbor Public Library

June 29, 2022 1:00 - 2:00 pm

We’re teaming up with the Southwest Harbor Public Library on July 27 at 1pm for a special Birds and Books at the library! Learn about feathers and make some Loon art.  Children younger than 7 must be accompanied by an adult.

Workshop size is limited and registration required, but since this event is happening at the library, please sign up directly with them HERE

 

Are Birds Like You & Me?

July 1, 2022 1:30 - 3:00 pm

Join us to discover the special adaptations that allow birds to survive life in Maine. Through using our curiosity, problem solving skills, senses and imagination we will better appreciate how and what birds eat, build a nest, stay warm, protect themselves, find a mate, move about, and use their senses. Some things may surprise you! Let's explore this interesting and amazing group of animals that share our planet and lives.

Carving Classes with Steve Valleau

July 5, 2022 10:30 am - 12:00 pm

Learn carving on Tuesdays and Thursdays from our master carver, Steve Valleau, who has been sharing this art with students at the museum for 37 years. This 1.5-hour class, suitable for beginners, comes with a kit that includes a bird blank and paints. Tools are available to borrow. Learn the basics of this classic American art form, and leave with something you create in our outdoor classroom. Last class for the season is Tuesday, Sept. 13.

No classes on: June 30, August 16 or August 18

Students must be at least 11 years old; those 12 and younger must be accompanied by an adult.

Cost: $35 for non-members or $28 for members (a 20% discount off the regular price). To become a member, visit our membership page HERE.

Class size limited to 4.

Carving Classes with Steve Valleau

July 5, 2022 1:30 - 3:00 pm

Learn carving on Tuesdays and Thursdays from our master carver, Steve Valleau, who has been sharing this art with students at the museum for 37 years. This 1.5-hour class, suitable for beginners, comes with a kit that includes a bird blank and paints. Tools are available to borrow. Learn the basics of this classic American art form, and leave with something you create in our outdoor classroom. Last class for the season is Tuesday, Sept. 13.

No classes on: June 30, August 16 or August 18

Students must be at least 11 years old; those 12 and younger must be accompanied by an adult.

Cost: $35 for non-members or $28 for members (a 20% discount off the regular price). To become a member, visit our membership page HERE.

Class size limited to 4.

Feather Art with Erika Rosso

July 6, 2022 1:30 - 3:30 pm

Join us to make art with feathers. Feathers can be a paintbrush or be painted, they can be the subject of the media for your special art. We provide the feathers, paint, yarn, glue and art paper. You bring your creativity. Art teacher Erika Rosso joins us for this special session to help your creativity soar. Registration required. Class size limited. All ages welcome. This is a terrific family activity. We will work in our outdoor classroom at the Gilley. 

Carving Classes with Steve Valleau

July 7, 2022 10:30 am - 12:00 pm

Learn carving on Tuesdays and Thursdays from our master carver, Steve Valleau, who has been sharing this art with students at the museum for 37 years. This 1.5-hour class, suitable for beginners, comes with a kit that includes a bird blank and paints. Tools are available to borrow. Learn the basics of this classic American art form, and leave with something you create in our outdoor classroom. Last class for the season is Tuesday, Sept. 13.

No classes on: June 30, August 16 or August 18

Students must be at least 11 years old; those 12 and younger must be accompanied by an adult.

Cost: $35 for non-members or $28 for members (a 20% discount off the regular price). To become a member, visit our membership page HERE.

Class size limited to 4.

Carving Classes with Steve Valleau

July 7, 2022 1:30 - 3:00 pm

Learn carving on Tuesdays and Thursdays from our master carver, Steve Valleau, who has been sharing this art with students at the museum for 37 years. This 1.5-hour class, suitable for beginners, comes with a kit that includes a bird blank and paints. Tools are available to borrow. Learn the basics of this classic American art form, and leave with something you create in our outdoor classroom. Last class for the season is Tuesday, Sept. 13.

No classes on: June 30, August 16 or August 18

Students must be at least 11 years old; those 12 and younger must be accompanied by an adult.

Cost: $35 for non-members or $28 for members (a 20% discount off the regular price). To become a member, visit our membership page HERE.

Class size limited to 4.

Fun with Feathers

July 8, 2022 10:30 am - 12:00 pm

Have Fun with Feathers in person at the Wendell Gilley Museum on June 23 in a special hands-on workshop. Draw feathers. Use a magnifying glass to see them up close. Learn about their structure and function. Use a feather to draw or paint your own work of art.

Workshop size is limited and masks are required. Children younger than 7 must be accompanied by an adult. 

Carving Classes with Steve Valleau

July 12, 2022 10:30 am - 12:00 pm

Learn carving on Tuesdays and Thursdays from our master carver, Steve Valleau, who has been sharing this art with students at the museum for 37 years. This 1.5-hour class, suitable for beginners, comes with a kit that includes a bird blank and paints. Tools are available to borrow. Learn the basics of this classic American art form, and leave with something you create in our outdoor classroom. Last class for the season is Tuesday, Sept. 13.

No classes on: June 30, August 16 or August 18

Students must be at least 11 years old; those 12 and younger must be accompanied by an adult.

Cost: $35 for non-members or $28 for members (a 20% discount off the regular price). To become a member, visit our membership page HERE.

Class size limited to 4.

Carving Classes with Steve Valleau

July 12, 2022 1:30 - 3:00 pm

Learn carving on Tuesdays and Thursdays from our master carver, Steve Valleau, who has been sharing this art with students at the museum for 37 years. This 1.5-hour class, suitable for beginners, comes with a kit that includes a bird blank and paints. Tools are available to borrow. Learn the basics of this classic American art form, and leave with something you create in our outdoor classroom. Last class for the season is Tuesday, Sept. 13.

No classes on: June 30, August 16 or August 18

Students must be at least 11 years old; those 12 and younger must be accompanied by an adult.

Cost: $35 for non-members or $28 for members (a 20% discount off the regular price). To become a member, visit our membership page HERE.

Class size limited to 4.

People-Nature-Art with Sculptor Don Rambadt

July 12, 2022 7:00 - 8:30 pm

Don Rambadt creates one-of-a-kind sculptures from metal, and birds are his inspiration and primary subject matter. "I sculpt because I enjoy the challenge of manipulating space,” he sayd. “I've chosen birds as my subject matter because they fascinate me to no end.” The Gilley is the honored owner of several of his pieces. Now we welcome their creator back to the Gilley as our July presenter for People-Nature-Art. Join us as Don delves into his process, his inspiration, his ongoing work, and more. “I have been fortunate to be able to combine my lifelong curiosity towards the natural world with a creative path that allows me to explore my own vision of what is interesting and beautiful,” he says. And that makes him the perfect person to join People-Nature-Art. We hope you’ll join us, too, for this very special event.

When you register, please let us know in the Notes field whether you will attend in person or online.

 

Nature Journaling Workshop-Kids & Families

July 13, 2022 9:00 - 11:00 am

Aug. 10 & Aug. 24  9-11am   --  Bring a little bit of the outdoors indoors with this Nature Journaling Workshop taught by artist and nature-lover Erika Rosso. Gather tips and techniques for capturing your memorable moments. All materials supplied. This is a terrific family activity; children younger than 12 must be accompanied by an adult. Registration required and class size is limited.

Birdy Story Time & Craft

July 13, 2022 1:00 - 2:00 pm

Join Miss Amanda from the Southwest Harbor Public Library at the Wendell Gilley Museum for a special bird-themed story time and craft.  1pm.

No registration required and no fee.

Children should bring at least one adult with them.

Carving Classes with Steve Valleau

July 14, 2022 10:30 am - 12:00 pm

Learn carving on Tuesdays and Thursdays from our master carver, Steve Valleau, who has been sharing this art with students at the museum for 37 years. This 1.5-hour class, suitable for beginners, comes with a kit that includes a bird blank and paints. Tools are available to borrow. Learn the basics of this classic American art form, and leave with something you create in our outdoor classroom. Last class for the season is Tuesday, Sept. 13.

No classes on: June 30, August 16 or August 18

Students must be at least 11 years old; those 12 and younger must be accompanied by an adult.

Cost: $35 for non-members or $28 for members (a 20% discount off the regular price). To become a member, visit our membership page HERE.

Class size limited to 4.

Carving Classes with Steve Valleau

July 14, 2022 1:30 - 3:00 pm

Learn carving on Tuesdays and Thursdays from our master carver, Steve Valleau, who has been sharing this art with students at the museum for 37 years. This 1.5-hour class, suitable for beginners, comes with a kit that includes a bird blank and paints. Tools are available to borrow. Learn the basics of this classic American art form, and leave with something you create in our outdoor classroom. Last class for the season is Tuesday, Sept. 13.

No classes on: June 30, August 16 or August 18

Students must be at least 11 years old; those 12 and younger must be accompanied by an adult.

Cost: $35 for non-members or $28 for members (a 20% discount off the regular price). To become a member, visit our membership page HERE.

Class size limited to 4.

Special Saturday Carving Class with Steve Valleau

July 16, 2022 10:30 am - 12:00 pm

Join us for this special Saturday carving class for beginners on July 16th – it’s the only Saturday class this summer. Learn from our master carver, Steve Valleau, who has been sharing this art with students at the museum for 37 years. This 1.5-hour class, suitable for beginners, comes with a kit that includes a bird blank and paints. Tools are available to borrow. Learn the basics of this classic American art form, and leave with something you create in our outdoor classroom. Students must be at least 11 years old; those 12 and younger must be accompanied by an adult. Class size is limited.

Cost: $35 for non-members or $28 for members (a 20% discount off the regular price). To become a member, visit our membership page HERE.

Carving Classes with Steve Valleau

July 19, 2022 10:30 am - 12:00 pm

Learn carving on Tuesdays and Thursdays from our master carver, Steve Valleau, who has been sharing this art with students at the museum for 37 years. This 1.5-hour class, suitable for beginners, comes with a kit that includes a bird blank and paints. Tools are available to borrow. Learn the basics of this classic American art form, and leave with something you create in our outdoor classroom. Last class for the season is Tuesday, Sept. 13.

No classes on: June 30, August 16 or August 18

Students must be at least 11 years old; those 12 and younger must be accompanied by an adult.

Cost: $35 for non-members or $28 for members (a 20% discount off the regular price). To become a member, visit our membership page HERE.

Class size limited to 4.

Carving Classes with Steve Valleau

July 19, 2022 1:30 - 3:00 pm

Learn carving on Tuesdays and Thursdays from our master carver, Steve Valleau, who has been sharing this art with students at the museum for 37 years. This 1.5-hour class, suitable for beginners, comes with a kit that includes a bird blank and paints. Tools are available to borrow. Learn the basics of this classic American art form, and leave with something you create in our outdoor classroom. Last class for the season is Tuesday, Sept. 13.

No classes on: June 30, August 16 or August 18

Students must be at least 11 years old; those 12 and younger must be accompanied by an adult.

Cost: $35 for non-members or $28 for members (a 20% discount off the regular price). To become a member, visit our membership page HERE.

Class size limited to 4.

Fun with Feathers

July 20, 2022 10:30 am - 12:00 pm

Have Fun with Feathers in person at the Wendell Gilley Museum on June 23 in a special hands-on workshop. Draw feathers. Use a magnifying glass to see them up close. Learn about their structure and function. Use a feather to draw or paint your own work of art.

Workshop size is limited and masks are required. Children younger than 7 must be accompanied by an adult. 

Carving Classes with Steve Valleau

July 21, 2022 10:30 am - 12:00 pm

Learn carving on Tuesdays and Thursdays from our master carver, Steve Valleau, who has been sharing this art with students at the museum for 37 years. This 1.5-hour class, suitable for beginners, comes with a kit that includes a bird blank and paints. Tools are available to borrow. Learn the basics of this classic American art form, and leave with something you create in our outdoor classroom. Last class for the season is Tuesday, Sept. 13.

No classes on: June 30, August 16 or August 18

Students must be at least 11 years old; those 12 and younger must be accompanied by an adult.

Cost: $35 for non-members or $28 for members (a 20% discount off the regular price). To become a member, visit our membership page HERE.

Class size limited to 4.

Carving Classes with Steve Valleau

July 21, 2022 1:30 - 3:00 pm

Learn carving on Tuesdays and Thursdays from our master carver, Steve Valleau, who has been sharing this art with students at the museum for 37 years. This 1.5-hour class, suitable for beginners, comes with a kit that includes a bird blank and paints. Tools are available to borrow. Learn the basics of this classic American art form, and leave with something you create in our outdoor classroom. Last class for the season is Tuesday, Sept. 13.

No classes on: June 30, August 16 or August 18

Students must be at least 11 years old; those 12 and younger must be accompanied by an adult.

Cost: $35 for non-members or $28 for members (a 20% discount off the regular price). To become a member, visit our membership page HERE.

Class size limited to 4.

Plein Air Painting Aug. 26

July 22, 2022 9:00 am - 12:00 pm

Join the Wendell Gilley Museum and artist Erika Rosso for a watercolor class outdoors.

This class is suitable for beginner to intermediate painters but does require curiosity and a willingness to experiment! Erika has a positive and experimental teaching style that builds confidence in budding artists, making it joyous to learn and create. This is a class for adults but also accepts mature students aged 12 and older. Registration is required and space is limited.

Writing Workshop Nov. 12

July 23, 2022 9:00 am - 12:00 pm

 

This workshop is designed to help you unlock your creativity and leave with some works in progress, and to have some fun along the way. Get inspired by pieces from the museum's permanent collection and current exhibitions, with writer and artist Annaliese Jakimides. Her prose and poetry have been published in magazines, journals, and anthologies; broadcast on NPR and Maine Public; and included in art venues such as ArtWord at the Portland Museum of Art. She will provide some background about this type of writing ekphrastic writing plus techniques, and prompts to get you going. But ultimately you choose your path.
 

Carving Classes with Steve Valleau

July 26, 2022 10:30 am - 12:00 pm

Learn carving on Tuesdays and Thursdays from our master carver, Steve Valleau, who has been sharing this art with students at the museum for 37 years. This 1.5-hour class, suitable for beginners, comes with a kit that includes a bird blank and paints. Tools are available to borrow. Learn the basics of this classic American art form, and leave with something you create in our outdoor classroom. Last class for the season is Tuesday, Sept. 13.

No classes on: June 30, August 16 or August 18

Students must be at least 11 years old; those 12 and younger must be accompanied by an adult.

Cost: $35 for non-members or $28 for members (a 20% discount off the regular price). To become a member, visit our membership page HERE.

Class size limited to 4.

Carving Classes with Steve Valleau

July 26, 2022 1:30 - 3:00 pm

Learn carving on Tuesdays and Thursdays from our master carver, Steve Valleau, who has been sharing this art with students at the museum for 37 years. This 1.5-hour class, suitable for beginners, comes with a kit that includes a bird blank and paints. Tools are available to borrow. Learn the basics of this classic American art form, and leave with something you create in our outdoor classroom. Last class for the season is Tuesday, Sept. 13.

No classes on: June 30, August 16 or August 18

Students must be at least 11 years old; those 12 and younger must be accompanied by an adult.

Cost: $35 for non-members or $28 for members (a 20% discount off the regular price). To become a member, visit our membership page HERE.

Class size limited to 4.

Nature Journaling Workshop-Kids & Families

July 27, 2022 9:00 - 11:00 am

Aug. 10 & Aug. 24  9-11am   --  Bring a little bit of the outdoors indoors with this Nature Journaling Workshop taught by artist and nature-lover Erika Rosso. Gather tips and techniques for capturing your memorable moments. All materials supplied. This is a terrific family activity; children younger than 12 must be accompanied by an adult. Registration required and class size is limited.

Birds and Books Craft Activity with the Southwest Harbor Public Library

July 27, 2022 1:00 - 2:00 pm

We’re teaming up with the Southwest Harbor Public Library on July 27 at 1pm for a special Birds and Books at the library! Learn about feathers and make some Loon art.  Children younger than 7 must be accompanied by an adult.

Workshop size is limited and registration required, but since this event is happening at the library, please sign up directly with them HERE

 

Carving Classes with Steve Valleau

July 28, 2022 10:30 am - 12:00 pm

Learn carving on Tuesdays and Thursdays from our master carver, Steve Valleau, who has been sharing this art with students at the museum for 37 years. This 1.5-hour class, suitable for beginners, comes with a kit that includes a bird blank and paints. Tools are available to borrow. Learn the basics of this classic American art form, and leave with something you create in our outdoor classroom. Last class for the season is Tuesday, Sept. 13.

No classes on: June 30, August 16 or August 18

Students must be at least 11 years old; those 12 and younger must be accompanied by an adult.

Cost: $35 for non-members or $28 for members (a 20% discount off the regular price). To become a member, visit our membership page HERE.

Class size limited to 4.

Carving Classes with Steve Valleau

July 28, 2022 1:30 - 3:00 pm

Learn carving on Tuesdays and Thursdays from our master carver, Steve Valleau, who has been sharing this art with students at the museum for 37 years. This 1.5-hour class, suitable for beginners, comes with a kit that includes a bird blank and paints. Tools are available to borrow. Learn the basics of this classic American art form, and leave with something you create in our outdoor classroom. Last class for the season is Tuesday, Sept. 13.

No classes on: June 30, August 16 or August 18

Students must be at least 11 years old; those 12 and younger must be accompanied by an adult.

Cost: $35 for non-members or $28 for members (a 20% discount off the regular price). To become a member, visit our membership page HERE.

Class size limited to 4.

Carving Classes with Steve Valleau

August 2, 2022 10:30 am - 12:00 pm

Learn carving on Tuesdays and Thursdays from our master carver, Steve Valleau, who has been sharing this art with students at the museum for 37 years. This 1.5-hour class, suitable for beginners, comes with a kit that includes a bird blank and paints. Tools are available to borrow. Learn the basics of this classic American art form, and leave with something you create in our outdoor classroom. Last class for the season is Tuesday, Sept. 13.

No classes on: June 30, August 16 or August 18

Students must be at least 11 years old; those 12 and younger must be accompanied by an adult.

Cost: $35 for non-members or $28 for members (a 20% discount off the regular price). To become a member, visit our membership page HERE.

Class size limited to 4.

Carving Classes with Steve Valleau

August 2, 2022 1:30 - 3:00 pm

Learn carving on Tuesdays and Thursdays from our master carver, Steve Valleau, who has been sharing this art with students at the museum for 37 years. This 1.5-hour class, suitable for beginners, comes with a kit that includes a bird blank and paints. Tools are available to borrow. Learn the basics of this classic American art form, and leave with something you create in our outdoor classroom. Last class for the season is Tuesday, Sept. 13.

No classes on: June 30, August 16 or August 18

Students must be at least 11 years old; those 12 and younger must be accompanied by an adult.

Cost: $35 for non-members or $28 for members (a 20% discount off the regular price). To become a member, visit our membership page HERE.

Class size limited to 4.

Are Birds Like You & Me?

August 3, 2022 1:30 - 2:30 pm

Join us to discover the special adaptations that allow birds to survive life in Maine. Through using our curiosity, problem solving skills, senses and imagination we will better appreciate how and what birds eat, build a nest, stay warm, protect themselves, find a mate, move about, and use their senses. Some things may surprise you! Let's explore this interesting and amazing group of animals that share our planet and lives.

Carving Classes with Steve Valleau

August 4, 2022 10:30 am - 12:00 pm

Learn carving on Tuesdays and Thursdays from our master carver, Steve Valleau, who has been sharing this art with students at the museum for 37 years. This 1.5-hour class, suitable for beginners, comes with a kit that includes a bird blank and paints. Tools are available to borrow. Learn the basics of this classic American art form, and leave with something you create in our outdoor classroom. Last class for the season is Tuesday, Sept. 13.

No classes on: June 30, August 16 or August 18

Students must be at least 11 years old; those 12 and younger must be accompanied by an adult.

Cost: $35 for non-members or $28 for members (a 20% discount off the regular price). To become a member, visit our membership page HERE.

Class size limited to 4.

Carving Classes with Steve Valleau

August 4, 2022 1:30 - 3:00 pm

Learn carving on Tuesdays and Thursdays from our master carver, Steve Valleau, who has been sharing this art with students at the museum for 37 years. This 1.5-hour class, suitable for beginners, comes with a kit that includes a bird blank and paints. Tools are available to borrow. Learn the basics of this classic American art form, and leave with something you create in our outdoor classroom. Last class for the season is Tuesday, Sept. 13.

