A new show opens June 23 at the Damariscotta River Grill featuring seasoned artists Sandy Crabtree, Sandy Harper, and Doug Houle. Three very accomplished painters capture unique viewpoints of the natural beauty of Maine. The “Art at the Grill” opening reception is Thursday, June 26; the show runs through Aug. 11.

Sandy Crabtree is an incredibly accomplished and prolific painter in Bath. For 30 years Sandra taught high school art as well as private classes. “Observations and memories developed as a young person have influenced my lifelong love of nature and art," she said. "In my work I strive to capture a sense of place and share those moments using layers of colors combined with expressive brushwork.

"The play of light across a body of water, the transitory effects of sunlight on an object, light shining through atmospheric conditions are all a part of my subject matter," said Crabtree. "My work follows the changes from season to season in color and patterns and the simple processing of life in everyday things."

Sandy Harper: Rugged course-grained rock outcrops, luminous crashing water, shifting cloud formations and spectacular autumnal foliage - these are the hallmarks of her work. Since 1988 Sandy has lived and worked in the rural Litchfield since 1988; but she's been inspired to paint the beauty of Maine for 40 years. Seascapes, coastal villages, lighthouses, and inland landscapes are painted in a style of traditional realism employing a light touch and a focused attention to detail.  

“Maine seascapes with their challenge of ever changing light and dynamic movement continue to be a favorite subject to paint," said Harper.  "I want to reflect the mood, and powerful movement of the sea, the resilience and intricacies of the shoreline rocks and the radiance of the light striking the water.”  

Doug Houle lives in Jefferson and for the last 30 years he's been traveling northern New England. His focus: painting New England's buildings and landscapes, boatyards and docks, creating dramatic images using light and color. "I am drawn to the charm and nostalgia around old homes, barns, store fronts, light- houses and boatyards. Light and color are crucial for these pieces. Objects absorb and reflect all sorts of color and how that is manipulated impacts the mood. The light that each color creates is there to invite you," shared Houle.

The Grill, located at 155 Main St., Damariscotta, is now open seven nights for dinner, starting at 4 p.m. Daily Happy Hour is 3-5:30 p.m. with discounted drinks and appetizers. To make a reservation, please call 207-563-2992.  For more information: www.damariscottarivergrill.com.