BAR HARBOR, Maine—The beauty of Bar Harbor was first captured on canvas in the mid-1880’s by noted American painters. Soon other artists followed and today Bar Harbor supports a lively arts community. Each June the Bar Harbor Chamber of Commerce spotlights its artistic heritage with “Legacy of the Arts ”a village-wide celebration of the arts.
The 11th annual is June 20th - June 27. For the 59th year, the Chamber of Commerce hosts an outdoor art show comprised of the best works of regional artists. Original works in numerous genres are offered for sale sale by more than 30 artists. The show is 9:00 AM-5:00 PM June 20-21 on the Village Green.
Musical performances are held on the Village Green Monday through Thursday at 7:00 PM. “Harbor Blue” is on stage Thursday with multi-talented Marilyn Ryan and Willy Kelly playing acoustic, blues, and a bit of old rock n roll. The pair has opened for Leo Kottke and “the Father of Bluegrass Music,” Bill Monroe.
“Spirited Folk” performs at Agamont Park at 8:00 PM Sunday June 21. The audience sings along with the duo to lively renditions in the Pete Seeger tradition. Russell and Jeff take to the Agamont stage Wednesday, June 24 at 7:00 PM, a brand of entertainment billed as “a weirdo, a buffoon, and a pile of instruments.” It’s a toe-tapping good time at The Cat Ferry Terminal for “A Bit of Acadie” at 12:00 Noon on the 24th. The eclectic pair use homemade instruments, blending Acadian ballads and rock and roll tunes.
The “Thirsty Whale” hosts bands June 26 & 27. Vincent Gabriel, aka “Blind Albert,” is a no-holds barred blues and rock performer, rich in melody and emotion. On the 27th return for “Dirty Martini,” a local band playing an eclectic mix of blues rock and funk.
“Gilbert & Sullivan Ala Carte” performs selections from the Savoy Operas of W.S. Gilbert and Arthur Sullivan at Bar Harbor Congregational Church on June 26 at 7:00 PM.
Bands draw big crowds, but music is just one of many artistic genre represented. There are plein air painters, sculptors, dancers, carvers, magicians, storytellers, basket weavers, even a comedy troupe. An architectural tour and luncheon is set for June 24 at Saviors Episcopal Church. The stately landmark is graced with forty-two stained-glass windows as well as numerous examples of Louis Comfort Tiffany's artistry.
Events for kids include a workshop at the Abbe Museum on Saturday the 27th. Passamaquoddy birch bark artist and canoe maker David Moses Bridges entertains with native stories and shows children how to create works of wearable art fashioned from birch bark.
Most events are free. Those requiring a fee specify on the schedule. Check back often for all the latest developments for the 11th annual “Legacy of The Arts,” June 20-27 in Bar Harbor.
Bar Harbor Chamber of Commerce
CONTACT: Chris Fogg
TEL: 207-288-5103
E-MAIL: cfogg@barharborinfo.com
WEB: www.barharborinfo.com