No classes on: June 30, August 16 or August 18

Students must be at least 11 years old; those 12 and younger must be accompanied by an adult.

Cost: $35 for non-members or $28 for members (a 20% discount off the regular price). To become a member, visit our membership page HERE.

Class size limited to 4.

Fun with Feathers

August 5, 2022 10:30 am - 12:00 pm

Have Fun with Feathers in person at the Wendell Gilley Museum on June 23 in a special hands-on workshop. Draw feathers. Use a magnifying glass to see them up close. Learn about their structure and function. Use a feather to draw or paint your own work of art.

Workshop size is limited and masks are required. Children younger than 7 must be accompanied by an adult. 

Feather Art with Erika Rosso

August 5, 2022 1:30 - 3:00 pm

Join us to make art with feathers. Feathers can be a paintbrush or be painted, they can be the subject of the media for your special art. We provide the feathers, paint, yarn, glue and art paper. You bring your creativity. Art teacher Erika Rosso joins us for this special session to help your creativity soar. Registration required. Class size limited. All ages welcome. This is a terrific family activity. We will work in our outdoor classroom at the Gilley. 

Carving Classes with Steve Valleau

August 9, 2022 10:30 am - 12:00 pm

Learn carving on Tuesdays and Thursdays from our master carver, Steve Valleau, who has been sharing this art with students at the museum for 37 years. This 1.5-hour class, suitable for beginners, comes with a kit that includes a bird blank and paints. Tools are available to borrow. Learn the basics of this classic American art form, and leave with something you create in our outdoor classroom. Last class for the season is Tuesday, Sept. 13.

No classes on: June 30, August 16 or August 18

Students must be at least 11 years old; those 12 and younger must be accompanied by an adult.

Cost: $35 for non-members or $28 for members (a 20% discount off the regular price). To become a member, visit our membership page HERE.

Class size limited to 4.

Carving Classes with Steve Valleau

August 9, 2022 1:30 - 3:00 pm

Learn carving on Tuesdays and Thursdays from our master carver, Steve Valleau, who has been sharing this art with students at the museum for 37 years. This 1.5-hour class, suitable for beginners, comes with a kit that includes a bird blank and paints. Tools are available to borrow. Learn the basics of this classic American art form, and leave with something you create in our outdoor classroom. Last class for the season is Tuesday, Sept. 13.

No classes on: June 30, August 16 or August 18

Students must be at least 11 years old; those 12 and younger must be accompanied by an adult.

Cost: $35 for non-members or $28 for members (a 20% discount off the regular price). To become a member, visit our membership page HERE.

Class size limited to 4.

Delve into Bird Photography with David Speiser

August 9, 2022 7:00 - 8:30 pm

Explore the beauty of Maine’s birds through the lens of noted photographer and birder David Speiser, who delves into his exhibit “Birds in Focus” in a presentation at the Wendell Gilley Museum on Tuesday, Aug. 9 at 7pm. This program happens both in-person and online. Indicate when you sign up whether you’ll be attending in person or via Zoom. There is no charge to attend. Sign up at www.wendellgilleymuseum.org/events

How does an exhibit come together? From choosing a theme, deciding on a photo finisher, space concerns, cost, and – most importantly – which images should be displayed? The audience can be the curators! We’ll look at images of the same species and decide which would be a great choice and why. We’ll discuss the artist’s decisions and see if they match up.

David Speiser has been pairing his technical skills and his love of birds for more than 25 years to capture portraits of birds in the field worldwide. His knowledge, talent and keen eye have create amazing works that capture moments of incredible intimacy in the lives of their avian subjects. He leads trips and teaches photography classes for New York City Audubon. His images have been featured at the Central Park Zoo in New York City, the Royal Botanical Gardens of Ontario, in Audubon Magazine, Birder’s World, Birdwatching, Living Bird, The New York Times, The Wall Street Journal, in many National Parks and National Wildlife Refuges, and on a U.S postage stamp. He is a member of the Advisory Council for New York City Audubon and a former member of NYC Audubon’s Board of Directors. See his work at: www.lilibirds.com.

Nature Journaling Workshop-Kids & Families

August 10, 2022 9:00 - 11:00 am

Aug. 10 & Aug. 24  9-11am   --  Bring a little bit of the outdoors indoors with this Nature Journaling Workshop taught by artist and nature-lover Erika Rosso. Gather tips and techniques for capturing your memorable moments. All materials supplied. This is a terrific family activity; children younger than 12 must be accompanied by an adult. Registration required and class size is limited.

Carving Classes with Steve Valleau

August 11, 2022 10:30 am - 12:00 pm

Learn carving on Tuesdays and Thursdays from our master carver, Steve Valleau, who has been sharing this art with students at the museum for 37 years. This 1.5-hour class, suitable for beginners, comes with a kit that includes a bird blank and paints. Tools are available to borrow. Learn the basics of this classic American art form, and leave with something you create in our outdoor classroom. Last class for the season is Tuesday, Sept. 13.

No classes on: June 30, August 16 or August 18

Students must be at least 11 years old; those 12 and younger must be accompanied by an adult.

Cost: $35 for non-members or $28 for members (a 20% discount off the regular price). To become a member, visit our membership page HERE.

Class size limited to 4.

Carving Classes with Steve Valleau

August 11, 2022 1:30 - 3:00 pm

Learn carving on Tuesdays and Thursdays from our master carver, Steve Valleau, who has been sharing this art with students at the museum for 37 years. This 1.5-hour class, suitable for beginners, comes with a kit that includes a bird blank and paints. Tools are available to borrow. Learn the basics of this classic American art form, and leave with something you create in our outdoor classroom. Last class for the season is Tuesday, Sept. 13.

No classes on: June 30, August 16 or August 18

Students must be at least 11 years old; those 12 and younger must be accompanied by an adult.

Cost: $35 for non-members or $28 for members (a 20% discount off the regular price). To become a member, visit our membership page HERE.

Class size limited to 4.

Fun with Feathers

August 12, 2022 10:30 am - 12:00 pm

Have Fun with Feathers in person at the Wendell Gilley Museum on June 23 in a special hands-on workshop. Draw feathers. Use a magnifying glass to see them up close. Learn about their structure and function. Use a feather to draw or paint your own work of art.

Workshop size is limited and masks are required. Children younger than 7 must be accompanied by an adult. 

Are Birds Like You & Me?

August 12, 2022 1:30 - 2:30 pm

Join us to discover the special adaptations that allow birds to survive life in Maine. Through using our curiosity, problem solving skills, senses and imagination we will better appreciate how and what birds eat, build a nest, stay warm, protect themselves, find a mate, move about, and use their senses. Some things may surprise you! Let's explore this interesting and amazing group of animals that share our planet and lives.

Penobscot Artist Explores 'Sense of Place'

August 12, 2022 7:00 - 8:30 pm

Artist James Eric Francis, Sr. explores an indigenous sense of place in the landscape, along with art that expresses that sense of place, in a presentation at the Wendell Gilley Museum on Friday, Aug. 12, at 7p.m.  This program is free but registration is required. When you sign up, please indicate whether you will attend in person or online.  

Mr. Francis is a multi-media artist, painter, graphic artist, photographer and filmmaker. He is also a researcher, and serves as the Penobscot Nation’s tribal historian. He says that Penobscot culture and an indigenous perspective on landscape and nature infuses all of his artwork.

Last year, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Museum and Archives commissioned him and two other indigenous artists to create contemporary art for its permanent museum collection in an exhibit called “American Indians and Conservation,” which opens this year at the Service’s National Conservation Training Center in Shepherdstown, West Virginia.

The piece he created in acrylic on canvas commemorates the reestablishment of Atlantic salmon in the Penobscot River watershed. “Each dot that I painted represents one salmon that was able to go into the Penobscot watershed,” he says. The piece also includes a fishing spear as a cultural connection between the salmon and the Penobscot.

Mr. Francis grew up on Indian Island, the reservation of the Penobscot Nation near Old Town, and studied history at the University of Maine, then earned a Master of Fine Arts from UMaine in Intermedia Fine Arts.

Master Carver Floyd Scholz talks bird carving with us

August 16, 2022 7:00 - 8:30 pm

Master Carver Floyd Scholz is the Wendell Gilley Museum’s People-Nature-Art speaker for August. He will be at the museum Tuesday, Aug.16 at 7pm to share his journey from NCAA decathlon champion, to working as a logger, to being featured in magazines as diverse as Smithsonian Studies in American Art and People Magazine, the latter of which dubbed him “one of the world’s true Renaissance men.” This talk will happen in person, and be live cast simultaneously; registration is required. People-Nature-Art is the Gilley’s monthly speaker series that explores the space where art and nature interact.

The following day, Wednesday, Aug. 17, he will give a four-hour demonstration of his much-lauded airbrush painting technique beginning at 10am. People are welcome to attend all or part of this demonstration, but registration is required.

There is no fee for either of these events.

Much like Wendell Gilley himself, Mr. Scholz began carving as a hobby while making a living doing something else. "Since 1968 I've had the pleasure of pursuing what has become my life-long passion of transformation—taking a block of wood, and with careful planning and carving, transforming it into a beautiful bird,” he says. Mr. Scholz “quit his day job” and became a full-time carver in 1983.

He is a five-time U.S. National Champion bird carver, and won the World Master’s Best in Show Championship in 2005, and his work has been chosen for the international juried art show Birds in Art at the Leigh Yawkey Woodson Museum. In 2014 he was named a Living Legend by the prestigious Ward Museum of Wildfowl Art.

Master Carver Offers 4-hour Painting Demo

August 17, 2022 10:00 am - 2:00 pm

Master Carver Floyd Scholz gives a four-hour demo of his airbrush painting technique at the Gilley on Wednesday, Aug. 17, from 10am to 2pm.

"The art of bird carving is not 'wooden taxidermy,'" Mr. Scholz says. "Bird carving is sculpture in its highest and purest sense."

Mr. Scholz replicates a dazzling array of feather colors, patterns and plumage variation as part of his work. From the cryptic patterning found throughout the body of a great horned owl, to the brilliant blue of a male bluebird, he says bird artists are faced with the daunting challenge of replicating this on the hard surface of the carved, wooden bird.

He invites you to challenge yourself to learn more about this "most important aspect of the art form by joining me for an in-depth demonstration of dynamic color theory, and procedure including airbrush demonstrations."

The demo will include the importance of surface preparation and proper color application to bring forth the beauty and subtlety of a bird`s plumage. All aspects of the art form including design, carving, texturing and most importantly the painting process will be covered in great detail. Special emphasis will be placed upon the versatile application and magic of airbrushing.

Questions welcome.

No fee, but registration is required. You may attend all or part of this demo. 

Carving Classes with Steve Valleau

August 23, 2022 10:30 am - 12:00 pm

Learn carving on Tuesdays and Thursdays from our master carver, Steve Valleau, who has been sharing this art with students at the museum for 37 years. This 1.5-hour class, suitable for beginners, comes with a kit that includes a bird blank and paints. Tools are available to borrow. Learn the basics of this classic American art form, and leave with something you create in our outdoor classroom. Last class for the season is Tuesday, Sept. 13.

No classes on: June 30, August 16 or August 18

Students must be at least 11 years old; those 12 and younger must be accompanied by an adult.

Cost: $35 for non-members or $28 for members (a 20% discount off the regular price). To become a member, visit our membership page HERE.

Class size limited to 4.

Carving Classes with Steve Valleau

August 23, 2022 1:30 - 3:00 pm

Learn carving on Tuesdays and Thursdays from our master carver, Steve Valleau, who has been sharing this art with students at the museum for 37 years. This 1.5-hour class, suitable for beginners, comes with a kit that includes a bird blank and paints. Tools are available to borrow. Learn the basics of this classic American art form, and leave with something you create in our outdoor classroom. Last class for the season is Tuesday, Sept. 13.

No classes on: June 30, August 16 or August 18

Students must be at least 11 years old; those 12 and younger must be accompanied by an adult.

Cost: $35 for non-members or $28 for members (a 20% discount off the regular price). To become a member, visit our membership page HERE.

Class size limited to 4.

Nature Journaling Workshop-Kids & Families

August 24, 2022 9:00 - 11:00 am

Aug. 10 & Aug. 24  9-11am   --  Bring a little bit of the outdoors indoors with this Nature Journaling Workshop taught by artist and nature-lover Erika Rosso. Gather tips and techniques for capturing your memorable moments. All materials supplied. This is a terrific family activity; children younger than 12 must be accompanied by an adult. Registration required and class size is limited.

Carving Classes with Steve Valleau

August 25, 2022 10:30 am - 12:00 pm

Learn carving on Tuesdays and Thursdays from our master carver, Steve Valleau, who has been sharing this art with students at the museum for 37 years. This 1.5-hour class, suitable for beginners, comes with a kit that includes a bird blank and paints. Tools are available to borrow. Learn the basics of this classic American art form, and leave with something you create in our outdoor classroom. Last class for the season is Tuesday, Sept. 13.

No classes on: June 30, August 16 or August 18

Students must be at least 11 years old; those 12 and younger must be accompanied by an adult.

Cost: $35 for non-members or $28 for members (a 20% discount off the regular price). To become a member, visit our membership page HERE.

Class size limited to 4.

Carving Classes with Steve Valleau

August 25, 2022 1:30 - 3:00 pm

Learn carving on Tuesdays and Thursdays from our master carver, Steve Valleau, who has been sharing this art with students at the museum for 37 years. This 1.5-hour class, suitable for beginners, comes with a kit that includes a bird blank and paints. Tools are available to borrow. Learn the basics of this classic American art form, and leave with something you create in our outdoor classroom. Last class for the season is Tuesday, Sept. 13.

No classes on: June 30, August 16 or August 18

Students must be at least 11 years old; those 12 and younger must be accompanied by an adult.

Cost: $35 for non-members or $28 for members (a 20% discount off the regular price). To become a member, visit our membership page HERE.

Class size limited to 4.

Plein Air Painting Aug. 26

August 26, 2022 9:00 am - 12:00 pm

Join the Wendell Gilley Museum and artist Erika Rosso for a watercolor class outdoors.

This class is suitable for beginner to intermediate painters but does require curiosity and a willingness to experiment! Erika has a positive and experimental teaching style that builds confidence in budding artists, making it joyous to learn and create. This is a class for adults but also accepts mature students aged 12 and older. Registration is required and space is limited.

Are Birds Like You & Me?

August 26, 2022 1:30 - 2:30 pm

Join us to discover the special adaptations that allow birds to survive life in Maine. Through using our curiosity, problem solving skills, senses and imagination we will better appreciate how and what birds eat, build a nest, stay warm, protect themselves, find a mate, move about, and use their senses. Some things may surprise you! Let's explore this interesting and amazing group of animals that share our planet and lives.

Carving Classes with Steve Valleau

August 30, 2022 10:30 am - 12:00 pm

Learn carving on Tuesdays and Thursdays from our master carver, Steve Valleau, who has been sharing this art with students at the museum for 37 years. This 1.5-hour class, suitable for beginners, comes with a kit that includes a bird blank and paints. Tools are available to borrow. Learn the basics of this classic American art form, and leave with something you create in our outdoor classroom. Last class for the season is Tuesday, Sept. 13.

No classes on: June 30, August 16 or August 18

Students must be at least 11 years old; those 12 and younger must be accompanied by an adult.

Cost: $35 for non-members or $28 for members (a 20% discount off the regular price). To become a member, visit our membership page HERE.

Class size limited to 4.

Carving Classes with Steve Valleau

August 30, 2022 1:30 - 3:00 pm

Learn carving on Tuesdays and Thursdays from our master carver, Steve Valleau, who has been sharing this art with students at the museum for 37 years. This 1.5-hour class, suitable for beginners, comes with a kit that includes a bird blank and paints. Tools are available to borrow. Learn the basics of this classic American art form, and leave with something you create in our outdoor classroom. Last class for the season is Tuesday, Sept. 13.

No classes on: June 30, August 16 or August 18

Students must be at least 11 years old; those 12 and younger must be accompanied by an adult.

Cost: $35 for non-members or $28 for members (a 20% discount off the regular price). To become a member, visit our membership page HERE.

Class size limited to 4.

Carving Classes with Steve Valleau

September 1, 2022 10:30 am - 12:00 pm

Learn carving on Tuesdays and Thursdays from our master carver, Steve Valleau, who has been sharing this art with students at the museum for 37 years. This 1.5-hour class, suitable for beginners, comes with a kit that includes a bird blank and paints. Tools are available to borrow. Learn the basics of this classic American art form, and leave with something you create in our outdoor classroom. Last class for the season is Tuesday, Sept. 13.

No classes on: June 30, August 16 or August 18

Students must be at least 11 years old; those 12 and younger must be accompanied by an adult.

Cost: $35 for non-members or $28 for members (a 20% discount off the regular price). To become a member, visit our membership page HERE.

Class size limited to 4.

Carving Classes with Steve Valleau

September 1, 2022 1:30 - 3:00 pm

Learn carving on Tuesdays and Thursdays from our master carver, Steve Valleau, who has been sharing this art with students at the museum for 37 years. This 1.5-hour class, suitable for beginners, comes with a kit that includes a bird blank and paints. Tools are available to borrow. Learn the basics of this classic American art form, and leave with something you create in our outdoor classroom. Last class for the season is Tuesday, Sept. 13.

No classes on: June 30, August 16 or August 18

Students must be at least 11 years old; those 12 and younger must be accompanied by an adult.

Cost: $35 for non-members or $28 for members (a 20% discount off the regular price). To become a member, visit our membership page HERE.

Class size limited to 4.

Carving Classes with Steve Valleau

September 6, 2022 10:30 am - 12:00 pm

Learn carving on Tuesdays and Thursdays from our master carver, Steve Valleau, who has been sharing this art with students at the museum for 37 years. This 1.5-hour class, suitable for beginners, comes with a kit that includes a bird blank and paints. Tools are available to borrow. Learn the basics of this classic American art form, and leave with something you create in our outdoor classroom. Last class for the season is Tuesday, Sept. 13.

No classes on: June 30, August 16 or August 18

Students must be at least 11 years old; those 12 and younger must be accompanied by an adult.

Cost: $35 for non-members or $28 for members (a 20% discount off the regular price). To become a member, visit our membership page HERE.

Class size limited to 4.

Carving Classes with Steve Valleau

September 6, 2022 1:30 - 3:00 pm

Learn carving on Tuesdays and Thursdays from our master carver, Steve Valleau, who has been sharing this art with students at the museum for 37 years. This 1.5-hour class, suitable for beginners, comes with a kit that includes a bird blank and paints. Tools are available to borrow. Learn the basics of this classic American art form, and leave with something you create in our outdoor classroom. Last class for the season is Tuesday, Sept. 13.

No classes on: June 30, August 16 or August 18

Students must be at least 11 years old; those 12 and younger must be accompanied by an adult.

Cost: $35 for non-members or $28 for members (a 20% discount off the regular price). To become a member, visit our membership page HERE.

Class size limited to 4.

Carving Classes with Steve Valleau

September 8, 2022 10:30 am - 12:00 pm

Learn carving on Tuesdays and Thursdays from our master carver, Steve Valleau, who has been sharing this art with students at the museum for 37 years. This 1.5-hour class, suitable for beginners, comes with a kit that includes a bird blank and paints. Tools are available to borrow. Learn the basics of this classic American art form, and leave with something you create in our outdoor classroom. Last class for the season is Tuesday, Sept. 13.

No classes on: June 30, August 16 or August 18

Students must be at least 11 years old; those 12 and younger must be accompanied by an adult.

Cost: $35 for non-members or $28 for members (a 20% discount off the regular price). To become a member, visit our membership page HERE.

Class size limited to 4.

Carving Classes with Steve Valleau

September 8, 2022 1:30 - 3:00 pm

Learn carving on Tuesdays and Thursdays from our master carver, Steve Valleau, who has been sharing this art with students at the museum for 37 years. This 1.5-hour class, suitable for beginners, comes with a kit that includes a bird blank and paints. Tools are available to borrow. Learn the basics of this classic American art form, and leave with something you create in our outdoor classroom. Last class for the season is Tuesday, Sept. 13.

