From seaside views of Peconic Bay and local harbors to bucolic farmland scenes, the North Fork has long inspired artists. In October, more than two dozen artists from the North Fork and Shelter Island will come together to show their work at Oysterponds Historical Society’s fifth annual North Fork Art & Artists Exhibition & Sale — a showcase of painting, photography, mixed media and sculpture.
The free exhibition runs October 10 through 18 at the Old Point Schoolhouse (1555 Village Lane, Orient, 631-323-2480) on OHS’s Orient campus.
This year’s event will also raise funds for the historical society. Proceeds from each artwork sold will be split evenly between the artist and OHS, with 50% going to each.
“We’re grateful for the participating artists’ willingness to be part of that effort alongside sharing their work with the greater community,” says Alison Ventura, OHS’s executive director. The fundraiser will help support the society’s programs and preservation work.
While summer exhibitions at OHS are generally mounted from their collection of 60,000 archival items, the fall Art & Artists Exhibition is really a thank you to the community, says Scott A. Robbins, development associate at the historical society. “Many of these artists have had longstanding relationships with OHS — many are members,” Robbins says. “It’s an opportunity for the community to visit and check out a lot of beautiful works by well-accomplished artists.”
Left, Marilyn Uhl-Utz, “Fallen Peaches on Terry’s Farm,” oil on canvas (Photo courtesy of the artist); right, Ella Wearing, “Entry Stepped,” gouache, ink on cotton rag board (Photo courtesy of the artist).
Robbins notes that the show has been very well received by both artists and visitors. “In the past what I’ve been impressed by is how varied the work is, not only in terms of media but style — from completely representational to abstract. That’s what I think makes this show dynamic.”
The price range of the artwork runs from $250 to $5,000 and above. “There’s something for every budget,” Robbins says.
Left, Wendell Jamieson, “Narrow River Marina,” oil on board (Photo courtesy of the artist); right, Laura Westlake, “Forever My Friend,” oil on board (Photo courtesy of the artist).
Oysterponds Historical Society was created in 1944 by local residents to preserve the history and culture of Orient and East Marion for future generations. Today, OHS maintains seven historic buildings across their 8.5 acres of grounds, including Poquatuck Park; the 1798 Village House, furnished with pieces from their collection and displayed as a 19th century boarding house; the Webb House, originally built in Greenport and moved to Orient by barge, and which features a permanent maritime exhibition; and the Red Barn, which serves as an exhibition space and contains tools, equipment and artifacts of farming, fishing, early transportation and winter activities.
The dates and hours for the exhibition, held in the Old Point Schoolhouse, are October 10-12 from 11 a.m.-5 p.m; October 13-15 from 2-5 p.m.; and October 16-18 from 11 a.m.-5 p.m.
Visit OHS’s website for more information.
