Arts & Entertainment

Noank Historical Society Celebrates Art Tradition Then and Now

Noank Historical Society Exhibits Local Artists

The ocean is a curious, oversized beast to tackle in the art world. It’s a forest of hanging implications with which to snag your sweater. Overcharged themes like the nautical wanderlust or lonely lighthouse watchmen make a dizzying maze for interpretation.

Yet, Noank has navigated this space quite astutely; forging a reputation as a powerhouse for local seascape art.

The Noank Historical Society Art Exhibition, of no exception, has become a place where the wayfarer can rest his head and take a piece of home back with him on his journey to the unknown.

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The exhibition is in its 18th year and is one of the society’s biggest fundraisers. This year’s show runs at the Latham Chester Store from July 1 through September 5, Wednesday through Sunday, from 1p.m. to 4 p.m.

The exhibit features oil and water color painting, pen and ink drawing, photography, and print.

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“It grows each year and we do quite well,” said Carrie Reynolds, coordinator of the Historical Society’s art show over the past four years. “It’s what people look forward to.”

This year’s show has attracted more than 52 local artists, a collection of voices that have already sold 30 pieces in the show’s short run. Thirty percent of each art sale benefits the Historical Society.

The exhibit is ever-changing, as artists are allowed to replace sold pieces with new work.

“It’s nice seeing the variety in the artists,” Reynolds said. “Some artists who have never sold anything in the past several years are selling. It’s good fun.”

The Historical Society exhibition is distinguished not only by its changing pace, but also by its familiarity and intimacy.

“It’s not a juried show,” said Mary Carey, a member artist. “You get a lot of different artists, so the people don’t feel intimidated to show their things. And the prices aren’t outrageous.”

The Historical Society celebrates Noank’s rich art legacy, in recognizing the impact of founders like Henry Ward Ranger, but also contributes to the ever-flowing stream of art innovation by providing a space for art collaboration.

“I think it’s just fun and we all know each other,” said Carey, of the artists’ weekly gathering at Latham Chester. “We usually have quite a group sharing on Thursday afternoons. You get a lot of ideas from other people.”


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