No classes on: June 30, August 16 or August 18

Students must be at least 11 years old; those 12 and younger must be accompanied by an adult.

Cost: $35 for non-members or $28 for members (a 20% discount off the regular price). To become a member, visit our membership page HERE.

Class size limited to 4.

Carving Classes with Steve Valleau

September 13, 2022 10:30 am - 12:00 pm

Learn carving on Tuesdays and Thursdays from our master carver, Steve Valleau, who has been sharing this art with students at the museum for 37 years. This 1.5-hour class, suitable for beginners, comes with a kit that includes a bird blank and paints. Tools are available to borrow. Learn the basics of this classic American art form, and leave with something you create in our outdoor classroom. Last class for the season is Tuesday, Sept. 13.

No classes on: June 30, August 16 or August 18

Students must be at least 11 years old; those 12 and younger must be accompanied by an adult.

Cost: $35 for non-members or $28 for members (a 20% discount off the regular price). To become a member, visit our membership page HERE.

Class size limited to 4.

Carving Classes with Steve Valleau

September 13, 2022 1:30 - 3:00 pm

Learn carving on Tuesdays and Thursdays from our master carver, Steve Valleau, who has been sharing this art with students at the museum for 37 years. This 1.5-hour class, suitable for beginners, comes with a kit that includes a bird blank and paints. Tools are available to borrow. Learn the basics of this classic American art form, and leave with something you create in our outdoor classroom. Last class for the season is Tuesday, Sept. 13.

No classes on: June 30, August 16 or August 18

Students must be at least 11 years old; those 12 and younger must be accompanied by an adult.

Cost: $35 for non-members or $28 for members (a 20% discount off the regular price). To become a member, visit our membership page HERE.

Class size limited to 4.

Writing Workshop Nov. 12

September 17, 2022 9:00 am - 12:00 pm

 

This workshop is designed to help you unlock your creativity and leave with some works in progress, and to have some fun along the way. Get inspired by pieces from the museum's permanent collection and current exhibitions, with writer and artist Annaliese Jakimides. Her prose and poetry have been published in magazines, journals, and anthologies; broadcast on NPR and Maine Public; and included in art venues such as ArtWord at the Portland Museum of Art. She will provide some background about this type of writing ekphrastic writing plus techniques, and prompts to get you going. But ultimately you choose your path.
 

People-Nature-Art with Fine Art Photographer Cheryle St. Onge

September 20, 2022 7:00 - 8:30 pm

Cheryle St. Onge is a fine art photographer whose work is deeply connected to the natural world, with a focus on the crossover of art and science, and photography's ability to distill our sense of time and curiosity. She makes pictures predominantly with an 8 x 10 view camera and considers her work a collaborative process. She has been named one of the ‘Top 50 Photographers’ in the country by Time Magazine.

She joins the Gilley online as the September People-Nature-Art presenter on Tuesday, Sept. 20 at 7pm.

Her photographs are in many private and public collections, including the University of New Mexico Art Museum, the Houston Museum of Fine Arts, the Cassilhaus Collection, and the Guggenheim Foundation.

Her photographs have also been widely exhibited, most notably at London’s National Portrait Gallery, Princeton University, Griffin Museum, University of Rhode Island, Massachusetts College of Art, Rick Wester Fine Arts, and with the American Institute of Architects traveling exhibition. She has received numerous awards and residences, among them a 2009 John Simon Guggenheim Fellowship, a Critical Mass Finalist Exhibition Award, Polaroid Materials Artist Support Grant, a Massachusetts Institute of Technology Graduate Fellowship.

She divides her time between Durham, New Hampshire, and coastal Maine. 

Painting classes with Barry van Dusen

September 24 - 25, 2022

Award-winning artist Barry van Dusen joins us in person for a special two-day painting workshop Sept. 24-25. 

Combining a lifelong interest in nature with a formal art education, Barry has developed a style that acknowledges the importance of science and biology while maintaining the primacy of artistic expression. His paintings have been described as a unique blend of impressionism and realism, and his exhibition paintings always arise from direct personal experience. Built upon a foundation of fieldwork and strong draftsmanship, they are carefully planned but freely executed in a direct and painterly manner. 

The first day of this workshop happens at the Gilley Museum from 9am to 3pm with an hour for lunch; it will be an intensive teaching day. The second day, students will move outside to paint live animal subjects at the Acadia Wildlife Center from 1 to 4:30 p.m.; students will have more time this day to work independently, with tips and assistance from Barry.

Cost is $100 for this two-class session for non-members, and $80 for museum members. Lunch is not included. If you want to sign up for one day only, please contact Director of Engagement Melinda Rice-Schoon directly at mel@wendellgilleymuseum.org.

Mr. van Dusen is an internationally respected wildlife artist whose career has taken him all over the world. His work is frequently chosen for Birds in Art, the Leigh Yawkey Woodson Art Museum's prestigious annual juried art show; in 2014 he was chosen by that museum as a Master Wildlife Artist. He is a full member of London's Society of Wildlife Artists, and his work is regularly exhibited worldwide. His articles and paintings have been featured in Bird Watcher's Digest, Birding, and Yankee magazines, and he has illustrated a variety of natural history books and pocket guides in association with the Massachusetts Audubon Society.

He prefers to work in the field, even with difficult subjects such as wild birds. Over the years, he has filled countless sketchbooks with hundreds of drawings done on location. Birds, he says, were his gateway to a passion for nature.

In 2020 he was one of two artists to provide illustrations for the book "Birds of Maine," the first comprehensive overview of Maine’s avian inhabitants in more than seven decades. For another book published in 2020, "Finding Sanctuary: An Artist Explores the Nature of Mass Audubon," he provided all the text as well as the illustrations, based on his visits to all 60 Mass Audubon sites over more than four years.

 

An Evening with Printmaker Sherrie York

September 30, 2022 5:30 - 8:30 pm

Printmaker Sherrie York, the artist behind Moments & Reflections, the exhibit currently in the Gilley’s Special Exhibit Room, will be with us in person at the museum on Friday, Sept. 30 at 7pm to share insights, talk about her artistic process, and share stories from her artist’s journey. Join us before the presentation for a reception honoring Sherrie and her work from 5:30 to 6:45pm.

This talk is free and open to all, but registration is required. It will be livecast simultaneously. When you sign up, please indicated whether you will be attending the presentation in person or online, and if you'll be attending the reception in person.

In her linocuts, she strives to represent the interactions of living things, both as a moment in time and as a reflection of the wider experience of life on earth.

As a printmaker she has pushed the linocut medium to be uncharacteristically realistic, treating the application of color as a watercolorist might, with special interest given to strong rhythms and patterns between a subject and its environment.

Her linocuts have been chosen for national and international exhibitions, including the multiples times for the Leigh Yawkey Woodson Museum’s prestigious Birds in Art, and the Society of Animal Artists’ Art & the Animal. Her work is also collected in numerous museum, corporate and private collections.

She is also a naturalist and educator, who works with the Acadia Birding Festival and Maine Audubon.

1-color Printmaking Classes with Sherrie York

October 1, 2022 9:00 am - 12:00 pm

Join Maine printmaker Sherrie York at the Gilley on Wednesday, Oct. 18 from 10:30am to 1:30pm, in a class to create vibrant one-color prints using EZ carve, a printmaking material that is softer and easier to use than linoleum blocks. Materials will be provided – just bring an idea for a simple nature image you'd like to turn into a woodblock-style print. Space is limited and participants must be at least 10 years old. 

Cost is $35 per person for non-members, and $28 for members. Registration is required.

Sherrie is an award-winning artist whose work is frequently chosen for Birds in Art, a prestigious annual juried art show. Her work has also been featured in other national and international exhibitions, including the Society of Animal Artists’ Art & the Animal, and in 2019 a major exhibition of her work was hosted at the Museum of American Bird Art in Massachusetts.

She has been an invited artist on projects of the international Artists for Nature Foundation and has been Artist-in-Residence at Acadia National Park, the National Audubon Society, and the Leigh Yawkey Woodson Art Museum. Her work is in many museum and corporate collections.

1-color Printmaking Classes with Sherrie York

October 1, 2022 1:00 - 4:00 pm

Join Maine printmaker Sherrie York at the Gilley on Wednesday, Oct. 18 from 10:30am to 1:30pm, in a class to create vibrant one-color prints using EZ carve, a printmaking material that is softer and easier to use than linoleum blocks. Materials will be provided – just bring an idea for a simple nature image you'd like to turn into a woodblock-style print. Space is limited and participants must be at least 10 years old. 

Cost is $35 per person for non-members, and $28 for members. Registration is required.

Sherrie is an award-winning artist whose work is frequently chosen for Birds in Art, a prestigious annual juried art show. Her work has also been featured in other national and international exhibitions, including the Society of Animal Artists’ Art & the Animal, and in 2019 a major exhibition of her work was hosted at the Museum of American Bird Art in Massachusetts.

She has been an invited artist on projects of the international Artists for Nature Foundation and has been Artist-in-Residence at Acadia National Park, the National Audubon Society, and the Leigh Yawkey Woodson Art Museum. Her work is in many museum and corporate collections.

People-Nature-Art with painter Michael Boardman Oct. 11

October 11, 2022 7:00 - 8:30 pm

Michael Boardman is a master naturalist and a masterful artist who finds inspiration in wild places. “Where the wild things are – that’s what gets my creative spark going,” he says, “places that are pristine enough to support communities of life that don’t walk around on two legs. Places where you can feel humbled and unimportant.”

He will bring his passion, vision, and talent to the Gilley as the museum’s October People-Nature-Art presenter, on Tuesday, Oct. 11 at 7pm. This program will be in person, and livecast simultaneously. There is no fee to attend, but registration is required. Please indicate when you sign up whether you will attend in person or online.

For more than 20 years he has field-sketched, drawn and painted animals from Baxter State Park to Eastern Africa, and what he calls “fortunate alignments” have allowed him to connect his artwork with science and conservation. He says the combination of art and science is essential to his work. His training as a Maine Master Naturalist gives him insight into the interconnected nature of wildlife and landscape, and this comes through in his work. Michael works mostly in watercolor in the field, painting when time permits or field sketching when not.

He was the Visiting Artist at Baxter State Park in 2010; the Artist in Residence at Acadia National Park in 2012; in Glacier Bay National Park in the summer of 2015 for the Voices of the Wilderness residency; and in the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge in 2019.

Citizen Science Walk Oct. 22

October 22, 2022 9:00 - 11:30 am

 

Join the Wendell Gilley Museum and Seth Benz from Schoodic Institute for a citizen science exploration at Sieur du Monts in Acadia National Park on Saturday, Oct. 22, from 9 to 11:30 a.m. No prior field experience is necessary. This is a learn-by-doing event where your efforts will contribute vital data toward understanding the changing biodiversity of Acadia National Park.

The morning will include a discovery walk on easy trails, and learning to gather data about plants, insects and birds using iNaturalist, Nature's Notebook, and eBird. These are popular tools that make science and data collection accessible to everyone. And October is an important month for plants and wildlife as they migrate and transition for winter.

Seth Benz is Schoodic Institute's Bird Ecology Director. Registration is required and there is a $10 fee per person. Space is limited.

Printmaking Workshop Nov. 5

November 5, 2022 10:00 am - 4:00 pm

 

Printmaker Sherrie York returns to the Gilley on Saturday, Nov. 5 to teach a full-day workshop using multiple colors. The class is 10am to 4pm, class size is limited, and registration is required.

Materials will be provided – just bring an idea for an image you'd like to turn into a woodblock-style print. This is a workshop suitable for adults. The cost is $70 per person for non-members, and $56 for members.  

Sherrie’s art is currently on display in the Gilley’s Special Exhibits Gallery in an exhibit called Moments & Reflections and will be on display through Dec. 17.

She is an award-winning artist whose work is frequently chosen for Birds in Art, a prestigious annual juried art show. Her work has also been featured in other national and international exhibitions, including the Society of Animal Artists’ Art & the Animal, and in 2019 a major exhibition of her work was hosted at the Museum of American Bird Art in Massachusetts.

She has been an invited artist on projects of the international Artists for Nature Foundation and has been Artist-in-Residence at Acadia National Park, the National Audubon Society, and the Leigh Yawkey Woodson Art Museum. Her work is in many museum and corporate collections.

Writing Workshop Nov. 12

November 12, 2022 9:00 am - 12:00 pm

 

This workshop is designed to help you unlock your creativity and leave with some works in progress, and to have some fun along the way. Get inspired by pieces from the museum's permanent collection and current exhibitions, with writer and artist Annaliese Jakimides. Her prose and poetry have been published in magazines, journals, and anthologies; broadcast on NPR and Maine Public; and included in art venues such as ArtWord at the Portland Museum of Art. She will provide some background about this type of writing ekphrastic writing plus techniques, and prompts to get you going. But ultimately you choose your path.
 

Nov. 15 PNA with former Maine poet laureate Stuart Kestenbaum

November 15, 2022 7:00 - 8:30 pm

 

The Wendell Gilley Museum welcomes former Maine Poet Laureate Stuart Kestenbaum as the museum’s November People-Nature-Art guest, on Tuesday, Nov. 15 at 7pm in this program is an online-only event. It is free and open to all, but registration is required.

Stuart Kestenbaum is the author of six collections of poems; a book of brief essays on craft and community called “The View from Here”; he compiled and edited “Visualizing Nature” a set of deeply personal essays on nature, ecology, sustainability, climate change, and philosophy by a wide range of contributors that honor nature's power to heal, inspire, guide, amaze, and strengthen.

He has written and spoken widely on craft making and creativity, and his poems and writing have appeared in small press publications and magazines. He served as Maine’s poet laureate from 2016-2021 and hosted “Poems from Here” on Maine Public Radi,  and was the host/curator of the podcasts Make/Time and Voices of the Future.

He was the director of the Haystack Mountain School of Crafts in Deer Isle, Maine for over twenty-five years, and was elected an honorary fellow of the American Craft Council in 2006. More recently, working with the Libra Foundation, he has designed and implemented a residency program for artists and writers called Monson Arts.

Fantastical Felted Fish Class

December 3, 2022 9:00 am - 12:00 pm

 

A second class has been added! The morning class is full but there are spots available in the afternoon (1-4pm class) .

Make a Fantastical Felted Fish with Cristy Benson at the Wendell Gilley Museum on Saturday, Dec. 3. There are two sessions: 9am-Noon and 1-4pm. All materials provided. $15 for non-members and $12 for members.

Fantastical Felted Fish Class

December 3, 2022 1:00 - 4:00 pm

 

A second class has been added! The morning class is full but there are spots available in the afternoon (1-4pm class) .

Make a Fantastical Felted Fish with Cristy Benson at the Wendell Gilley Museum on Saturday, Dec. 3. There are two sessions: 9am-Noon and 1-4pm. All materials provided. $15 for non-members and $12 for members.

Dec. 13 PNA with fiber artist Catherine Danae

December 13, 2022 7:00 - 8:30 pm

 

Catherine Danae sculpts animals with needle and felting wool. She calls herself  ‘a maker who loves the outdoors,'”  and she will be the December People-Nature-Art presenter for the Gilley on Tuesday, Dec. 13 at 7pm in an online-only program.

The beauty of nature is the endless colors and textures,” she says. “I am surrounded by inspiration, and try to show my passion for the outdoors in my work.” An avid fan of fishing, she frequently depicts fish in her sculptures, with birds and prehistoric creatures also making frequent appearances.

In addition to the art aspect of her creations, she hopes interacting with often hard-to-touch creatures opens the door to talk about conservation.

Ms. Danae lives in Pennsylvania and runs a business called Rod and Needle. She has had artist residencies at Petrified Forest National Park, John Day Fossil Beds National Monument, and Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park.

This program is free but registration is required at www.wendellgilleymuseum.org/events

It will be recorded, but access to the recordings is a members-only benefit.

Linocut Holiday Card Class

December 16, 2022 9:00 am - 12:00 pm

Create your own holiday or seasonal cards by carving and printing with linoleum blocks, here at the Wendell Gilley Museum in a workshop on Friday, Dec. 16 from 9am to noon. This class is for adults and teens; the fee is $20 for museum members and $25 for non-members. The Gilley’s own Juliana Ramirez artist and field biologist — will guide you through the process of making multiple, festive, one-color printed cards using EZ Carve, a printmaking material that is softer and easier to use than standard linoleum blocks. All materials will be provided, but bring an idea for a simple image you'd like to turn into a woodblock-style print. Class size is limited.  

Community Open House & Art Show

December 18, 2022 1:00 - 4:00 pm

Gather as a community and enjoy the creative spirit of MDI at the Wendell Gilley Museum for the Museum's annual Community Open House & Art Show on Sunday, Dec. 18, from 1 to 4 p.m.. Admission is free and light refreshments will be served.

We will have a special one-day-only exhibit of art created at the Gilley in 2022, everything from bird drawings by third-graders to bird carvings by long-time carvers. There will be felted fish and birds made of butternut, linocut prints and pencil drawings.

This exhibit will include a special section devoted to work produced as part of the Fall HandWorks Festival that was a collaboration with ArtWaves this year. It will feature baskets, felted rugs, knitting and more.

This is also the last chance to see the exhibition in the Gilley’s Special Gallery of the stunning linocut prints of award-winning Maine artist Sherrie York.

Masks will be required inside the museum.

Rebekah Raye kicks off 2023 People-Nature-Art series

January 17, 2023 7:00 - 8:30 pm

 

Rebekah Raye is surrounded by nature in her Maine home, and it inspires the artwork she does every day. "It doesn’t seem to matter where I am," she says, "the sight of an animal, near or far calls my attention. They are consistently in my dreams and daily thoughts. It is a celebration of their lives with us that I wish to interpret and share. I am compelled to paint them, sculpt them and love them." 

We are excited and honored to have her with us as the first People-Nature-Art speaker of 2023. Join us in person or online for a wide-ranging conversation with Rebekah Raye, a painter and sculptor who also writes and illustrates children's books including "The Very Best Bed" and "The Secret Pool."

        This monthly series brings artists, writers, carvers, and creative types of all kinds to the Gilley to explore how nature and art interact in their work, and how their art impacts their own approach nature. All 12 programs in this year’s series are proudly sponsored by our friends at Bar Harbor Bank & Trust. 

    “At Bar Harbor Bank & Trust, we take great pride in partnering with area nonprofits doing important work to keep the community engaged. Wendell Gilley Museum is a wonderful example of this. We are excited to support this special artist series and look forward to the positive impact throughout the region,” says Lisa Parsons, Senior Vice President Regional Marketing .

Beginners' Carving Class

January 27, 2023 10:30 am - 12:00 pm

Get started with bird carving in this workshop from master carver Steve Valleau, who has been sharing this skill with students at the museum for 37 years. This 1.5-hour class, suitable for beginners, comes with a kit that includes a bird blank and paints. Tools are available to borrow. Learn the basics of this classic American art form, and leave with something you create.

Class size limited to 4. Students must be at least 12 years old.

Carve a Pintail in Winter Workshop-Afternoon Class

February 4 - March 25, 2023

In this class, conducted online via Zoom, students will be carving a preening pintail duck in basswood under the guidance of carver-in-residence Steve Valleau. Cornell’s All About Birds describes northern pintails as elegant ducks, with males that are intricately patterned. Seen in Maine during migration, they head to the prairie pothole region of the Great Plains, as well as Canada and Alaska to nest as soon as the ice breaks up. Large groups congregate in wetlands, lakes, bays, and even waddle through agricultural fields eating grains during the winter.  

Students will receive blanks that have been roughed out, and all the materials needed for this carving will be provided.

Fee for the class is: $90 for members or $110 for non-members, plus a $30 materials fee for everyone. For students whose materials must be mailed, there will be an additional $18 fee for shipping. Local students may pick up their materials at the museum.

This class is offered on Saturday afternoons from 1 to 4pm via Zoom, from Feb. 4, 2023 to March 25, 2023. 

