The Kennebunk Free Library announces its February exhibition, “Maine Impressions,” the oil paintings of Marguerite Genest. The public is invited to view the exhibit at 112 Main St., Kennebunk, Maine during regular library hours when the gallery is not in use for library programs (library hours are: Monday and Tuesday 9:30 a.m. to 8 p.m., Wednesday 12:30 to 8 p.m., Thursday, Friday and Saturday 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.).

Marguerite began painting in childhood inspired by her talented sister and her mother’s flair for design and fashion. At Elms College in Western MA, she concentrated on oil painting learning to paint detailed, realistic still lifes, portraits and landscapes earning a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree. As her painting evolved Marguerite exhibited seascapes, landscapes and portraits. At that time, she became interested in the way children learn, culminating in a Doctorate in Educational Psychology allowing a career in helping parents understand how their children learn best, training teachers and using art to create visual learning aids.

Since relocating to Southern Maine, Marguerite has discovered a love for our beaches and the people and pets that gather there.

“I am inspired by the many moods and colors of the sea. I especially love the dramatic colors of sunsets over the oceans, which are never the same, but always amazing. When painting pet portraits, I am inspired by the soulfulness in the eyes of the animals, which lend an endearing quality to the paintings. The message behind my art is that of awe and the gratitude I feel for being able to live in a place surrounded by the ever changing beauty of the coast of Maine. Being present to all this area has to offer is important to me as I paint both the sea and the lovely pets that enjoy and savor this beautiful place as much as I do!”