Speers Gallery at Kennebunk Free Library will present, Joan Forrester — Maine Artist in an exhibit that will run Sept. 2-30, An artist’s reception is scheduled for 2 to 4 p.m. on Saturday, Sept. 13. All are welcome.

According to a news release, Forrester lives in Andover, Maine, and captures everything from nature studies to contemporary mediums using watercolor, pen and ink, acrylic, pastel and oil. The daughter of two Maine artists, she grew up exposed to various art mediums, and now in retirement is enjoying expanding her desire to create.

“All art sends different messaging and is received individually,” said Forrester in an email. “Be open to the experience and take away what you want. I paint for myself, my excitement to see color on paper.”

Speers Gallery at Kennebunk Free Library will host Andover, Maine, Joan Forrester in an exhibit that will run in September. An artist’s reception is scheduled for 2 to 4 p.m. on Saturday, Sept. 13. (Courtesy of Kennebunk Free Library)

Forrester has had both informal and formal art training and is a member of the Andover Artists Group. She has shown her work at the Congregational Church in Kennebunkport as well as other fine art shows. Kennebunk Free Library is excited to welcome the enthusiastic artist to Speers Gallery.

The public is invited to view the exhibit in Speers Gallery from Sept. 2-30 at 112 Main St., Kennebunk, during regular library hours when the gallery is not in use for library programs. For hours and gallery access, visit www.kennebunklibrary.org.

Accepting applications to exhibit in 2026

Kennebunk Free Library is accepting applications for artists to exhibit during the 2026 calendar year. Since its inception in 2001, Speers Gallery has offered exhibit opportunities to both amateur and professional artists. The gallery has hosted a variety of mediums including photography, textile arts and mixed media assemblages in addition to renditions in oil, pastel, enamel oil, encaustic, pen and ink, and watercolor.

The application process is open to both individual and group shows. Applications must be received by Friday, Oct. 17, 2025. Application forms are available at the library or on the library’s website, www.kennebunklibrary.org.

In November 2025, an art committee consisting of members from the library and art communities will convene to review the completed applications and set a monthly exhibit schedule for 2026. Upon completion of the review, applicants will be contacted regarding the committee’s decisions.

Offering monthly artist exhibits contributes to Kennebunk Free Library’s mission to inspire and enable the communities to discover, learn, and connect.

“The library is very proud to have showcased the many talented artists who have previously exhibited and is looking forward to continuing this tradition with the 2026 exhibit schedule,” wrote organizers.