Writing Workshop

February 11, 2023 9:00 am - 12:00 pm

Saturday, March 11

This workshop is designed to help you unlock your creativity and leave with some works in progress—and to have some fun along the way. Get inspired by pieces from the museum's permanent collection and current exhibitions with writer and artist Annaliese Jakimides. Her prose and poetry have been published in magazines, journals, and anthologies; broadcast on NPR and Maine Public; and included in art venues such as ArtWord at the Portland Museum of Art. She will provide some background about this type of writing — ekphrastic writing — plus techniques, and prompts to get you going. But ultimately you choose your path.  

Kick off the Great Backyard Bird Count with us!

February 17, 2023 9:00 - 11:00 am

Help kick off the Great Backyard Bird Count with Seth Benz of the Schoodic Institute and the Wendell Gilley Museum on Friday, Feb. 17 from 9 to 11 a.m. at the museum at 4 Herrick Rd. in Southwest Harbor. We’ll cover how to participate in this global event; watch observations roll in from around the world; and we’ll contribute our own observations from Southwest Harbor. This event will combine indoor and outdoor components. No fee, but registration is required at www.wendellgilleymuseum.org/events/

Launched in 1998 by the Cornell Lab of Ornithology and National Audubon Society, the Great Backyard Bird Count was the first online citizen-science project to collect data on wild birds, and to display results in near real time. These observations help scientists better understand global bird populations before one of their annual migrations. Birds Canada joined the project in 2009 In 2013, participants began entering data into eBird, the world’s largest biodiversity-related citizen science project.

Beginners' Carving Class

February 17, 2023 10:30 am - 12:00 pm

Get started with bird carving in this workshop from master carver Steve Valleau, who has been sharing this skill with students at the museum for 37 years. This 1.5-hour class, suitable for beginners, comes with a kit that includes a bird blank and paints. Tools are available to borrow. Learn the basics of this classic American art form, and leave with something you create.

Class size limited to 4. Students must be at least 12 years old.

An Introduction to Letterboxing

February 18, 2023 10:30 am - 12:00 pm

Did you know that there has been an international treasure hunt happening since 1854?  Nowadays thousands of people around the world participate in the global joy that is letterboxing!

Letterboxing is one part mystery, one part treasure hunt, one part art project, and many parts fun for all ages.  Join Matt from Camp Beech Cliff:

-Learn about what Letterboxing is

-How to participate

-Make a personal logbook

-Learn about stamp carving

-Look at many types of stamps

-Find a Couple of special stamps to start your own letterboxing journey

All supplies will be provided, and this will begin indoors and then make its way outside.

People-Nature-Art w/ artist & conservationist Kate Gorringe-Smith

February 21, 2023 7:00 - 8:30 pm

Australian artist Kate Gorringe-Smith works in contemporary and traditional print media in 2D and 3D form and installation. Her art investigates our relationship with the environment: the threats we create vs our connectedness with it. Kate’s work often references migratory shorebirds to illustrate the environmental connections that link us individually and globally. For her "Overwintering Project" she has asked artists to find, visit, and forge a connection with their local migratory shorebird habitat, then create art prints in response to those visits. Join us for a fascinating talk from Down Under.

 

This monthly series brings artists, writers, carvers, and creative types of all kinds to the Gilley to explore how nature and art interact in their work, and how their art impacts their own approach nature. All 12 programs in this year’s series are proudly sponsored by our friends at Bar Harbor Bank & Trust. 

“At Bar Harbor Bank & Trust, we take great pride in partnering with area nonprofits doing important work to keep the community engaged. Wendell Gilley Museum is a wonderful example of this. We are excited to support this special artist series and look forward to the positive impact throughout the region,” says Lisa Parsons, Senior Vice President Regional Marketing Manager.

Reading with Wings: Steve Burrows-The Birder Murder Mysteries

February 28, 2023 5:30 - 7:00 pm

Tuesday, Feb. 28 @ 5:30pm ONLINE 

Join the Southwest Harbor Public Library and the Gilley for the first event of Reading with Wings, a pilot program to jointly host author events. We’ll be joined by Steve Burrows, a journalist and birder who combined those two skillsets to write the Bird Murder Mysteries.  The first book in that series, “A Siege of Bitterns,” won the Crime Writers of Canada award for Best First Novel, and was selected as one of the Globe & Mail’s top 100 books of the year. The seventh Birder Murder mystery, “A Foreboding of Petrels,” was published in September 2022. He will join us online for a conversation with the directors of the library and the museum on Tuesday, Feb. 28 at 5:30. This program is free but registration is required. To learn more the author and his books, visit www.steveburrows.org

Bird Chatter: Informal Discussions, Observations, and Gossip

March 3, 2023 12:30 - 2:00 pm

Flock to the Gilley for a fun and informative few hours with Seth Benz, the bird ecology director at Schoodic Institute. Seth will delve into research and share current sightings and insights. Bring your own questions and curiosity, a favorite bird-related reading, or your latest observations. Depending on weather, the group might go for an optional bird walk outside.

There is no fee for this program, but a museum entrance fee is required. For museum members, museum entry is free. For non-members, the entrance fee is $10 per visit but a one-time Winter Pass is available for $25 and is good through April 30. If you would like to buy a winter pass, you can do so at the museum the day of the program.

Beautiful Blackbird Story & Art

March 10, 2023 10:00 am - 12:00 pm

RESCHEDULED FOR MARCH 10

Join us for a celebration of Ashley Bryan's Beautiful Blackbird, an adaptation of a tale from the Ila-speaking people of Zambia about appreciating one's own heritage and discovering the beauty within. This program is in cooperation with our friends at Island Readers & Writers. After reading the story together, we will make our own artistic interpretations of the story with cut paper and other materials. For ages 5 and older. This event has been rescheduled due to the Feb. 23-24 storm.

Watercolor Techniques for Beginner to Intermediate Painters

March 10, 2023 1:30 - 3:30 pm

Friday, March 10, 130-3:30pm

Learn simple watercolor techniques to bring your paintings to life.  Led by Erika Rosso, students will be playing with the unpredictability of watercolor and using salt, wet washes, and dry brushing to achieve different effects.  Students will also go over the process for more planned works, learning how to draft and prepare for a more detailed watercolor painting.  Students are encouraged to bring a photo of a bird they would like to paint, however we will also have pictures available for you to look through.

Writing Workshop

March 11, 2023 9:00 am - 12:00 pm

Saturday, March 11

This workshop is designed to help you unlock your creativity and leave with some works in progress—and to have some fun along the way. Get inspired by pieces from the museum's permanent collection and current exhibitions with writer and artist Annaliese Jakimides. Her prose and poetry have been published in magazines, journals, and anthologies; broadcast on NPR and Maine Public; and included in art venues such as ArtWord at the Portland Museum of Art. She will provide some background about this type of writing — ekphrastic writing — plus techniques, and prompts to get you going. But ultimately you choose your path.  

Birch Trees and Chickadee Paint 'n' Sip for Families

March 11, 2023 10:30 am - 12:00 pm

RESCHEDULED for Saturday, March11, 10:30am-Noon IN PERSON

Family Fun! Work together to make a painting filled with rainbow birch trees and black-capped chickadees with local artist Erika Rosso. You'll learn a playful approach to watercolor, using salt for special effects and a palette knife for texture. Sip on hot chocolate and cider while creating your art. Suitable for ages 6 and older. Fee: $25 for a family of up to 3 people & $5 for each additional person in the group.

This class was originally planned for March 4 but was rescheduled due to weather.

Beginners' Carving Class

March 17, 2023 10:30 am - 12:00 pm

Get started with bird carving in this workshop from master carver Steve Valleau, who has been sharing this skill with students at the museum for 37 years. This 1.5-hour class, suitable for beginners, comes with a kit that includes a bird blank and paints. Tools are available to borrow. Learn the basics of this classic American art form, and leave with something you create.

Class size limited to 4. Students must be at least 12 years old.

Bird Chatter: Informal Discussions, Observations, and Gossip

March 17, 2023 12:30 - 2:00 pm

Flock to the Gilley for a fun and informative few hours with Seth Benz, the bird ecology director at Schoodic Institute. Seth will delve into research and share current sightings and insights. Bring your own questions and curiosity, a favorite bird-related reading, or your latest observations. Depending on weather, the group might go for an optional bird walk outside.

There is no fee for this program, but a museum entrance fee is required. For museum members, museum entry is free. For non-members, the entrance fee is $10 per visit but a one-time Winter Pass is available for $25 and is good through April 30. If you would like to buy a winter pass, you can do so at the museum the day of the program.

Saturday Sensory Walk

March 18, 2023 10:30 am - 12:00 pm

Take some time to truly engage your senses with Camp Beech Cliff's Matt Cornish as he leads participants on a short Sensory Walk to be active, connect with familiar surroundings in new ways, and see what can be discovered in nature. Our five senses can enhance our experiences of the natural world if we take the time to let them.  We’ll gather at the Gilley at 10:30am on Saturday, March 18, and head to the Causeway and back again, stopping along the way to give each of our senses a chance to shine. 

Reading with Wings: David George Haskell-Sounds Wild and Broken

March 21, 2023 5:30 - 7:00 pm

Join the Southwest Harbor Public Library and the Gilley for the second event of Reading with Wings, a pilot program to jointly host author events. We’ll be joined by David George Haskell an award-winning biologist whose most recent book, “Sounds Wild and Broken: Sonic Marvels, Evolution’s Creativity, and The Crisis Of Sensory Extinction,” was longlisted for the PEN/E. O. Wilson Literary Science Writing Award and was an editor’s choice in the New York Times Book Review. He will join us online for a conversation with the directors of the library and the museum on Tuesday, March 21, at 5:30 p.m. This program is free but registration is required. For more information about this author, visit dghaskell.com

Mountain Paint 'n' Sip

March 24, 2023 6:00 - 8:00 pm

Create a painting of mountains in the moonlight with local artist and teacher Erika Rosso in this step-by-step class. You’ll learn how to apply masking fluid, how to use salt for special effects, and how to make a watercolor wash. Suitable for all levels. In-person only at the Gilley. Sip on wine, tea or seltzer. Fee: $25 for members and $30 for non-members.

People-Nature-Art with journalist Bob Duchesne

March 28, 2023 5:30 - 8:30 pm

Bob Duchesne will bring his unique perspective as a birder, birding guide, and journalist to the Gilley for this in-person People-Nature-Art event. He writes widely about birding in Maine, including a weekly birding column for the Bangor Daily News. He served six terms in the Maine House of Representatives, chairing the Environment and Natural Resources Committee and the Inland Fisheries & Wildlife Committee. Currently he serves on Maine Board of Environmental Protection.

This event includes an in-person reception at 5:30pm at the Gilley followed by an in-person presentation, which will also be livecast via Zoom. There is no charge, but reservations are required. When you sign up, please indicate whether you will attend remotely or in person.

 

This monthly series brings artists, writers, carvers, and creative types of all kinds to the Gilley to explore how nature and art interact in their work, and how their art impacts their own approach nature. All 12 programs in this year’s series are proudly sponsored by our friends at Bar Harbor Bank & Trust. 

“At Bar Harbor Bank & Trust, we take great pride in partnering with area nonprofits doing important work to keep the community engaged. Wendell Gilley Museum is a wonderful example of this. We are excited to support this special artist series and look forward to the positive impact throughout the region,” says Lisa Parsons, Senior Vice President Regional Marketing Manager.

Story Time!

March 31, 2023 2:30 - 3:30 pm

Join Miss Chrissy from the Southwest Harbor Public Library at the Wendell Gilley Museum for a special story time at 2:30pm. Join us for nature stories and some art fun too! She'll be sharing "Birds" by Kevin Henkes & "Up in the Garden and Down in the Dirt" by Kate Messner. Then we’ll do some art of our own. Free and open to all.

Peacock Paintings

April 1, 2023 1:30 - 3:30 pm

Dive into the whimsical world of artist Starla Michelle to create a beautiful peacock painting with Erika Rosso on canvas with acrylics. Erika will lead you through a step-by-step process and you’ll leave with a canvas painting of your own. This class uses acrylic paint, so wear old clothes or bring a smock. Suitable for ages 7+.  Fee: $20, members & $25 non-members.

Acadia Sunset Paint 'n' Sip

April 7, 2023 6:00 - 8:00 pm

Paint a simple landscape with mountains, a sunset and islands with Erika Rosso in this step-by-step class. Each step will be demonstrated and explained, making for a fun and approachable class for beginning painters. Suitable for all levels. Sip on wine, tea or seltzer. Fee: $25 for members and $30 for non-members.

Beginners' Carving Class

April 14, 2023 10:30 am - 12:00 pm

Get started with bird carving in this workshop from master carver Steve Valleau, who has been sharing this skill with students at the museum for 37 years. This 1.5-hour class, suitable for beginners, comes with a kit that includes a bird blank and paints. Tools are available to borrow. Learn the basics of this classic American art form, and leave with something you create.

Class size limited to 4. Students must be at least 12 years old.

Bird Chatter: Informal Discussions, Observations, and Gossip

April 14, 2023 12:30 - 2:00 pm

Flock to the Gilley for a fun and informative few hours with Seth Benz, the bird ecology director at Schoodic Institute. Seth will delve into research and share current sightings and insights. Bring your own questions and curiosity, a favorite bird-related reading, or your latest observations. Depending on weather, the group might go for an optional bird walk outside.

There is no fee for this program, but a museum entrance fee is required. For museum members, museum entry is free. For non-members, the entrance fee is $10 per visit but a one-time Winter Pass is available for $25 and is good through April 30. If you would like to buy a winter pass, you can do so at the museum the day of the program.

Story Time!

April 14, 2023 2:30 - 3:30 pm

Join Miss Chrissy from the Southwest Harbor Public Library at the Wendell Gilley Museum for a special story time at 2:30pm. Join us for nature stories and some art fun too!Then we’ll do some art of our own. Free and open to all.

Poetry with Stuart Kestenbaum April 15

April 15, 2023 2:00 - 4:00 pm

For National Poetry Month, this former Maine Poet Laureate joins us for an afternoon of his verse and an exploration of its connections with nature. This will be followed by a book signing and reception. This event happens in-person at the Gilley, but will be live-streamed as well. Please note: Recordings of live-streamed events are available only to Museum members. Free but registration required. Free.

People-Nature-Art with poet & printmaker Leslie Moore

April 25, 2023 5:30 - 8:30 pm

A California native who continually studied and refined her art skills while making a career of teaching English around the world, Leslie Moore is a full-time poet and printmaker who takes her inspiration from the natural world. Her book, What Rough Beasts, features both art forms. At the Gilley she’ll explore the alchemy that helps her poetry and prints spring from her connection to nature. This event will be livecast via Zoom. Please note: recordings are available only to museum members. We will begin at 5:30 with a reception and book signing, followed by the program at 7pm. Please indicate which you will be attending when you sign up. There is no charge to attend.

 

This monthly series brings artists, writers, carvers, and creative types of all kinds to the Gilley to explore how nature and art interact in their work, and how their art impacts their own approach nature. All 12 programs in this year’s series are proudly sponsored by our friends at Bar Harbor Bank & Trust. 

“At Bar Harbor Bank & Trust, we take great pride in partnering with area nonprofits doing important work to keep the community engaged. Wendell Gilley Museum is a wonderful example of this. We are excited to support this special artist series and look forward to the positive impact throughout the region,” says Lisa Parsons, Senior Vice President Regional Marketing Manager.

 

Bee House Workshop

April 28, 2023 10:30 am - 1:30 pm

Build a bee house for non-stinging Mason bees and leaf-cutter bees in this special workshop. In these bee houses, the cavities are 5-inch-deep drilled holes — deep enough, we hope, to be safe from a woodpecker tongue. This is a great family project. All materials provided. Participants must be at least 7. This is an in-person program.

Bird Chatter: Informal Discussions, Observations, and Gossip

April 28, 2023 12:30 - 2:00 pm

Flock to the Gilley for a fun and informative few hours with Seth Benz, the bird ecology director at Schoodic Institute. Seth will delve into research and share current sightings and insights. Bring your own questions and curiosity, a favorite bird-related reading, or your latest observations. Depending on weather, the group might go for an optional bird walk outside.

There is no fee for this program, but a museum entrance fee is required. For museum members, museum entry is free. For non-members, the entrance fee is $10 per visit but a one-time Winter Pass is available for $25 and is good through April 30. If you would like to buy a winter pass, you can do so at the museum the day of the program.

Intro to Nature Journaling

April 29, 2023 10:30 am - 12:00 pm

Get started with nature journaling in this workshop at the Gilley on Saturday, April 29, from 10:30am to noon. Scientists, artists, and outdoor enthusiasts all utilize nature journaling, a skill that is accessible to anyone. Using real scientific practices and artistic abandon, participants will walk away with a small nature journal of their own. All materials will be provided. This workshop will be taught by Camp Beech Cliff's Matt Cornish.

“Nature journaling is a wonderful way to engage observational skills, curiosity, and creative thinking,” he says Regardless of age, people need nature. People also need the time and space to slow down, notice the world around them, and hopefully experience wonder.”

The class meets in person at the Museum. Cost is $10 for museum members and $15 for non-members. Registration required.  

 

Online: Watercolor with Barry van Dusen

April 29, 2023 1:30 - 4:00 pm

Learn from this award-winning and internationally renown wildlife artist, in a class with an emphasis on color and using washes. This class happens online, but with a twist. Barry will be on the big screen at the Gilley and you can choose to paint in person at the museum, or take the class online from home.

Fee: $30 for members and $40 for non-members.

People-Nature-Art with painter Mary Brooking

May 16, 2023 7:00 - 8:30 pm

 

Painter Mary Brooking celebrates what she sees in nature and aims to create spaces that interact with human senses on a primitive level and test the balance between reality and abstraction. She employs reduction rather than embellishment, distilling elemental truths about the places she paints through interactive color, texture and form.

Brooking will be online with the Wendell Gilley Museum on Tuesday, May 16, as the museum’s People-Nature-Art presenter in an online-only program that begins at 7 p.m. There is no fee to attend, but registration is required.  

Most, but not all, of her work is inspired by Maine landscapes and she works exclusively in acrylics. “I use many layers of paint," she says, "often obliterating elements as the painting progresses, challenging myself always to distill and reduce the image to its exact essence and nothing more.”

She will discuss her process, inspiration, evolution as an artist, and connection to the Maine landscape in a conversation with museum director Sean Charette. A mid-career artist who lives and works in Westbrook, her paintings are in ollections in the United States, Canada, France and New Zealand. She has exhibited widely in Maine, New Hampshire, Connecticut, Ohio and New Mexico, and exhibits regularly at Casco Bay Artisans in Portland, Maine and Art 3 Gallery in Manchester, New Hampshire. 

This monthly series brings artists, writers, carvers, and creative types of all kinds to the Gilley to explore how nature and art interact in their work, and how their art impacts their own approach nature. Each session for 2023 is sponsored by our friends at Bar Harbor Bank & Trust.

Intro Carving Class

June 8, 2023 10:30 am - 12:00 pm

 

Learn carving with the Gilley’s master carver, Steve Valleau, who has been sharing this art with students at the museum for 38 years. This 1.5-hour class, suitable for beginners, comes with a kit that includes a bird blank and paints. Tools are available to borrow. Learn the basics of this classic American art form, and leave with something you create in our outdoor classroom.

Students must be at least 11 years old; those 12 and younger must be accompanied by an adult.

Cost: $35 for non-members or $28 for members (a 20% discount off the regular price). To become a member, visit our membership page HERE.

Class size limited to 4.

Intro Carving Class

June 8, 2023 1:30 - 3:00 pm

 

Learn carving with the Gilley’s master carver, Steve Valleau, who has been sharing this art with students at the museum for 38 years. This 1.5-hour class, suitable for beginners, comes with a kit that includes a bird blank and paints. Tools are available to borrow. Learn the basics of this classic American art form, and leave with something you create in our outdoor classroom.

Students must be at least 11 years old; those 12 and younger must be accompanied by an adult.

Cost: $35 for non-members or $28 for members (a 20% discount off the regular price). To become a member, visit our membership page HERE.

Class size limited to 4.

Misty Mountains Paint 'n' Sip

June 8, 2023 6:00 - 8:00 pm

Artist Erika Rosso leads a Misty Mountains Paint ‘n’ Sip on Thursday, June 8 from 6 to 8 p.m. Participants will create a painting inspired by Japanese artist Higashiyama Shinkichi that weaves together layers of mountains fading into the mist. Sip on wine, tea or seltzer as part of this adults-only evening class, which is suitable for artists of all levels who are at least 21 years old.

