Lincoln Theater will present a free screening of “Outsider,” an award-winning documentary film about the life of painter Maury Ornest and his journey with mental illness. The 40-minute film, to be shown at 7 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 10, will be followed by a panel discussion featuring artist Eric Hopkins, Dr. Cynthia Sortwell, and Maury’s sister, Laura Ornest.

Winner of the Audience Award for Best Short Film at the Montclair Film Festival, “Outsider” presents a rarely seen, candid view of a family's journey with mental illness and captures how art has the profound ability to sustain a life. The film chronicles late painter Maury Ornest, who lived a life shaped by both triumph and struggle, always returning to creativity as a source of meaning. Narrated by comedian and mental health advocate Gary Gulman, the film features interviews with people who knew Ornest best and explores the ways creativity became both a form of expression and a lifeline throughout his mental health journey.

Born in Vancouver and raised in Los Angeles, Maury Ornest was a professional baseball player before injuries ended his athletic career. As an adult, he began experiencing schizoaffective disorder, which changed the course of his life. It was art that gave Maury another arena. Basically self-taught, he filled canvases and journals with a profound body of work. When Ornest died at age 58, his sister discovered approximately 1,400 paintings and thousands of pages of journals. The discovery began an unexpected journey to understand and share her brother’s work and story.

A small selection of Maury’s paintings are currently hanging in the Fenniman Lobby at Lincoln Theater.

“I’m so glad Laura Ornest made it possible for us to share Maury’s work here at the theater,” said Christina Belknap, Lincoln Theater’s executive director. “I think our audience will enjoy having the experience of seeing his work in person. The paintings have such vibrant colors and so much energy. Having them here is a wonderful opportunity to connect with Maury’s story.”

The paintings will remain on display in the lobby through the film screening and are available for purchase. All proceeds received from paintings purchased prior to the film screening on Sept. 10 will go to support Lincoln Theater.

We look forward to seeing you for this free special event.  Lincoln Theater is located at 2 Theater St. in the heart of downtown Damariscotta. More information is available online at LincolnTheater.org or by contacting the theater office at info@LincolnTheater.org and 563-3424.