DAMARISCOTTA

Who isn’t moved by certain colors? Artists know that colors are warm or cold and that opposites make interesting greys, but appreciating art can be an instinctual response to the colors resonating in a particular piece of work.

Stable Gallery’s August show is titled “Color Play.” The show opens with a public reception for the artists from 5-7 p.m. today.

This month’s show features two of Stable Gallery’s new 2018 artists, a returning artist, and seven other Maine artists with local followings.

New to the gallery in 2018, Robert Gibson of Orr’s Island creates large, bright paintings of still lives.

“My aim is to construct vibrant compositions of color to rekindle in the viewer a sense of joy, peace, and harmony,” he said.

Scott Baltz of Mount Desert is the other new Stable Gallery member highlighted in August. Baltz’s works are creations of his memories from visiting local landscapes.

“Color decisions are made as my paintings progress,” Baltz explained. “My works revolve around capturing transitional light.”

Adero Willard’s colorfully crafted ceramics are always a hit at Stable Gallery. Returning to the gallery after several years, Willard explained, “a passion for color and pattern fuel my work. A love of clay grounds me.” The results are beautifully patterned mugs, vases, and more.

Stable Gallery walls also feature work of artist members Priscilla McCandless, Penelope Moodey, and Jon Luoma with uniquely personal responses to their environment. Luoma creates distinctive landscapes with watercolor and Chinese ink. Moodey expresses her vision with soft greens and purples that can be seen as water, flowers, or atmosphere. McCandless’ work exudes energy and color in either pastel or oil.

Ruth Hartman’s jewelry is inspired by her desire to find balance between nature, color, movement, and the senses.

“I hope that my jewelry enhances the wearer’s beauty and grace,” she said.

Steve Ryder uses the colors and features of wood to produce an exquisite body of work from flower vases to tables. Susie Perrine offers multi-media lamps and bracelets.

Finally, Kimberly Bentley creates fish, rabbits and other clay animals to enliven your garden or rooms with character and humor.

Thirty-some other Maine artists’ works are displayed in the remaining gallery rooms.

The “Color Play” show is installed at Stable Gallery through Sept. 11.

The gallery at 28 Water St. in Damariscotta is open daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. For more information, call (207) 563-1991 or visit the gallery’s website, www.stablegallerymaine.com.