All materials and beverages will be provided. Each step will be demonstrated and explained, making for a fun and approachable class. The cost is $25 for museum members and $30 for non-members. Spaces are limited.

Convergence Ensemble performs American Voice in Poetry and Song

June 9, 2023 7:00 - 8:00 pm

The Wendell Gilley Museum and YWCA of MDI are proud to host American Voice in Poetry and Song III, an exploration of the expressive range of African American composers including Margaret Bonds and John. W. Work III, and poets including Langston Hughes, in a free concert at St. John Episcopal Church in Southwest Harbor. There will be a reception with the performers at the Gilley Museum afterward. This event is free and open to all, but registration is required.

Boston-based Convergence Ensemble will perform this music and poetry through a historic lens along with a discussion of societal issues surrounding social justice and representation in the world of classical music  The performers are singer Davron S. Monroe, poet and literary performer Regie Gibson, and pianist Rachel Gibson.

Convergence Ensemble is a nonprofit organization that presents unusual chamber music programming by supporting a diverse group of musicians. It was founded on the belief that the arts are interdisciplinary—that art, poetry, dance, literature, and music inform one another. The organization prides itself on working not only with musicians but also poets, writers, and literary performers.

Intro Carving Class

June 13, 2023 10:30 am - 12:00 pm

 

Learn carving with the Gilley’s master carver, Steve Valleau, who has been sharing this art with students at the museum for 38 years. This 1.5-hour class, suitable for beginners, comes with a kit that includes a bird blank and paints. Tools are available to borrow. Learn the basics of this classic American art form, and leave with something you create in our outdoor classroom.

Students must be at least 11 years old; those 12 and younger must be accompanied by an adult.

Cost: $35 for non-members or $28 for members (a 20% discount off the regular price). To become a member, visit our membership page HERE.

Class size limited to 4.

Intro Carving Class

June 13, 2023 1:30 - 3:00 pm

 

Learn carving with the Gilley’s master carver, Steve Valleau, who has been sharing this art with students at the museum for 38 years. This 1.5-hour class, suitable for beginners, comes with a kit that includes a bird blank and paints. Tools are available to borrow. Learn the basics of this classic American art form, and leave with something you create in our outdoor classroom.

Students must be at least 11 years old; those 12 and younger must be accompanied by an adult.

Cost: $35 for non-members or $28 for members (a 20% discount off the regular price). To become a member, visit our membership page HERE.

Class size limited to 4.

Intro Carving Class

June 15, 2023 10:30 am - 12:00 pm

 

Learn carving with the Gilley’s master carver, Steve Valleau, who has been sharing this art with students at the museum for 38 years. This 1.5-hour class, suitable for beginners, comes with a kit that includes a bird blank and paints. Tools are available to borrow. Learn the basics of this classic American art form, and leave with something you create in our outdoor classroom.

Students must be at least 11 years old; those 12 and younger must be accompanied by an adult.

Cost: $35 for non-members or $28 for members (a 20% discount off the regular price). To become a member, visit our membership page HERE.

Class size limited to 4.

Intro Carving Class

June 15, 2023 1:30 - 3:00 pm

 

Learn carving with the Gilley’s master carver, Steve Valleau, who has been sharing this art with students at the museum for 38 years. This 1.5-hour class, suitable for beginners, comes with a kit that includes a bird blank and paints. Tools are available to borrow. Learn the basics of this classic American art form, and leave with something you create in our outdoor classroom.

Students must be at least 11 years old; those 12 and younger must be accompanied by an adult.

Cost: $35 for non-members or $28 for members (a 20% discount off the regular price). To become a member, visit our membership page HERE.

Class size limited to 4.

Magical Paint 'n' Sip for kids and adults

June 16, 2023 10:30 - 12:30 am

Artist Erika Rosso leads a Magical Whales & Sailboat Paint ‘n’ Sip on Friday, June 16 beginning at 10:30 a.m. This workshop is suitable for painters age 7 and older. Students will paint wet on wet, work with salt, and learn to use masking fluid to create a watercolor of a humpback whale and sailboat, all while sipping on tea, coffee, seltzer or hot cocoa. Families and individuals welcome.

All materials and beverages will be provided. Each step will be demonstrated and explained, making for a fun and approachable class Spaces are limited.

People-Nature-Art with Carving Master Mark McNair

June 20, 2023 7:00 - 8:30 pm

A modern master of bird carving, Mark McNair, shares his art at the Gilley as part of the our free monthly series, People-Nature-Art. On June 20, he and his two carver sons will share stories, visuals and their inspirations in a presentation that begins at 7p.m. at the Gilley. This will be followed by a public reception with the artists. There is no charge to attend either event, but registration is required. The presentation will also be livestreamed; please indicate whether you will attend in person or virtually when you sign up.

The following day, June 21 from 1 to 3 p.m., they will give an in-person carving demonstration at the Gilley. No fee and no registraton required for this.

Mark McNair specializes in waterfowl and shorebird decoys, weathervanes, and related folk art. His work is held in numerous prominent decoy collections both public and private, including the Shelburne Museum in Vermont, the deWitt Cottage in Virginia Beach, and The Ward Museum of Wildfowl Art in Salisbury, Maryland.

Sons Ian and Colin are also active carvers: Ian in Exmore, Virginia, where he is a partner in High ‘N Dry, a company specializing in industrial grade chest waders;  and Colin in Boston where he also works for Copley Fine Art Auctions

These special events, like all the museum's People-Nature-Art offerings in 2023, are sponsored by our friends at Bar Harbor Bank & Trust.

Master Carvers Offer Demo & Conversation

June 21, 2023 1:00 - 3:00 pm

A modern master of bird carving, Mark McNair, and his son Ian McNair who is also a professional carver, will share insights and observations at the Gilley during a live demonstration of their art on Wednesday, June 21, from 1 to 3 p.m. This is a rare opportunity in Maine to connect with top U.S. carvers. No fee and no registration required.

Mark McNair specializes in waterfowl and shorebird decoys, weathervanes, and related folk art. His work is held in numerous prominent decoy collections both public and private, including the Shelburne Museum in Vermont, the deWitt Cottage in Virginia Beach, and The Ward Museum of Wildfowl Art in Salisbury, Maryland.

He has been carving and making decoys for more than half a century. After leaving his alma mater, Rhode Island School of Design, in the 1970s, he worked with antiques and carved wooden signs in his native Connecticut. During this time he was introduced to antique decoys by the Voorhees family and quickly took to the craft. He and his wife, Martha, now live and carve on the Eastern Shore of Virginia, between the Chesapeake Bay and Atlantic Ocean.

Of their three children, sons Ian and Colin are also active carvers. Ian carves in Exmore, Virginia and is a partner in High ‘N Dry, a company specializing in industrial grade chest waders. Colin also works for Copley Fine Art Auctions, in Boston.

This special event is part of the McNairs' visit to the Gilley as part of the free monthly People-Nature-Art series in 2023 sponsored by our friends at Bar Harbor Bank and Trust.

Plein Air Painting at Lopaus Point

June 23, 2023 9:00 am - 12:00 pm

Join watercolor artist Erika Rosso for a three-hour plein air painting workshop at Lopaus Point in Bernard on Friday, June 23, from 9am to noon. Erika has a unique style of teaching that encourages watercolor students to play and experiment with their art. Participants should bring their own plein air set-up, including an easel or small pop-up table and chair. Driving directions and a list of needed class materials will be sent when you sign up. Sets of painting materials will be available with advance request.

This is an in-person class and registration is required at www.wendellgilleymuseum.org/calendar. The fee is $35 for Museum members and $42 for non-members. Class size is limited.

Rosso’s work has been exhibited at Blum Gallery in Bar Harbor, Radiant Light Gallery in Portland and at the Cornerstone Gallery in Southwest Harbor. She lives on Mount Desert Island with her family of four, 12 chickens, a dog named Patten and one pet mouse. 

Intro Carving Class

June 27, 2023 10:30 am - 12:00 pm

 

Learn carving with the Gilley’s master carver, Steve Valleau, who has been sharing this art with students at the museum for 38 years. This 1.5-hour class, suitable for beginners, comes with a kit that includes a bird blank and paints. Tools are available to borrow. Learn the basics of this classic American art form, and leave with something you create in our outdoor classroom.

Students must be at least 11 years old; those 12 and younger must be accompanied by an adult.

Cost: $35 for non-members or $28 for members (a 20% discount off the regular price). To become a member, visit our membership page HERE.

Class size limited to 4.

Intro Carving Class

June 27, 2023 1:30 - 3:00 pm

 

Learn carving with the Gilley’s master carver, Steve Valleau, who has been sharing this art with students at the museum for 38 years. This 1.5-hour class, suitable for beginners, comes with a kit that includes a bird blank and paints. Tools are available to borrow. Learn the basics of this classic American art form, and leave with something you create in our outdoor classroom.

Students must be at least 11 years old; those 12 and younger must be accompanied by an adult.

Cost: $35 for non-members or $28 for members (a 20% discount off the regular price). To become a member, visit our membership page HERE.

Class size limited to 4.

Animal Portrait Workshop June 28

June 28, 2023 1:00 - 3:00 pm

Paint your favorite animal, or even a pet, in a watercolor painting class with local instructor Erika Rosso at the Gilley.

Experiment with the techniques of dry brushing and applying washes in select areas to bring your painting to life. Students should bring a photo to work from that is large enough to show detail and to inform their painting. Painters of all levels can attend, although some past painting or drawing experience may be helpful. Materials will be provided.

This is an in-person class and registration is required. Class size is limited.

Intro Carving Class

June 29, 2023 10:30 am - 12:00 pm

 

Learn carving with the Gilley’s master carver, Steve Valleau, who has been sharing this art with students at the museum for 38 years. This 1.5-hour class, suitable for beginners, comes with a kit that includes a bird blank and paints. Tools are available to borrow. Learn the basics of this classic American art form, and leave with something you create in our outdoor classroom.

Students must be at least 11 years old; those 12 and younger must be accompanied by an adult.

Cost: $35 for non-members or $28 for members (a 20% discount off the regular price). To become a member, visit our membership page HERE.

Class size limited to 4.

Intro Carving Class

June 29, 2023 1:30 - 3:00 pm

 

Learn carving with the Gilley’s master carver, Steve Valleau, who has been sharing this art with students at the museum for 38 years. This 1.5-hour class, suitable for beginners, comes with a kit that includes a bird blank and paints. Tools are available to borrow. Learn the basics of this classic American art form, and leave with something you create in our outdoor classroom.

Students must be at least 11 years old; those 12 and younger must be accompanied by an adult.

Cost: $35 for non-members or $28 for members (a 20% discount off the regular price). To become a member, visit our membership page HERE.

Class size limited to 4.

Mountain Landscape Paint 'n' Sip for kids & adults

July 5, 2023 1:00 - 3:00 pm

Come play with watercolors in this daytime paint ‘n’ sip and create your own nighttime mountain landscape. Local artist Erika Rosso will guide students through painting a beautiful landscape under the night sky with mountains and a tree silhouette. Learn how to do a watercolor wash, use salt for stars, and apply masking fluid. Suitable for participants of all skill levels age 7 and older.  Families and individuals welcome. Cocoa, tea and seltzer for sipping will be provided, along with all art materials. Registration is required and class size is limited.

All materials and beverages will be provided. Each step will be demonstrated and explained, making for a fun and approachable class.  

Intro Carving Class

July 6, 2023 10:30 am - 12:00 pm

 

Learn carving with the Gilley’s master carver, Steve Valleau, who has been sharing this art with students at the museum for 38 years. This 1.5-hour class, suitable for beginners, comes with a kit that includes a bird blank and paints. Tools are available to borrow. Learn the basics of this classic American art form, and leave with something you create in our outdoor classroom.

Students must be at least 11 years old; those 12 and younger must be accompanied by an adult.

Cost: $35 for non-members or $28 for members (a 20% discount off the regular price). To become a member, visit our membership page HERE.

Class size limited to 4.

Intro Carving Class

July 6, 2023 1:30 - 3:00 pm

 

Learn carving with the Gilley’s master carver, Steve Valleau, who has been sharing this art with students at the museum for 38 years. This 1.5-hour class, suitable for beginners, comes with a kit that includes a bird blank and paints. Tools are available to borrow. Learn the basics of this classic American art form, and leave with something you create in our outdoor classroom.

Students must be at least 11 years old; those 12 and younger must be accompanied by an adult.

Cost: $35 for non-members or $28 for members (a 20% discount off the regular price). To become a member, visit our membership page HERE.

Class size limited to 4.

Intro Carving Class

July 11, 2023 10:30 am - 12:00 pm

 

Learn carving with the Gilley’s master carver, Steve Valleau, who has been sharing this art with students at the museum for 38 years. This 1.5-hour class, suitable for beginners, comes with a kit that includes a bird blank and paints. Tools are available to borrow. Learn the basics of this classic American art form, and leave with something you create in our outdoor classroom.

Students must be at least 11 years old; those 12 and younger must be accompanied by an adult.

Cost: $35 for non-members or $28 for members (a 20% discount off the regular price). To become a member, visit our membership page HERE.

Class size limited to 4.

Intro Carving Class

July 11, 2023 1:30 - 3:00 pm

 

Learn carving with the Gilley’s master carver, Steve Valleau, who has been sharing this art with students at the museum for 38 years. This 1.5-hour class, suitable for beginners, comes with a kit that includes a bird blank and paints. Tools are available to borrow. Learn the basics of this classic American art form, and leave with something you create in our outdoor classroom.

Students must be at least 11 years old; those 12 and younger must be accompanied by an adult.

Cost: $35 for non-members or $28 for members (a 20% discount off the regular price). To become a member, visit our membership page HERE.

Class size limited to 4.

People-Nature-Art with writer & naturalist Susan Hand Shetterly

July 11, 2023 7:00 - 8:30 pm

Author and naturalist Susan Hand Shetterly will delve into what she calls “the landscape of home” on Tuesday, July 11 at at 7pm at the Gilley as the museum’s People-Nature-Art presenter for July. There will be a book signing immediately afterward. The presentation happens live at the museum and will be simultaneously livestreamed. As always, People-Nature-Art presentations are free and open to all, but registration is required.

People-Nature-Art is a monthly series that brings artists, writers, carvers, and creative types of all kinds to the Gilley to explore how nature and art interact in their work, and how their art impacts their own approach nature. Each session for 2023 is sponsored by our friends at Bar Harbor Bank & Trust.

In her newest book, “Notes on the Landscape of Home,” Shetterly explores in a series essays what it is to live in a Down East coastal town and to pay attention, over time, to what it offers of land, water, wildlife, and neighbors, taking her cue from Henry David Thoreau and Wendell Berry, who advocate for the virtues of staying in one place, believing that as we delve deeper into the landscape of home, we learn to read the world. 

A resident of Surry, Shetterly has lived on the coast of Maine for most of her life. She writes about wildlife and wild lands, has worked as a wild bird rehabilitator. She is an award-winning writer of books and articles for magazines and newspapers. Among the many things she has written about are the reestablishment of the bald eagle population in Maine, the reintroduction of the American turkey, the turkey vulture’s northward trend, shorebird migrations, the bluefin tuna and the humpback and right whales in the Gulf of Maine, counting alewives along a stream in her town in the spring, seaweed cultivation in a bay and the rebirth of a forest.

Wednesday Nature Wonders: Survival of the Fittest

July 12, 2023 10:30 - 11:30 am

This interactive program will use demonstrations, slides, children’s books and field guides, hand lenses and other activities to get a better understanding and appreciation of birds.

On Wednesdays, Museum Educator Cynthia Ocel leads hands-on Wednesday Wonder Nature Workshops including Awesome Owls, Fabulous Feathers, and Survival of the Fittest. They’re fun for kids and adults, and you’re bound to learn something you didn’t know before.

Wednesday Nature Wonders: Survival of the Fittest

July 12, 2023 12:30 - 1:30 pm

This interactive program will use demonstrations, slides, children’s books and field guides, hand lenses and other activities to get a better understanding and appreciation of birds.

On Wednesdays, Museum Educator Cynthia Ocel leads hands-on Wednesday Wonder Nature Workshops including Awesome Owls, Fabulous Feathers, and Survival of the Fittest. They’re fun for kids and adults, and you’re bound to learn something you didn’t know before.

Intro Carving Class

July 13, 2023 10:30 am - 12:00 pm

 

Learn carving with the Gilley’s master carver, Steve Valleau, who has been sharing this art with students at the museum for 38 years. This 1.5-hour class, suitable for beginners, comes with a kit that includes a bird blank and paints. Tools are available to borrow. Learn the basics of this classic American art form, and leave with something you create in our outdoor classroom.

Students must be at least 11 years old; those 12 and younger must be accompanied by an adult.

Cost: $35 for non-members or $28 for members (a 20% discount off the regular price). To become a member, visit our membership page HERE.

Class size limited to 4.

Loon Magic-Thursday Nature Drop-In Activity

July 13 - August 24, 2023

On Thursdays, Museum Educator Cynthia Ocel offers drop-in nature activities including – Origami Bird Making, Loon Magic, and Fill the Bill. No fee and no registration necessary. Just drop by between 10:30-11:30am and 12:30 to 1:30pm.

Intro Carving Class

July 13, 2023 1:30 - 3:00 pm

 

Learn carving with the Gilley’s master carver, Steve Valleau, who has been sharing this art with students at the museum for 38 years. This 1.5-hour class, suitable for beginners, comes with a kit that includes a bird blank and paints. Tools are available to borrow. Learn the basics of this classic American art form, and leave with something you create in our outdoor classroom.

Students must be at least 11 years old; those 12 and younger must be accompanied by an adult.

Cost: $35 for non-members or $28 for members (a 20% discount off the regular price). To become a member, visit our membership page HERE.

Class size limited to 4.

Daytime Discovery Walk with 'Nightwalk' author

July 14, 2023 9:00 - 11:00 am

Experience nature with all of your senses, guided by Maine Master Naturalist Karen Zimmerman, author of “Nightwalk: Using all your senses to explore the natural world.” You’ll take a walk through woods tothe beach, stopping along the way to savor and explore with each of your senses. Family friendly.

Karen is a Maine Master Naturalist and teaches classes and workshops about natural history and nature drawing.

Botanical Illustration: Watercolor Workshop

July 14, 2023 1:00 - 3:00 pm

Learn how to apply watercolor washes in small sections, and how and where to use dry brush technique in this class at the museum with local watercolor artist Erika Rosso.

This workshop is suitable for anyone with a little watercolor experience who is looking to dive into more detailed work. Bring your own picture of a flower or look through materials at the museum to find your subject. Rosso will guide you step by step through the process of painting your own botanical illustration. All materials are provided, although you are welcome to bring your own.

Registration is required and class size is limited.

Intro Carving Class

July 18, 2023 10:30 am - 12:00 pm

 

Learn carving with the Gilley’s master carver, Steve Valleau, who has been sharing this art with students at the museum for 38 years. This 1.5-hour class, suitable for beginners, comes with a kit that includes a bird blank and paints. Tools are available to borrow. Learn the basics of this classic American art form, and leave with something you create in our outdoor classroom.

Students must be at least 11 years old; those 12 and younger must be accompanied by an adult.

Cost: $35 for non-members or $28 for members (a 20% discount off the regular price). To become a member, visit our membership page HERE.

Class size limited to 4.

Intro Carving Class

July 18, 2023 1:30 - 3:00 pm

 

Learn carving with the Gilley’s master carver, Steve Valleau, who has been sharing this art with students at the museum for 38 years. This 1.5-hour class, suitable for beginners, comes with a kit that includes a bird blank and paints. Tools are available to borrow. Learn the basics of this classic American art form, and leave with something you create in our outdoor classroom.

Students must be at least 11 years old; those 12 and younger must be accompanied by an adult.

Cost: $35 for non-members or $28 for members (a 20% discount off the regular price). To become a member, visit our membership page HERE.

Class size limited to 4.

Wednesday Nature Wonders: Awesome Owls

July 19, 2023 10:30 - 11:30 am

On Wednesdays, Museum Educator Cynthia Ocel leads hands-on Wednesday Wonder Nature Workshops including Awesome Owls, Fabulous Feathers, and Survival of the Fittest. They’re fun for kids and adults, and you’re bound to learn something you didn’t know before.

