JEWEL OF THE SEA

SOLD

Previously displayed at Meetinghouse Arts, Freeport Maine

In my original oil painting Jewel of the Sea, I sought to portray the rising acknowledgment, awareness, and presence that oyster farms are assuming on the Maine coast.

Maine has 3,500 miles of coastline, with cold, salty ocean water rich in nutrients where oysters are nature's filters, tirelessly cleansing the water. In Casco Bay, oysters are vital components of a larger ecological tapestry. Their filtering process improves water clarity and quality, supporting the health of the entire marine ecosystem. In my painting, I wanted to honor the oyster's silent contribution to the relentless bombardment of synthetic nitrogens and toxins humans release into the seas.

Interestingly, oysters are a reflection of the micro-environment in which they grow. Everything from water temperature, salinity, season, the geology of the watershed, and growing methods impact each oyster.

Each and every oyster, working tirelessly in our dark seas, is a little gem of its own.

The Process

I used a palette of delicate playful tones, layering on shades of muted browns and grays to capture the natural patina of the shell. The variation in mark-making, from bold, textured strokes to fine, delicate lines, conveys the complexity of its form. My deep saturation of colors plays with a hint of glimmering, floating -almost mystical quality- with a bit of playfulness.

What To Do in Maine

One can no longer experience Maine without learning about the vital role oysters play in our seas, and how they bring together a string of communities up and down the coastline.

The Maine Oyster Festival
Plan a weekend around this growing festival to meet local oyster farmers, enjoy live music, and explore art. And of course, if you're up for it, indulge in some shucking and slurping!

Mere Point Oyster Farm
I’m partial to Mere Point because of its locality and its ongoing efforts in community involvement and education. You can visit their farm on a charming boat tour during the summer or support them at your local farmer’s market, as I do.

Maine Oyster Trail
This is a brilliant idea! The oyster movement now has its own "trail." Grab a passport and explore oysters all along our coastline. Think of it as a destination similar to a wine region or a string of microbreweries—but even better.

Freeport Oyster Bar
While you can find oysters in nearly any town, I love the simplicity of Freeport Oyster Bar, tucked on Maine Street. Grab a barstool, try something new, and if you’re lucky, enjoy some live local music, too.