During these challenging times, we at MFT hope to brighten your day by sharing the creative abundance of artists and writers whose work explores and celebrates agriculture and environment. While our Gallery in Belfast and the Joseph A. Fiore Art Center in Jefferson will be closed until it is safe to resume public programming, we will be continuing the MFT gallery exhibits as scheduled through our virtual platforms. VISIT our 2019 Fiore Residents’ Exhibit and stay tuned for our online artist talks May 22. View our 2020 Gallery Brochure HERE.
In the best interest of health and safety, MFT has made the decision to cancel this year’s in-person summer residency at Rolling Acres. . Most of the applicants that were awarded a residency have chosen to defer. Four however have elected to do a virtual residency with us this summer as a way to further their work as it reflects on agriculture, environment and our current times:
Katie Shlon (portrait: top, left), Performance/Interdisciplinary Arts Resident (July), Sophie Kelmenson (portrait: bottom, left), Academic Writing Resident (August), Margot Kelley (portrait: top, left), Literary Arts Resident (September), and James Southard (photograph: bottom, right), Visual Artist (July/August) will be sharing their work through weekly virtual studio visits and other online platforms.
It’s at times like these when the arts, outdoors, and our greater community can provide the solace, hope, and belonging we need the most. Perhaps this is the perfect time to bring out that creative project you never had time for, or to spend extra time in your garden. While our public arts spaces are closed, we are offering an online platform for sharing inspiration and connection through our Instagram channels: @mft_gallery and @mainefarms. Please share what you are doing with more time at home and tag us at #mftgallery.
Meanwhile, please consider renewing your MFT membership (or becoming a member!) and supporting your local farmers who have worked hard all season to grow nutritious food for you, and who may be struggling now. We are so grateful for you – thank you for your continued support.