Wednesday Nature Wonders: Awesome Owls

July 19, 2023 12:30 - 1:30 pm

On Wednesdays, Museum Educator Cynthia Ocel leads hands-on Wednesday Wonder Nature Workshops including Awesome Owls, Fabulous Feathers, and Survival of the Fittest. They’re fun for kids and adults, and you’re bound to learn something you didn’t know before.

Fill the Bill -Thursday Nature Drop-In Activity

July 20 - August 10, 2023

On Thursdays, Museum Educator Cynthia Ocel offers drop-in nature activities including – Origami Bird Making, Loon Magic, and Fill the Bill. No fee and no registration necessary. Just drop by between 10:30-11:30am and 12:30 to 1:30pm.

 

Intro Carving Class

July 20, 2023 10:30 am - 12:00 pm

 

Learn carving with the Gilley’s master carver, Steve Valleau, who has been sharing this art with students at the museum for 38 years. This 1.5-hour class, suitable for beginners, comes with a kit that includes a bird blank and paints. Tools are available to borrow. Learn the basics of this classic American art form, and leave with something you create in our outdoor classroom.

Students must be at least 11 years old; those 12 and younger must be accompanied by an adult.

Cost: $35 for non-members or $28 for members (a 20% discount off the regular price). To become a member, visit our membership page HERE.

Class size limited to 4.

Intro Carving Class

July 20, 2023 1:30 - 3:00 pm

 

Learn carving with the Gilley’s master carver, Steve Valleau, who has been sharing this art with students at the museum for 38 years. This 1.5-hour class, suitable for beginners, comes with a kit that includes a bird blank and paints. Tools are available to borrow. Learn the basics of this classic American art form, and leave with something you create in our outdoor classroom.

Students must be at least 11 years old; those 12 and younger must be accompanied by an adult.

Cost: $35 for non-members or $28 for members (a 20% discount off the regular price). To become a member, visit our membership page HERE.

Class size limited to 4.

Plein Air Painting at Cable Crossing

July 21, 2023 9:00 am - 12:00 pm

Fields, trees and the sea! Join watercolor artist Erika Rosso for a three-hour plein air painting workshop at Cable Crossing on Friday, July 21, from 9am to noon. Erika has a unique style of teaching and encourages watercolor students to play and experiment with their art and to let go of expectations so that they can explore boundaries within their paintings.

Participants will need an easel or small pop-up table and chair plus paints. Driving directions and a list of needed class materials will be sent when you sign up. Sets of painting materials will be available with advance request. Please email us at mel@wendellgilleymuseum.org.

This is an in-person class and registration is required. The fee is $35 for Museum members and $42 for non-members. Class size is limited.

Rosso’s work has been exhibited at Blum Gallery in Bar Harbor, Radiant Light Gallery in Portland and at the Cornerstone Gallery in Southwest Harbor. She lives on Mount Desert Island with her family of four, 12 chickens, a dog named Patten and one pet mouse. 

Avian Artistry-Public Reception July 21 4-6pm

July 21, 2023 4:00 - 6:00 pm

Join us at the Gilley for a celebration of Avian Artistry: Treasures from Maine Collections, a special show comprising more than 100 pieces from 50 donors.

The show’s guest curator, Carl Little, will be on hand to answer questions and offer insights.

He says: “In selecting the work for this exhibition, I sought to present a wide array of bird species and an equally broad range of formats: ceramics, paintings, sculpture, a wood relief, prints, carvings, fabric, photography—even a handmade book. You’ll find geese made from tamarack twigs by Cree artists, an eagle’s-eye view of Edo, Japan, by Ando Hiroshige (1797–1858), and a pair of Eurasian jays made from majolica.

In addition to a bounty of historical work, the exhibition showcases the work of a stellar sampling of contemporary Maine artists, from Ashley Bryan, David Driskell, Father Paul Plante, and Bernard Langlais to Carol Shutt, Susan Amons, Siri Beckman, and Amy Pollien.

  As you view the avian artistry in this show, please take time to study the many ways the artists represent feathers, talons, beaks, and bodies, from the real to the imagined. I guarantee you will be amazed.”

Intro Carving Class

July 25, 2023 10:30 am - 12:00 pm

 

Learn carving with the Gilley’s master carver, Steve Valleau, who has been sharing this art with students at the museum for 38 years. This 1.5-hour class, suitable for beginners, comes with a kit that includes a bird blank and paints. Tools are available to borrow. Learn the basics of this classic American art form, and leave with something you create in our outdoor classroom.

Students must be at least 11 years old; those 12 and younger must be accompanied by an adult.

Cost: $35 for non-members or $28 for members (a 20% discount off the regular price). To become a member, visit our membership page HERE.

Class size limited to 4.

Watercolor Workshop: Landscapes with Limits July 25

July 25, 2023 1:00 - 3:00 pm

If you feel overwhelmed by color and options when you start to think about painting, then this class is for you. Artist Erika Rosso will help students simplify their palette and offer them ways to refine their work by using limitations.  This is a great class for any level of painter, although having some experience in watercolor is helpful.  All materials will be provided, but artists are welcome to bring their own.

This is an in-person class at the Wendell Gilley Museum, and registration is required. The fee is $25 for Museum members and $35 for non-members. Class size is limited.

Rosso’s work has been exhibited at Blum Gallery in Bar Harbor, Radiant Light Gallery in Portland and at the Cornerstone Gallery in Southwest Harbor. She lives on Mount Desert Island with her family of four, 12 chickens, a dog named Patten and one pet mouse. 

Intro Carving Class

July 25, 2023 1:30 - 3:00 pm

 

Learn carving with the Gilley’s master carver, Steve Valleau, who has been sharing this art with students at the museum for 38 years. This 1.5-hour class, suitable for beginners, comes with a kit that includes a bird blank and paints. Tools are available to borrow. Learn the basics of this classic American art form, and leave with something you create in our outdoor classroom.

Students must be at least 11 years old; those 12 and younger must be accompanied by an adult.

Cost: $35 for non-members or $28 for members (a 20% discount off the regular price). To become a member, visit our membership page HERE.

Class size limited to 4.

Wednesday Nature Wonders: Fabulous Feathers

July 26, 2023 10:30 - 11:30 am

Everything you need to know about feathers! How they are built, what they do, and what different types of feathers birds have. We will finish by making feather prints. Fun for kids and adults!

 

Wednesday Nature Wonders: Fabulous Feathers

July 26, 2023 12:30 - 1:30 pm

Everything you need to know about feathers! How they are built, what they do, and what different types of feathers birds have. We will finish by making feather prints. Fun for kids and adults!

 

Paper Origami Birds-Thursday Drop-In Nature Activity

July 27 - August 17, 2023

On Thursdays, Museum Educator Cynthia Ocel offers drop-in nature activities including – Origami Bird Making, Loon Magic, and Fill the Bill. No fee and no registration necessary. Just drop by between 10:30-11:30am and 12:30 to 1:30pm.

Intro Carving Class

July 27, 2023 10:30 am - 12:00 pm

 

Learn carving with the Gilley’s master carver, Steve Valleau, who has been sharing this art with students at the museum for 38 years. This 1.5-hour class, suitable for beginners, comes with a kit that includes a bird blank and paints. Tools are available to borrow. Learn the basics of this classic American art form, and leave with something you create in our outdoor classroom.

Students must be at least 11 years old; those 12 and younger must be accompanied by an adult.

Cost: $35 for non-members or $28 for members (a 20% discount off the regular price). To become a member, visit our membership page HERE.

Class size limited to 4.

Intro Carving Class

July 27, 2023 1:30 - 3:00 pm

 

Learn carving with the Gilley’s master carver, Steve Valleau, who has been sharing this art with students at the museum for 38 years. This 1.5-hour class, suitable for beginners, comes with a kit that includes a bird blank and paints. Tools are available to borrow. Learn the basics of this classic American art form, and leave with something you create in our outdoor classroom.

Students must be at least 11 years old; those 12 and younger must be accompanied by an adult.

Cost: $35 for non-members or $28 for members (a 20% discount off the regular price). To become a member, visit our membership page HERE.

Class size limited to 4.

Intro Carving Class

August 1, 2023 10:30 am - 12:00 pm

 

Learn carving with the Gilley’s master carver, Steve Valleau, who has been sharing this art with students at the museum for 38 years. This 1.5-hour class, suitable for beginners, comes with a kit that includes a bird blank and paints. Tools are available to borrow. Learn the basics of this classic American art form, and leave with something you create in our outdoor classroom.

Students must be at least 11 years old; those 12 and younger must be accompanied by an adult.

Cost: $35 for non-members or $28 for members (a 20% discount off the regular price). To become a member, visit our membership page HERE.

Class size limited to 4.

Intro Carving Class

August 1, 2023 1:30 - 3:00 pm

 

Learn carving with the Gilley’s master carver, Steve Valleau, who has been sharing this art with students at the museum for 38 years. This 1.5-hour class, suitable for beginners, comes with a kit that includes a bird blank and paints. Tools are available to borrow. Learn the basics of this classic American art form, and leave with something you create in our outdoor classroom.

Students must be at least 11 years old; those 12 and younger must be accompanied by an adult.

Cost: $35 for non-members or $28 for members (a 20% discount off the regular price). To become a member, visit our membership page HERE.

Class size limited to 4.

Wednesday Nature Wonders: Survival of the Fittest

August 2, 2023 10:30 - 11:30 am

This interactive program will use demonstrations, slides, children’s books and field guides, hand lenses and other activities to get a better understanding and appreciation of birds.

On Wednesdays, Museum Educator Cynthia Ocel leads hands-on Wednesday Wonder Nature Workshops including Awesome Owls, Fabulous Feathers, and Survival of the Fittest. They’re fun for kids and adults, and you’re bound to learn something you didn’t know before.

Intro Carving Class

August 2, 2023 10:30 am - 12:00 pm

 

Learn carving with the Gilley’s master carver, Steve Valleau, who has been sharing this art with students at the museum for 38 years. This 1.5-hour class, suitable for beginners, comes with a kit that includes a bird blank and paints. Tools are available to borrow. Learn the basics of this classic American art form, and leave with something you create in our outdoor classroom.

Students must be at least 11 years old; those 12 and younger must be accompanied by an adult.

Cost: $35 for non-members or $28 for members (a 20% discount off the regular price). To become a member, visit our membership page HERE.

Class size limited to 4.

Wednesday Nature Wonders: Survival of the Fittest

August 2, 2023 12:30 - 1:30 pm

This interactive program will use demonstrations, slides, children’s books and field guides, hand lenses and other activities to get a better understanding and appreciation of birds.

On Wednesdays, Museum Educator Cynthia Ocel leads hands-on Wednesday Wonder Nature Workshops including Awesome Owls, Fabulous Feathers, and Survival of the Fittest. They’re fun for kids and adults, and you’re bound to learn something you didn’t know before.

Intro Carving Class

August 2, 2023 1:30 - 3:00 pm

 

Learn carving with the Gilley’s master carver, Steve Valleau, who has been sharing this art with students at the museum for 38 years. This 1.5-hour class, suitable for beginners, comes with a kit that includes a bird blank and paints. Tools are available to borrow. Learn the basics of this classic American art form, and leave with something you create in our outdoor classroom.

Students must be at least 11 years old; those 12 and younger must be accompanied by an adult.

Cost: $35 for non-members or $28 for members (a 20% discount off the regular price). To become a member, visit our membership page HERE.

Class size limited to 4.

Puffins: Daytime Paint 'n' Sip for Kids & Adults

August 4, 2023 10:30 am - 12:30 pm

Come get your feet wet and step into the magical world of watercolor with local artist Erika Rosso.  Erika will be guiding students to create a watercolor portrait of a colorful Maine puffin.  Class is suitable for all levels and ages, families and individuals welcome. 

All materials supplied as well as tea and non alcoholic beverages.

Intro Carving Class

August 8, 2023 10:30 am - 12:00 pm

 

Learn carving with the Gilley’s master carver, Steve Valleau, who has been sharing this art with students at the museum for 38 years. This 1.5-hour class, suitable for beginners, comes with a kit that includes a bird blank and paints. Tools are available to borrow. Learn the basics of this classic American art form, and leave with something you create in our outdoor classroom.

Students must be at least 11 years old; those 12 and younger must be accompanied by an adult.

Cost: $35 for non-members or $28 for members (a 20% discount off the regular price). To become a member, visit our membership page HERE.

Class size limited to 4.

Intro Carving Class

August 8, 2023 1:30 - 3:00 pm

 

Learn carving with the Gilley’s master carver, Steve Valleau, who has been sharing this art with students at the museum for 38 years. This 1.5-hour class, suitable for beginners, comes with a kit that includes a bird blank and paints. Tools are available to borrow. Learn the basics of this classic American art form, and leave with something you create in our outdoor classroom.

Students must be at least 11 years old; those 12 and younger must be accompanied by an adult.

Cost: $35 for non-members or $28 for members (a 20% discount off the regular price). To become a member, visit our membership page HERE.

Class size limited to 4.

People-Nature-Art: Bestselling Author Jennifer Ackerman Aug. 8

August 8, 2023 5:30 - 8:30 pm

Award-winning science writer and New York Times bestselling author Jennifer Ackerman visits the Wendell Gilley Museum on Tuesday, August 8, as the museum’s People-Nature-Art presenter for August at 7pm. There will be a book signing and reception beforehand at the museum beginning at 5:30pm. The presentation happens live and will be simultaneously livestreamed. As always, People-Nature-Art presentations are free and open to all, but registration is required.

Ackerman’s new book, “What an Owl Knows: The New Science of the World’s Most Enigmatic Birds,” was released June 13. She is also the author of “The Bird Way: A New Look at How Birds Talk, Work, Play, Parent, and Think,” “The Genius of Birds,” “Birds by the Shore,” and “Chance in the House of Fate: A Natural History of Heredity.”

People-Nature-Art is a monthly series that brings artists, writers, carvers, and creative types of all kinds to the Gilley to explore how nature and art interact in their work, and how their art impacts their own approach nature. Each session for 2023 is sponsored by our friends at Bar Harbor Bank & Trust.

Colorful Peacocks: Acrylic Painting Class

August 9, 2023 10:30 am - 12:30 pm

Experiment with acrylic paint in the style of Starla Michelle to create a fun and playful portrait of a Peacock.  Each participant will receive a canvas to paint on and take home.  All painting materials will be provided and class will be held outside, weather permitted.  Class is suitable for ages 5 and up. Class size is limited and will be taught by Erika Rosso.

Wednesday Nature Wonders: Awesome Owls

August 9, 2023 10:30 - 11:30 am

On Wednesdays, Museum Educator Cynthia Ocel leads hands-on Wednesday Wonder Nature Workshops including Awesome Owls, Fabulous Feathers, and Survival of the Fittest. They’re fun for kids and adults, and you’re bound to learn something you didn’t know before.

Intro Carving Class

August 9, 2023 10:30 am - 12:00 pm

 

Learn carving with the Gilley’s master carver, Steve Valleau, who has been sharing this art with students at the museum for 38 years. This 1.5-hour class, suitable for beginners, comes with a kit that includes a bird blank and paints. Tools are available to borrow. Learn the basics of this classic American art form, and leave with something you create in our outdoor classroom.

Students must be at least 11 years old; those 12 and younger must be accompanied by an adult.

Cost: $35 for non-members or $28 for members (a 20% discount off the regular price). To become a member, visit our membership page HERE.

Class size limited to 4.

Wednesday Nature Wonders: Awesome Owls

August 9, 2023 12:30 - 1:30 pm

On Wednesdays, Museum Educator Cynthia Ocel leads hands-on Wednesday Wonder Nature Workshops including Awesome Owls, Fabulous Feathers, and Survival of the Fittest. They’re fun for kids and adults, and you’re bound to learn something you didn’t know before.

Intro Carving Class

August 9, 2023 1:30 - 3:00 pm

 

Learn carving with the Gilley’s master carver, Steve Valleau, who has been sharing this art with students at the museum for 38 years. This 1.5-hour class, suitable for beginners, comes with a kit that includes a bird blank and paints. Tools are available to borrow. Learn the basics of this classic American art form, and leave with something you create in our outdoor classroom.

Students must be at least 11 years old; those 12 and younger must be accompanied by an adult.

Cost: $35 for non-members or $28 for members (a 20% discount off the regular price). To become a member, visit our membership page HERE.

Class size limited to 4.

Japanese Style Watercolor Paint 'n' Sip

August 11, 2023 6:00 - 8:00 pm

Paint a Japanese-style watercolor with local watercolor artist Erika Rosso.  Erika will walk you through your watercolor painting, offering demos throughout class.  Each step will be demonstrated. Class is suitable for all levels of painter, but is restricted to adults only. All materials are supplied, as well as wine and spritzers.

Intro Carving Class

August 15, 2023 10:35 am - 12:00 pm

 

Learn carving with the Gilley’s master carver, Steve Valleau, who has been sharing this art with students at the museum for 38 years. This 1.5-hour class, suitable for beginners, comes with a kit that includes a bird blank and paints. Tools are available to borrow. Learn the basics of this classic American art form, and leave with something you create in our outdoor classroom.

Students must be at least 11 years old; those 12 and younger must be accompanied by an adult.

Cost: $35 for non-members or $28 for members (a 20% discount off the regular price). To become a member, visit our membership page HERE.

Class size limited to 4.

Intro Carving Class

August 15, 2023 1:30 - 3:00 pm

 

Learn carving with the Gilley’s master carver, Steve Valleau, who has been sharing this art with students at the museum for 38 years. This 1.5-hour class, suitable for beginners, comes with a kit that includes a bird blank and paints. Tools are available to borrow. Learn the basics of this classic American art form, and leave with something you create in our outdoor classroom.

Students must be at least 11 years old; those 12 and younger must be accompanied by an adult.

Cost: $35 for non-members or $28 for members (a 20% discount off the regular price). To become a member, visit our membership page HERE.

Class size limited to 4.

Wednesday Nature Wonders: Fabulous Feathers

August 16, 2023 10:30 - 11:30 am

Everything you need to know about feathers! How they are built, what they do, and what different types of feathers birds have. We will finish by making feather prints. Fun for kids and adults!

 

Wednesday Nature Wonders: Fabulous Feathers

August 16, 2023 12:30 - 1:30 pm

Everything you need to know about feathers! How they are built, what they do, and what different types of feathers birds have. We will finish by making feather prints. Fun for kids and adults!

 

Carol Shutt: Art Demo & Chat

August 18, 2023 11:00 am - 1:00 pm

Carol Shutt will give a demonstration of her painting process outside under the orange wing at the Wendell Gilley Museum on Friday, Aug. 18, from 11am to 1pm. She looks forward to answering questions and having conversations as she works. 

Don't miss this opportunity to interact with this artist who is a painter, mixed-media artist and writer living and working on Mount Desert Island. Her art practice is tied to her love of the natural world and has been influenced by my many years of observations and experiences in Maine. Her art and ideas have grown through travel and art retreats in other countries. She also draws inspiration from the children she taught art to for almost 30 years in a K-8 classroom where creativity abounds. From her young students she has learned that art is exploration and discovery, and the best part of being an artist is the process itself. Now retired, she has a full-time studio practice that includes painting, drawing, collage, altering books and creative writing using the Exquisite Corpse process. She is an artist of ideas and is always most excited when exploring new concepts and materials.

Free and open to all.

 

Intro Carving Class

August 22, 2023 10:30 am - 12:00 pm

 

Learn carving with the Gilley’s master carver, Steve Valleau, who has been sharing this art with students at the museum for 38 years. This 1.5-hour class, suitable for beginners, comes with a kit that includes a bird blank and paints. Tools are available to borrow. Learn the basics of this classic American art form, and leave with something you create in our outdoor classroom.

Students must be at least 11 years old; those 12 and younger must be accompanied by an adult.

Cost: $35 for non-members or $28 for members (a 20% discount off the regular price). To become a member, visit our membership page HERE.

Class size limited to 4.

Wednesday Nature Wonders: Survival of the Fittest

August 23, 2023 10:30 - 11:30 am

This interactive program will use demonstrations, slides, children’s books and field guides, hand lenses and other activities to get a better understanding and appreciation of birds.

