Not for Artists or Collectors Only

I am neither an artist nor a collector of fine paintings, but that doesn’t exclude me from appreciating and admiring works by talented artists. Today I visited the Maritime Gallery at Mystic Seaport to view the Museum Purchase Award Collection, on display until the end of March. (The Maritime Gallery is located next to the Museum Store, open Monday through Sunday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and offers free admission.) I have some words of advice:  Don’t miss this exhibit! It’s a rare opportunity to view these exquisite maritime selections all at the same time.
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The selection process begins during the Maritime Gallery’s Annual International Marine Art Exhibition in September.  A member of the Museum’s curatorial staff honors one of the artists by selecting for purchase his or her painting for the Museum’s permanent collection.

So I picked two works as my own favorites from those chosen during the years 1983 to 2009. One is oil by artist, Douglas Purdon, titled “Tugboat Alley” and the other a graphic by William H. Ewen,  Jr. titled, “Tug Coming Alongside.” I admit I may have been influenced a bit in my choice by the special exhibit Mystic Seaport has planned for later this spring: the opening of the new Tugs! exhibit  Saturday, May 8, and Tug Blast held the weekend of May 22 and 23.  You’ll be hearing more about that; so stay tuned. 

Douglas Purdon, "Tugboat Alley" Oil 22 X 28

Right now though,  do get yourself to the Maritime Gallery to view  the Museum Purchase Award  Collection.  Pretend you’re a judge and choose your own  award  winner  in the collection.  It won’t be easy. These are magnificent works  representing  a mixed medium of oils, water colors,  acrylics and graphics. Most selections have historically focused on ships, sailing or a nautical  commercial  theme,  although the 2009 selection hints of a broadening in scope.

Mark your calendar.  The Museum Purchase Award Collection  remains up until March 31.  The Tugs! exhibit will  be tooting into Mystic Seaport in May.

There’s always something new happening at Mystic Seaport.  Check our website  often so you don’t miss out.

Blog written by Trudi Busey