Farnsworth shows coastal Wyeths

The Farnsworth Art Museum is presenting The Wyeths: Impressions of Coastal Maine, beginning Oct. 26 through Dec. 31.

The exhibition presents paintings by N.C., Andrew, and James “Jamie” Wyeth, inviting viewers into the serene and evocative landscapes of Maine’s Midcoast, including Rockland, Tenants Harbor, and Port Clyde.

These communities, which have long served as a wellspring of inspiration for the Wyeth family, are reimagined in the watercolors and oils of three generations of painters.

This summer, curatorial intern and exhibition guest curator Sarai Marshall visited some of these iconic locations for the first time. Her own impressions of the coast are thoughtfully interwoven into her interpretation and presentation of the works on display.

This exhibition marks a milestone in the Farnworth’s Eddie C. and C. Sylvia Brown Institute for Museum Studies Program and exemplifies the program’s goal of introducing career paths to the next generation of museum professionals. Marshall, a senior at Morgan State University majoring in art history, was among three students who completed the inaugural internship program.

“We are thrilled to showcase this exceptional exhibition and celebrate the work of the Wyeth family,” said Christopher J. Brownawell, executive director of the Farnsworth Art Museum. “Sarai Marshall’s fresh perspective adds a unique dimension to the presentation, reflecting our ongoing mission to support emerging talent in the museum field.”

“I am incredibly grateful for the opportunity given to me by the Eddie C. and C. Sylvia Brown Institute for Museum Studies program and the Farnsworth Art Museum,” Marshall said. “The internship was a wonderful experience and introduction to coastal Maine. Learning more about the Wyeth’s was a large part of my role and I look forward to sharing my initial impressions of coastal Maine through this exhibition.”

The Wyeths: Impressions of Coastal Maine will be on view at the Farnsworth Art Museum from October 26 through December 31, 2024. For more information about the exhibition, visit the website.

N.C. Wyeth (1882–1945), “Maine Headland, Black Head, Monhegan Island,” ca. 1936–1938, oil on canvas, 48 1/4 x 52 1/4 inches, Bequest of Mrs. Elizabeth B. Noyce, 1997.