On Wednesdays, Museum Educator Cynthia Ocel leads hands-on Wednesday Wonder Nature Workshops including Awesome Owls, Fabulous Feathers, and Survival of the Fittest. They’re fun for kids and adults, and you’re bound to learn something you didn’t know before.

Wednesday Nature Wonders: Survival of the Fittest

August 23, 2023 12:30 - 1:30 pm

This interactive program will use demonstrations, slides, children’s books and field guides, hand lenses and other activities to get a better understanding and appreciation of birds.

On Wednesdays, Museum Educator Cynthia Ocel leads hands-on Wednesday Wonder Nature Workshops including Awesome Owls, Fabulous Feathers, and Survival of the Fittest. They’re fun for kids and adults, and you’re bound to learn something you didn’t know before.

Intro Carving Class

August 24, 2023 10:30 am - 12:00 pm

 

Learn carving with the Gilley’s master carver, Steve Valleau, who has been sharing this art with students at the museum for 38 years. This 1.5-hour class, suitable for beginners, comes with a kit that includes a bird blank and paints. Tools are available to borrow. Learn the basics of this classic American art form, and leave with something you create in our outdoor classroom.

Students must be at least 11 years old; those 12 and younger must be accompanied by an adult.

Cost: $35 for non-members or $28 for members (a 20% discount off the regular price). To become a member, visit our membership page HERE.

Class size limited to 4.

Intro Carving Class

August 24, 2023 1:30 - 3:00 pm

 

Learn carving with the Gilley’s master carver, Steve Valleau, who has been sharing this art with students at the museum for 38 years. This 1.5-hour class, suitable for beginners, comes with a kit that includes a bird blank and paints. Tools are available to borrow. Learn the basics of this classic American art form, and leave with something you create in our outdoor classroom.

Students must be at least 11 years old; those 12 and younger must be accompanied by an adult.

Cost: $35 for non-members or $28 for members (a 20% discount off the regular price). To become a member, visit our membership page HERE.

Class size limited to 4.

Plein Air Painting Class: Granite, Boats & Water at Seal Cove Docks

August 25, 2023 9:00 am - 12:00 pm

CANCELED FOR WEATHER

NEXT PLEIN AIR CLASS IS SEPT 6 at SEAWALL

Come paint in the fresh air on the quiet side of the island.  Local artist Erika Rosso will be teaching a three- hour plein air workshop near the shore at Seal Cove. Erika's teaching style encourages a playful approach to watercolor painting that all levels will find enjoyable. Bring your own painting materials or request a set from the museum. You may also want to bring a chair and easel, water, sunhat, and sunscreen.

A Concert for the Gilley

August 26, 2023 2:00 - 3:30 pm

Celebrate "People, Nature and Art" – the guiding words of the Wendell Gilley Museum – with the noted sibling musicians Thomas and Sarah Cooper in an eclectic concert at St. John’s Episcopal Church in Southwest Harbor on Saturday, Aug. 26 beginning at 2 p.m. The concert is free and open to all, but registration is requested.  A public reception will follow the concert at the Wendell Gilley Museum. 

They will perform works in this one-hour concert including "On Mighty Wings the Eagle Proudly Soars Aloft" from Franz Joseph Haydn's "The Creation," George Gershwin's "Summertime," violin sonatas by Debussy and J.S. Bach, and more.

Thomas Cooper, a violinist, is a three-time winner of New England Conservatory’s Entrepreneurial Musicianship award and has been hailed as a "stop in your tracks stunner" as a violinist whose playing is "delightfully spirited [with a] rich tone.” He is co-founder of Fermata Chamber Soloists, and as an orchestral player he is concertmaster of the Du Bois Orchestra of Harvard, a group dedicated to performing works by historically marginalized composers. Additionally, he performs with the Boston Philharmonic, Portland’s Palaver Strings, and the Cape Cod Chamber Orchestra. As a soloist, he ha­­s appeared with American orchestras including the Colorado College Festival Orchestra, the Coeur D'Alene Symphony Orchestra, the Credo Baroque Orchestra, the Du Bois Orchestra of Harvard, and the Middlesex Chamber Orchestra among others. 

His sister, soprano Sarah Joyce Cooper, recently made her debut at Carnegie Hall and will perform with the Boston Lyric Opera the day before her performance for the Wendell Gilley Museum. Last month she performed the role of Adina in Donizetti’s comedy, L’elisir d’amore, appearing alongside Metropolitan Opera basso Valerian Ruminski, baritone Brian Keith Johnson, and tenor Michael Anderson.

She has been hailed for her “meltingly beautiful” soprano by Opera News. Based in Boston, she performs throughout the United States including with Syracuse Opera as Clorinda in Rossini’s La Cenerentola and with Tri-Cities Opera as Sally in the new opera Stone Soup, by Joe Illick. She appeared with Opera Ithaca as Anna in a film version of Verdi’s Nabucco and as the Little Zegner daughter in Missy Mazzoli’s Proving Up, and performed with the Cape Cod Chamber Orchestra in a performance of Barber’s Knoxville: Summer of 1915.

Intro Carving Class

August 29, 2023 10:30 am - 12:00 pm

 

Learn carving with the Gilley’s master carver, Steve Valleau, who has been sharing this art with students at the museum for 38 years. This 1.5-hour class, suitable for beginners, comes with a kit that includes a bird blank and paints. Tools are available to borrow. Learn the basics of this classic American art form, and leave with something you create in our outdoor classroom.

Students must be at least 11 years old; those 12 and younger must be accompanied by an adult.

Cost: $35 for non-members or $28 for members (a 20% discount off the regular price). To become a member, visit our membership page HERE.

Class size limited to 4.

Intro Carving Class

August 29, 2023 1:30 - 3:00 pm

 

Learn carving with the Gilley’s master carver, Steve Valleau, who has been sharing this art with students at the museum for 38 years. This 1.5-hour class, suitable for beginners, comes with a kit that includes a bird blank and paints. Tools are available to borrow. Learn the basics of this classic American art form, and leave with something you create in our outdoor classroom.

Students must be at least 11 years old; those 12 and younger must be accompanied by an adult.

Cost: $35 for non-members or $28 for members (a 20% discount off the regular price). To become a member, visit our membership page HERE.

Class size limited to 4.

Intro Carving Class

August 31, 2023 10:30 am - 12:00 pm

 

Learn carving with the Gilley’s master carver, Steve Valleau, who has been sharing this art with students at the museum for 38 years. This 1.5-hour class, suitable for beginners, comes with a kit that includes a bird blank and paints. Tools are available to borrow. Learn the basics of this classic American art form, and leave with something you create in our outdoor classroom.

Students must be at least 11 years old; those 12 and younger must be accompanied by an adult.

Cost: $35 for non-members or $28 for members (a 20% discount off the regular price). To become a member, visit our membership page HERE.

Class size limited to 4.

Intro Carving Class

August 31, 2023 1:30 - 3:00 pm

 

Learn carving with the Gilley’s master carver, Steve Valleau, who has been sharing this art with students at the museum for 38 years. This 1.5-hour class, suitable for beginners, comes with a kit that includes a bird blank and paints. Tools are available to borrow. Learn the basics of this classic American art form, and leave with something you create in our outdoor classroom.

Students must be at least 11 years old; those 12 and younger must be accompanied by an adult.

Cost: $35 for non-members or $28 for members (a 20% discount off the regular price). To become a member, visit our membership page HERE.

Class size limited to 4.

Just Ducky Paint 'n' Sip for Adults

September 1, 2023 4:30 - 6:30 pm

Create your own watercolor painting of ducks, with a bright and experimental background in this fun Paint 'n' Sip with local artist Erika Rosso. Students will have the opportunity to learn how to use masking fluid, apply a wash, and use salt to create texture. Erika will demonstrate each step for students. The class is suitable for all levels of painters, ages 21 and older.

Wine and non-alcoholic beverages will be served.

 

Plein Air Painting at Seawall

September 6, 2023 9:00 am - 12:00 pm

Paint by the sea with local artist Erika Rosso. Students will learn how to paint rocks, water and trees to create their own watercolor landscape. Students must be able to walk a short distance over rocks and carry their supplies and a chair/towel for sitting on.  Materials available from the upon request. 

Huck's Ducks Launch!

September 8, 2023 5:00 - 7:00 pm

Join us at the Museum to meet multidisciplinary artist Richard Huck on Friday, Sept. 8 from 5 to 7pm. Rick is the creator of Huck’s Ducks, a battalion of duck-defending battleships now floating serenely in the Museum’s decoy pool.

Hors d’ oeuvres and beer and wine will be served. There is not charge to attend but registration is requested.

Elephant Wall Hook Workshop

September 9, 2023 10:30 am - 12:30 pm

Make a wall hook from clay inspired by the Gilley’s exhibit “Nature’s Masterpiece: Elephant Photographs of Peter Beard,” which will in the museum’s special exhibits gallery until Nov. 4. Kathie Pratt will lead you through the process, and you’ll have something to take home with you at the end of the workshop. All materials supplied.

Drawing with Toned Paper

September 13, 2023 1:00 - 3:00 pm

In this workshop we will look at the world through a filter that focuses on textures, shapes, highlights and shadows over a sometimes overwhelming range of color. It is a simpler way of looking at your subject, and captures it quickly. A selection of warm and cool toned papers will be provided, as well as pencils. There will be natural objects to choose to draw, or bring your own. Lettering, and combining drawing and text will be discussed.

No experience necessary just an interest in nature and being creative.

Taught by naturalist and artist Karen Zimmerman. All materials supplied.

People-Nature-Art with Printmaker Kathleen Walsh Buchanan Sept. 19

September 19, 2023 5:30 - 8:30 pm

Printmaker and biologist Kathleen Walsh Buchanan will be at the Gilley on Tuesday, Sept. 19, to share her collagraphic printmaking and its inspiration in the natural world. There will be a public reception at 5:30pm, followed by Buchanan's presentation at 7pm.  Both events are free, but registration is required.

“At first glance, biology and printmaking seem to have little common ground, but much of my training as a scientist has served me extremely well as an artist,” she says. “Both disciplines require skill at observing the environment, at not only looking but seeing what is going on around you. I look at biology and art as two dialects in the same language, different ways to communicate what you have learned about the nature of things, about the truth of your experience.”

A collagraph is a hand-made print generated off a printing plate that is a collage of various material. For her pieces, Buchanan starts with a sturdy backing board of plain masonite panel, then glues down shapes of Bristol paper on this board that delineate the major elements of her design. Then she paints over that paper with acrylic gel mediums to add texture and detail to the design, and to prevent the Bristol paper from being saturated with ink when it’s time to print.

Before becoming a full-time printmaker in 1999, she was educated and employed as a biologist. As an undergraduate at Tufts University, she majored in biology while nurturing her creative skills with as many studio art courses as she could fit into her schedule. After getting a master’s degree in wildlife biology at the University of Alaska she renewed her efforts at studio art with a focus on printmaking and now lives – and makes art – in Rockland, Maine.

“My connection to the natural world, my role as a mother, and my own sense of self all find expression in my images,” she says. “I enjoy looking at landscapes and their inhabitants not only as appealing composition subjects, but also as metaphors for our human experience.  Collagraph printing, with all its intricacy and subtlety, is a fascinating medium to use in the communication of these ideas.”

People-Nature-Art is a monthly series that brings artists, writers, carvers, and creative types of all kinds to the Gilley to explore how nature and art interact in their work, and how their art impacts their own approach nature. Each session for 2023 is sponsored by our friends at Bar Harbor Bank & Trust.

Hawks on the Move Sept. 20

September 20, 2023 9:00 am - 12:00 pm

Learn how to identify hawks in flight, plus when, where, and how best to see them on MDI and beyond with Seth Benz, director of bird ecology at Schoodic Institute and former professional hawk watcher, in this program at the Wendell Gilley Museum on Wednesday, Sept. 20 from 9am to noon. Slides, handouts, discussion and topical resources are all part of this experience. Bring your curiosity and your questions!

Stump to Duck Carving Class

September 22, 2023 10:30 am - 3:00 pm

Join master carver Steve Valleau for this unique three-class workshop to turn a stump into carved ducks. The class runs from 10am to 3pm on Friday, Sept. 22, Saturday, Sept. 23,  and Friday, Sept. 29. Class size is limited and registration is required.

Paint 'n' Sip for Everyone - Paint a Tree with Stipplism

September 23, 2023 10:30 - 12:30 am

Join artist Erika Rosso in a watercolor class for all ages. Experiment with the use of stipplism to create a whimsical tree in a snowy landscape.  Snacks and non-alcoholic beverages will be provided.

This fun class is suitable for all ages.

Demo & Paint Along with Artist Mary Brooking

September 30, 2023 1:00 - 3:00 pm

Join painter Mary Brooking – the Gilley’s May 2023 People-Nature-Art speaker – for this special event at the Gilley. Using acrylics, Mary will demonstrate techniques for a creating sky-scape with birds flying. Participants will observe and paint along with Mary. All materials will be provided for this “quasi-class.” Participant numbers are limited. 

Mary enjoys exploring the way colors, textures and compositional form interact with the human senses on a primitive level, testing the balance of reality and abstraction in the context of the Maine landscape. The viewer is invited to enter these spaces mentally and emotionally. Mary's work has been characterized as “expressionist landscape.“ Acrylic paint as a medium forces immediacy and speed in execution, which fits Mary's style and temperament. For Mary, there is no right or wrong approach, no “getting it” or “not getting it” about subject matter - there are only layers of thought, which may sometimes be beautiful. Mary received her B.A. in Fine Art from Hiram College in 1978, cum laude. A 20-year career in graphic design and illustration preceded her present incarnation as a fine artist in Maine.

Paint 'n' Sip for Adults - Acadia Landscape

October 7, 2023 4:00 - 6:00 pm

Relax and unwind with watercolors and a glass of wine or sparkling water.  Artist Erika Rosso will help students paint a landscape inspired by Acadia, demonstrating each step for students.  Class is suitable for all levels of painters, ages 21 and older.  

October People-Nature-Art explores The Birds of Shakespeare

October 10, 2023 5:30 - 8:30 pm

Enjoy a birding expedition through William Shakespeare’s plays and poetry with artist Missy Dunaway whose independent art project “The Birds of Shakespeare”  will catalog every bird mentioned in Shakespeare's plays and poems. Dunaway will be at the Gilley on Tuesday, Oct. 10 for a 5:30pm reception and a 7pm presentation as the museum’s October People-Nature-Art presenter.

Each month, Dunaway releases a painting of one bird with an accompanying essay that analyzes how the species features in Shakespeare’s world.

People-Nature-Art is a monthly series that brings artists, writers, carvers, and creative types of all kinds to the Gilley to explore how nature and art interact in their work, and how their art impacts their own approach to nature. Each session for 2023 is sponsored by our friends at Bar Harbor Bank & Trust.

Illustrating Feathers with Missy Dunaway

October 11, 2023 10:30 am - 12:30 pm

Join Missy Dunaway, the Gilley’s October People-Nature-Art presenter, for this special painting workshop to create realistic feathers. According to the Migratory Bird Treaty Act of 1918, it is illegal to collect feathers from birds that are migratory and native to the United States territories. Let’s collect feathers lawfully—as paintings! In this lesson, Dunaway will guide you through an approachable step-by-step process to create a realistic painting of feathers using acrylic-ink on paper. Appropriate for all skill levels, including children, beginners, and experienced artists. Materials provided. Registration required.

Water Birds on the Move

October 13, 2023 9:00 am - 12:00 pm

A great variety of birds, during autumn, head south to escape dwindling food resources and the onslaught of winter. The majority of migrants pass over Mount Desert Island at night, unseen. But we can witness the passage of day-flying water birds — cormorants, common eiders and other sea ducks, loons, northern gannets, gulls, and more — by looking for them from shoreline vantage points. Join Seth Benz, director of bird ecology at Schoodic Institute, for an introductory workshop and field experience. We'll begin indoors at the Gilley Museum for a water bird migration primer, then carpool to the Seawall Picnic Area to see water birds on the move. Dress for the weather and bring binoculars, your curiosity and your questions!

40 Years of the Maine Loon Project

October 13, 2023 7:00 - 8:30 pm

Forty years ago, the Maine Loon Project was launched to help protect Maine’s iconic loons. Run by Maine Audubon, the project works with residents and partners statewide to promote healthy lakes, clean water, and quality habitat for loons and to understand trends in their population over time.

Join us at the Gilley to discover more about the history, status and future of this project – and how you can help!

Presenters will be Billy Helprin of Somes-Meynell Wildlife Sanctuary, and Tracy Hart and David Lamon of Maine Audubon.

No fee, but registration required.

Acrylic Elephant Paint 'n' Sip for Kids & Adults

October 14, 2023 10:30 am - 12:30 pm

Paint a colorful elephant in acrylics on canvas, inspired by the museum's exhibit of elephant photos by Peter Beard and animal sculptures by Dan Falt.

Artist Erika Rosso will walk students through creating their own acrylic painting modeled after one of her watercolors. All materials provided as well as tea, seltzer and juice for this family friendly Paint 'n' Sip suitable for all experience levels, and those age 5 and older.

Students will each receive their own canvas to create a painting of an elephant adorned with color and jewels. Paintings will be created using acrylics so wear clothing that you don't mind getting messy!   

Getting Started with Relief Printing

October 18, 2023 9:30 am - 12:00 pm

Relief prints are one of the most versatile and low-tech methods for creating repeating or multiple images, and you can learn the basics in just a few hours. Award-winning printmaker Sherrie York will guide you through the process of designing, carving, and printing a single-color image using the most basic tools and materials. Where you go from there is up to you! All materials provided. 

Pattern and Texture with Relief Prints

October 19, 2023 9:30 am - 3:00 pm

It’s printmaking playtime with award-winning Maine printmaker Sherrie York! A single-color block print is fun, but what happens if we play with repeating patterns, overlapping images, and color? Let’s find out! We will take time in the morning to design and carve two different relief printing blocks, and in the afternoon we will experiment with combining them to create something new. Some experience with carving relief blocks is helpful, but not necessary. Bring some ideas for small, square formats. All materials provided. There will be a break for lunch (not provided).

Sculpt & Sip: Elephant Hook

October 20, 2023 6:00 - 8:30 pm

Make a wall hook from clay inspired by the Gilley’s exhibit “Nature’s Masterpiece: Elephant Photographs of Peter Beard,” which will be in the museum’s special exhibits gallery until Nov. 4. Kathie Pratt will lead you through the process, including baking it in the over, and you’ll have something to take home with you at the end of the workshop. All materials supplied.

This is an evening class for adults only; wine will be provided along with non-alcoholic beverages.

Fall Carving Workshop-Barn Swallow In Person

October 21 - December 16, 2023

Carve a barn swallow in this 8-week class under the guidance of the Gilley's master carver, Steve Valleau, beginning on Oct. 21 and running through Dec. 16. There will be no class the Saturday after Thanksgiving.

This in-person class takes place at the Gilley from 9am-noon. Class size is limited and registration is required.

Paint 'n' Sip for Adults and Kids - Snow Falling on Rooftops

October 21, 2023 1:00 - 3:00 pm

Come paint with local artist Erika Rosso and learn to work with masking fluid and watercolor to create your own painting of snow falling on rooftops at night. Erika will guide students step by step to create their painting, demonstrating how to apply washes and how to use masking fluid. Suitable for ages 5 and older.  Snacks and non-alcoholic beverages provided.

Fall Carving Workshop-Barn Swallow Online

October 21 - December 16, 2023

Carve a barn swallow in this 8-week class under the guidance of the Gilley's master carver, Steve Valleau, beginning on Oct. 21 and running through Dec. 16. There will be no class the Saturday after Thanksgiving.

This online-only class takes place at the Gilley from 1-4pm. Class size is limited and registration is required.

Wet on Wet Watercolor Technique Workshop

October 27, 2023 4:00 - 6:00 pm

This is a wonderful class for beginning watercolor painters or for anyone wanting to experiment with the more playful side of watercolor.  Local artist Erika Rosso will guide students through several different exercises and paintings to explore the movement of paint and water on paper. 

Wear clothes you don't mind getting messy!  Suitable for ages 10 and older.

Rescheduled for 2024 - Our Maine: Exploring Its Rich Natural Heritage - Book Event

October 28, 2023 4:00 - 6:00 pm

 Rescheduled for 2024

Join the editors and photographer who teamed up to create “Our Maine: Exploring Its Rich Natural Heritage,” a book of essays by 33 contributors that paints a vivid portrait of Maine's wild places and wild creatures, as well as of human impacts and the way the state's heritage has changed. Editors Aram Calhoun, Mac Hunter and Kent Redford and photographer Laura Zamfirescu will be at the Wendell Gilley Museum on Saturday, Oct. 28 for a 4pm reception and book signing followed by a 5pm presentation that will be livecast simultaneously with the in-person program. Free and open to all but registration required.

The Secrets of Northern Cardinals

November 11, 2023 1:00 - 2:00 pm

Northern Cardinals are one of the most stunning songbirds that increasingly grace our Maine backyards. What secrets are hiding underneath that brilliant red? How does a cardinal learn its song? What are the keys to a successful cardinal nest? Most importantly, why are they so red? The answers to all these questions (and more) will be explored at the Wendell Gilley Museum on Saturday, Nov. 11, at 1pm with Schoodic Institute Science Research Fellow Brooke Goodman. Brooke spent four years researching cardinals in New York, examining connections between body condition and song, urbanization and feather quality, and vegetation and nesting success. Goodman will discuss her research, and delve into the unique role Mainers now play in the northern expansion of the cardinals’ range. 

Goodman earned her undergraduate degree in zoology and applied statistics at SUNY Oswego. While there she completed her undergraduate thesis studying song performance as a predictor of body condition and plumage color in Northern Cardinals. She currently works as a Gero Fellow in Science Research at the Schoodic Institute, using bioacoustics to monitor avian community response to restoration efforts in Acadia National Park. Brooke has also spent time in Montana studying the breeding birds of the great plains with the Smithsonian Conservation Biology Institute.

Workshop: Miniature Landscapes in Watercolor

November 11, 2023 4:00 - 6:00 pm

Come play with watercolors and create a miniature landscape – or even two or three!  Artist Erika Rosso will guide you through the mixing of paint and basic methods of applying watercolor to paint a landscape of MDI mountains and ocean. You will learn wet-on-wet technique, how to make clouds, and how to layer colors to achieve variation of texture and value. Suitable for beginners and beyond.  All materials provided as well as wine, beer, snacks and non-alcoholic beverages. Restricted to those 21 and older.

People-Nature-Art: Photographer J.K. Putnam

November 14, 2023 5:30 - 8:30 pm

John K. Putnam, a full-time nature and landscape photographer based on Mount Desert Island, will be the November People-Nature-Art presenter at the Wendell Gilley Museum on Tuesday, Nov. 14. There will be a 5:30pm reception followed by a presentation at 7pm that will be offered in-person as well as livecast online. All events are free but registration is required.

From 2006 to 2014, Putnam worked as a photographer in New York City producing work for publishing companies and magazines as well as photographing high-end events, all while spending every vacation traveling and photographing across five continents, 20 states, and more than 30 national parks. He moved to Mount Desert Island in 2015.

People-Nature-Art is a monthly series that brings artists, writers, carvers, and creative types of all kinds to the Gilley to explore how nature and art interact in their work, and how their art impacts their own approach to nature. Each session for 2023 is sponsored by our friends at Bar Harbor Bank & Trust.

Bird Bead Necklace

November 18, 2023 10:30 am - 12:30 pm

Join art teacher Kathie Pratt to make a bird pendant or bead from polymer clay to make your very own necklace. Kathie will walk you through the steps, and you will bake off your creation and have a chance to paint it before you leave. Suitable for ages 5 and older.

Elephant Paint 'n' Sip for Kids & Adults

November 18, 2023 1:00 - 3:00 pm

Paint a colorful elephant in watercolor, on the last day of the Museum's exhibit of elephant photos by Peter Beard and animal sculptures by Dan Falt.  

Artist Erika Rosso will walk students through a step-by-step process. All materials provided as well as tea, seltzer and juice for this family friendly paint 'n' sip suitable for all experience levels, and those age 5 and older. All materials provided.

Paint 'n' Sip: Chickadees & Snowy Branches

December 2, 2023 4:00 - 6:00 pm

Unwind from the busy holiday season and come make a painting with us!  Join artist Erika Rosso and learn how to use watercolors to create a painting of black-capped chickadees and snow. Suitable for beginners and beyond. All materials provided as well as wine, beer, snacks and non-alcoholic beverages.  Restricted to those 21 and older.

People-Nature-Art with mixed media artist Sara Tabbert

December 12, 2023 7:00 - 8:30 pm

Printmaker and mixed media artist Sara Tabbert – a past Acadia National Park artist in residence – joins us from her home studio in Fairbanks, Alaska as December’s People-Nature-Art presenter at the Wendell Gilley Museum on Tuesday, Dec. 12 in an online-only presentation at 7pm. Free but registration is required.

Tabbert’s large-scale public art commissions can be found throughout Alaska and her work is housed in public collections through the state and far beyond. In early 2020, the Alaska State Museum presented a solo exhibit of her recent work.

 She has been awarded grants from the Rasmuson Foundation and the Alaska State Council on the Arts. In addition to residencies in the United States, Canada, Argentina, and Italy, Tabbert has been an artist-in-residence through the National Park Service in Denali, Zion, Isle Royale, the Chilkoot Trail, and Acadia National Park. She has been selected as a 2024 resident fellow in the Windgate ITE program at the Center for Art in Wood in Philadelphia.

People-Nature-Art is a monthly series that brings artists, writers, carvers, and creative types of all kinds to the Gilley to explore how nature and art interact in their work, and how their art impacts their own approach to nature. Each session for 2023 is sponsored by our friends at Bar Harbor Bank & Trust.

Community Open House & Art Show

December 17, 2023 1:00 - 4:00 pm

Gather as a community and enjoy the creative spirit of MDI at the Wendell Gilley Museum for the Museum's annual Community Open House & Art Show on Sunday, Dec. 17, from 1 to 4 p.m.. Admission is free and light refreshments will be served.

We will have a special one-day-only exhibit of art created at the Gilley in 2023, everything from bird drawings by third-graders to bird carvings by long-time carvers. There will be felted fish and birds made of butternut, linocut prints and pencil drawings, paintings and more.

This exhibit will include a special section devoted to work produced as part of the Fall HandWorks Festival collaboration with ArtWaves this year.

Free and open to all.

 

Special Year-End Paint 'n' Sip: Misty Mountains Dec. 30

December 30, 2023 3:00 - 5:00 pm

Artist Erika Rosso leads this special year-end Paint ‘n’ Sip for adults only on Saturday, Dec. 30 from 3 to 5 p.m. Create your own version of Misty Mountains, inspired by Japanese artist Higashiyama Shinkichi that weaves together layers of mountains fading into the mist.

Sip on wine, tea or seltzer as part of this adults-only class, which is suitable for artists of all levels who are at least 21 years old.

All materials and beverages will be provided. Each step will be demonstrated and explained, making for a fun and approachable class. The cost is $28 for museum members and $35 for non-members. Spaces are limited.

Paint 'n' Sip: The Wave in Ink & Watercolor-Jan. 5

January 5, 2024 4:00 - 6:00 pm

Create your own version of Katsushika Hokusai's The Wave in ink and watercolor led by instructor Erika Rosso. The Wave is a woodblock print that has inspired artists all over the world. Students will begin by drafting a painting in pencil, then applying waterproof ink pen before finishing it with watercolor paint. In essence students will be creating a template for the painting with pens, then  “coloring in" the lines using paint.

Sip on wine, tea or seltzer as part of this adults-only class, which is suitable for artists of all levels who are at least 21 years old.

All materials and beverages will be provided. Each step will be demonstrated and explained, making for a fun and approachable class. The cost is $28 for museum members and $35 for non-members. Spaces are limited.

All-Ages Paint 'n' Sip: Texture, Pattern & Other Fun Watercolor Experiments

January 13, 2024 1:00 - 3:00 pm

In this class students will make three paintings using various techniques to create texture and patterns. These will include using tape and watercolors to create a modern piece of art; using plastic wrap to create texture; and using crayons and salt. Perfect for the person who likes to experiment and try new things. It is also great for kids or adults who like to move from project to project quickly, as we will be working on several experiments!

For adults who like to play and children age 5 and up. Snacks and non-alcoholic beverages provided.

2-Part Class: Color Studies & Technique in Watercolor

January 19, 2024 11:30 am - 1:30 pm

Jan. 19 & Jan. 26

This is a wonderful 2-part class for beginners or watercolor painters who need to “brush” up on their color studies and technique. The fee covers both classes and all materials. It is taught by Erika Rosso.

In the first class students will be focusing on mixing colors, layering colors and creating different values. These experiments will be created in grids and labeled so that you can refer to them for future paintings. We will discover which colors are granulated, translucent or opaque and how they interact. Students will work on the values and graded washes on the first day.

On the second workshop day, students will focus on watercolor technique—how to layer color, when to allow washes to dry in between coats, and when to add color to wet washes. We will also experiment with dry brush techniques and learn when to use more saturated color. All materials supplied. This class is suitable for ages 16 and up.

Getting Wild: Animal-based Game Play with Camp Beech Cliff

January 20, 2024 10:30 am - 12:00 pm

Join Camp Beech Cliff's Matt Cornish at the Gilley for Getting Wild: Animal-based Game Play, on Saturday, Jan. 20, from 10:30am to noon. We’ll spend some time getting to know each other, and exploring the environment through a combination of get-to-know you games and games involving critters that crawl, hop, and soar. Whether it’s via parachute, camouflage, or more, we’ll make discoveries about our world and each other through play. This all happens outside at the Museum, 4 Herrick Road in Southwest Harbor.

Camp Beech Cliff will be with us at the Gilley the third Saturday of each month through April. Fee is $14 for non-members and $10 for members. Registration required.

People-Nature-Art with Environmental Decoy Artist Sue Schubel

January 24, 2024 6:00 - 8:30 pm

RESCHEDULED to Wed., Jan. 24 -- 6pm in-person reception & 7pm in-person and online presentation

The first People-Nature-Art of 2024 features Project Puffin's "Seabird Sue” Schubel, who paints decoys at Audubon’s Seabird Institute based in Bremen, Maine, but not decoys intended for hunting; her creations help attract birds to breeding colonies.

The arc of the year now sees her in the field during the spring and summer, working with researchers on the seven Maine seabird islands managed by Audubon. Fall and winter is time to send social attraction tools (sound systems and decoys) to other projects around the world. Over many years, Sue has been with Audubon as a seasonal island supervisor and researcher, a volunteer coordinator and instructor at the Hog Island Audubon Camp, and an outreach educator reaching thousands of kids in the mid-coast. Prior to settling down in a hand-built house in Maine, she lived the life of a travelling biologist/paleontologist/artist/carpenter and explored islands from Polynesia to Iceland. 

This free in-person event will be simultaneously livecast. There will be a 6pm reception for Sue before her presentation which begins at 7pm. This is rescheduled from its original date of Jan. 16 due to a storm.

2-Part Class: Color Studies & Technique in Watercolor

January 26, 2024 11:30 am - 1:30 pm

Jan. 19 & Jan. 26

This is a wonderful 2-part class for beginners or watercolor painters who need to “brush” up on their color studies and technique. The fee covers both classes and all materials. It is taught by Erika Rosso.

In the first class students will be focusing on mixing colors, layering colors and creating different values. These experiments will be created in grids and labeled so that you can refer to them for future paintings. We will discover which colors are granulated, translucent or opaque and how they interact. Students will work on the values and graded washes on the first day.

On the second workshop day, students will focus on watercolor technique—how to layer color, when to allow washes to dry in between coats, and when to add color to wet washes. We will also experiment with dry brush techniques and learn when to use more saturated color. All materials supplied. This class is suitable for ages 16 and up.

Flash Fiction Workshop with Annaliese Jakimides 3/1

January 27, 2024 9:00 - 11:30 am

Award-winning writer Annaliese Jakimides will teach a flash fiction workshop, using art currently on display at the museum as inspiration. “Likely, you'll surprise yourself with what bubbles up,” says Jakimides. 

“Flash fiction is known by many names, including sudden fiction, short-short stories, and microfiction. Although people often think it's a ‘new’ form of writing, it's been around for as long as we've been writing stories.”

Jakimides has placed in the World's Best Short-Short Story Contest multiple times.

Winner of the Acadia Prize in Poetry, Annaliese Jakimides has more than five hundred publications in magazines, journals, anthologies, and newspapers, and broadcast online and on radio. She has multiple Pushcart Prize nominations and has been a finalist for the Maine Literary Awards in both Poetry and Nonfiction—multiple times for each one—as well as for the Stephen Dunn Poetry Prize. Her work has also been included in art venues such as ArtWord at the Portland Museum of Art. Her essay for NPR’s vaunted This I Believe program was included in the show’s anthology and CD, curated by Liane Hansen. Jakimides’ most recent publication is the essay “I Tell Henry the Plate Is Red,” in the anthology Breaking Bread (Beacon Press, 2022).

A native of inner-city Boston, she moved to northern Maine and raised a family, growing almost all of their food and pumping water by hand. She currently lives in an apartment overlooking the copper dome of the Bangor Public Library. She is also a noted teacher of writing. In addition to working with urban environmental justice organizations and international arts groups, she has developed humanities programs for schools and discussed life through the lens of children’s literature in a variety of settings, including prisons, community centers, and libraries.

Paint 'n' Sip: Fox and Snow

February 2, 2024 4:00 - 6:00 pm

In winter, foxes turn a beautiful shade of red that contrasts with the snow. We will be playing with this contrast to create a simple painting in watercolor of a winter landscape complete with a forest in the background and a fox in the foreground. Students will be guided step by step, beginners welcome!

Sip on wine, tea or seltzer as part of this adults-only class, which is suitable for artists of all levels who are at least 21 years old. All materials and beverages provided.

Nature-themed Clay Beads

February 3, 2024 1:30 - 3:30 pm

Join art teacher Kathie Pratt to make nature-themed beads from polymer clay. Kathie will walk you through the steps, and you will bake off your creation and have a chance to paint it before you leave. Suitable for ages 12 and older.

LoveBirds: Valentine Printmaking

February 3, 2024 5:00 - 7:00 pm

Feel the love in this fun printmaking class with Juliana Ramirez, just in time for Valentine’s Day. We’ll make color prints using EZ carve, a printmaking material that is softer and easier to use than linoleum blocks. Materials will be provided – just bring an idea for a simple image you'd like to turn into a woodblock-style print. Space is limited and participants must be at least 10 years old. Reservations required. Non-alcoholic beverages and snacks will be provided.

All-Ages Paint 'n' Sip: Pop-Art Waves

February 10, 2024 1:00 - 3:00 pm

In this colorful class, students will be dividing their paper into several squares with tape and using masking marker to create "foam" for their waves. They will then use watercolor to create several different colors of waves on their papers. There is some repetition and experimentation in this painting so it is great for beginners or young students just learning to paint. Fun ocean facts will also be woven into class.

For adults who like to play and children age 5 and up. Snacks and non-alcoholic beverages provided.

Wildlife Tracking

February 17, 2024 10:30 am - 12:00 pm

Join Camp Beech Cliff’s Molly Stewart at the Gilley on Saturday, Feb. 17 beginning at 10:30am to learn about the art of tracking animals. This is a terrific activity for adults, kids, and families. We’ll start inside, then head outside to see what we can find in the way of wildlife tracks and sign in the immediate vicinity.

Camp Beech Cliff will be with us at the Gilley the third Saturday of each month through April. Fee is $14 for non-members and $10 for members. Registration required.

The Magic of Burnt Sienna and Ultramarine 2/23

February 23, 2024 10:30 am - 1:00 pm

Explore the endless possibilities of using just two colors to create unique and beautiful paintings. We will first be creating a color grid to experiment with the colors Burnt Sienna and Ultramarine and then creating several "loose" paintings of landscapes to test these colors. Students will be encouraged to push their values to create dramatic contrast in their paintings. We will take a 15 minute break halfway through class. Suitable for beginner painters and beyond.

People-Nature-Art with Rose Tanner 2/27

February 27, 2024 7:00 - 8:00 pm

Artist-Conservationist Rose Tanner joins the Gilley online for February’s People-Nature-Art presentation. Rose is an award-winning artist based in Vancouver, B.C., who loves the outdoors and studying birds. She is dedicated to portraying her subjects using traditional oil painting techniques.

As a professional artist, Rose Tanner has dedicated years to the arts and is constantly seeking new and innovative ways to develop new skills. She believes it’s her attention to their inner being that gives them their lifelike quality in her paintings. She says, "If my paintings can remind you of how extraordinary, how diverse and how truly beautiful nature is then I have done my work."

Rose travels widely to find her subjects, and she is active in supporting endangered birds and their habitat. She is a signature member of The Federation of Canadian Artists.

This is an online-only event, with Rose Zooming in from her home studio in Canada.

People-Nature-Art is monthly series brings artists, writers, carvers, and creative types of all kinds to the Gilley to explore how nature and art interact in their work, and how their art impacts their own approach to nature.

Flash Fiction Workshop with Annaliese Jakimides 3/1

March 1, 2024 9:00 - 11:30 am

Award-winning writer Annaliese Jakimides will teach a flash fiction workshop, using art currently on display at the museum as inspiration. “Likely, you'll surprise yourself with what bubbles up,” says Jakimides. 

“Flash fiction is known by many names, including sudden fiction, short-short stories, and microfiction. Although people often think it's a ‘new’ form of writing, it's been around for as long as we've been writing stories.”

Jakimides has placed in the World's Best Short-Short Story Contest multiple times.

Winner of the Acadia Prize in Poetry, Annaliese Jakimides has more than five hundred publications in magazines, journals, anthologies, and newspapers, and broadcast online and on radio. She has multiple Pushcart Prize nominations and has been a finalist for the Maine Literary Awards in both Poetry and Nonfiction—multiple times for each one—as well as for the Stephen Dunn Poetry Prize. Her work has also been included in art venues such as ArtWord at the Portland Museum of Art. Her essay for NPR’s vaunted This I Believe program was included in the show’s anthology and CD, curated by Liane Hansen. Jakimides’ most recent publication is the essay “I Tell Henry the Plate Is Red,” in the anthology Breaking Bread (Beacon Press, 2022).

A native of inner-city Boston, she moved to northern Maine and raised a family, growing almost all of their food and pumping water by hand. She currently lives in an apartment overlooking the copper dome of the Bangor Public Library. She is also a noted teacher of writing. In addition to working with urban environmental justice organizations and international arts groups, she has developed humanities programs for schools and discussed life through the lens of children’s literature in a variety of settings, including prisons, community centers, and libraries.

Paint 'n' Sip: Barn in a Snowy Field-3/1

March 1, 2024 4:00 - 6:00 pm

Painting snow is easy in watercolor! We just don't paint it and instead paint around the snow. Come experiment with this process with artist Erika Rosso and learn to create a snowy landscape. We will be using some masking fluid and salt to help create our image. Students will be guided step by step.

Sip on wine, tea or seltzer as part of this adults-only class, which is suitable for artists of all levels who are at least 21 years old. All materials and beverages provided.

All-Ages Paint 'n' Sip: Fields of Snow and Trees-Time Change

March 9, 2024 1:30 - 3:30 pm

Create a winter wonderland in watercolor with local artist Erika Rosso. Students will be using the white of their paper for the snow and learning how to reserve that space as they paint in trees, birds and sky. This class is more suited for older children and adults, ages 7 and up! Snacks and non-alcoholic beverages provided. Originally scheduled for 10:30am, the time for this workshop has been changed to the afternoon, starting at 1:30pm.

Winter Survival Adaptations

March 16, 2024 10:30 am - 12:00 pm

Join Camp Beech Cliff’s Molly Stewart at the Gilley on Saturday, March 16 to learn about the ways animals adapt to survive in the winter. This will include an outdoor portion to explore and spot some of these adaptations for ourselves. Camp Beech Cliff will be with us at the Gilley the third Saturday of each month through April. Fee is $14 for non-members and $10 for members. Registration required.

wooden bird carvings