Exhibits, galleries, theater and more: Seacoast arts and culture news

The New Hampshire Art Association presents ‘Lush’

Banana Garden by Michael Walek
Banana Garden by Michael Walek

PORTSMOUTH — The New Hampshire Art Association presents Lush, an artist member exhibition opening May 3. Lush represents the consequences of unrestrained desire, reflecting on themes of consumerism, decadence, and the line between luxury and responsibility. Artists were urged to delve into these concepts, resulting in vibrant and lavish artworks. Each piece presents a world of its own, pulling the viewer in to explore. This exhibition is filled with flourishing gardens and overflowing scenes that speak to the essence of Lush. As we emerge from the austere embrace of winter, the exhibition celebrates the lust for May flowers and the resurgence of life in vibrant hues.

In a departure from our previous juried art exhibit, The Omer T. Lassonde, which was open to all New England artists, "Lush" serves as an equalizer, providing a platform for both longstanding and new artist members to showcase their exciting new artworks. Member exhibitions are a wonderful place to interact with the local art community. They are a reminder of the rich diversity of talent within our region and offer an opportunity for members to share their creative visions.

The exhibit will be showcased at the New Hampshire Art Association from May 1 to June 2. Join us for the opening reception on May 3 from 5 to 8 p.m. and an artist talk on May 18 from 2 to 4:30 p.m. Gallery hours are Tuesday through Thursday from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Friday and Saturday from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.; and Sunday from 12 to 5 p.m.

Prescott Park Arts Festival  announces return of ‘Pick Your Path Raffle’

Prescott Park Arts Festival announced the return of the much-anticipated Key Auto Group Pick Your Path Raffle, now in its third consecutive year.
Prescott Park Arts Festival announced the return of the much-anticipated Key Auto Group Pick Your Path Raffle, now in its third consecutive year.

PORTSMOUTH — Prescott Park Arts Festival  announces the return of the much-anticipated Key Auto Group Pick Your Path Raffle, now in its third consecutive year, in support of the Arts Festival's mission of accessibility and in celebration of its 50th anniversary season. This exciting initiative offers participants the chance to win a grand prize of $40,000 towards the vehicle of their choice from over 20 Key Auto dealerships or opt for a cash prize of $25,000.  The only thing the winner needs to handle are the taxes required by law. Raffle tickets only cost $20 each, or three for $50.

Tickets for the Pick Your Path Raffle are available for purchase on the Arts Festival’s website, at area Key Auto Dealerships, and at all Prescott Park Arts Festival events throughout the entire season. The drawing will take place at the final concert of the season, offering participants the chance to make a meaningful contribution to the arts while potentially winning an incredible prize. The winner does not need to be present to win.

For more information on the Pick Your Path Raffle and to purchase tickets, please visit the Festival’s websitewww.PrescottPark.org/Support-Us/Raffle.

Haley Art Gallery ‘In Awe of Nature’ group exhibit opens on April 27

Cove in Afternoon Light an oil on canvas by Barbara D’Antonio
Cove in Afternoon Light an oil on canvas by Barbara D’Antonio

KITTERY, Maine — In Awe of Nature  exhibit will open Haley Art Gallery’s 2024 season with an opening reception on Saturday, April 27, 1 to 3 p.m. The exhibit showcases works by seacoast artists Paul Burke, Barbara D'Antonio, Dean Diggins, Yuhuei Pierce and Alex Pikas (Prague), Anthony Montanino (California), and Carlos Vega (Massachusetts). The exhibit will remain on view through August 30. The Gallery will host an Artists Gallery Talk on Friday, May 10, 5:30 to 7 p.m.

Haley Art Gallery offers original art by local, national, and international artists–and a giftshop of globally sourced, social impact gifts, hand-made by women. Seacoast business owners, interior decorators and designers get special discounts on art purchases. Tea lovers can reserve a Victorian Tea-Time Art event for groups of four or more for $35 per person.

The Gallery is open: Thursdays – Saturdays, 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Contact: Haley Art Gallery at 617-584-2580 or haleygallery@comcast.net. Visit  https://haleyartgallery.com/ Follow on Facebook  @HaleyArtGallery  Instagram https://instagram.com/haleyartgallery/  Online Shop.

The Tall Ships are coming back to Portsmouth

PORTSMOUTH – Sail Portsmouth announces the return of the majestic Tall Ships to Portsmouth, N.H. This exciting event will kick off with a spectacular Parade of Sail on Friday, July 26, from 9 to 11:30 a.m., marking the beginning of several days filled with maritime adventure and exploration.

The Parade of Sail will feature an impressive lineup of vessels, including the renowned Barque Eagle, Ernestina-Morrissey, and Denis Sullivan, along with the iconic Gundalow, a Navy tug, the City fireboat, and a multitude of supporting and enthusiastic pleasure craft and fishing vessels. Local boat owners are also encouraged to join the Parade of Sail, gathering at the mouth of the Piscataqua that morning to be part of this grand maritime procession.

The heart of the event lies in the captivating Tall Ship Tours, scheduled for Saturday, July 27, and Sunday, July 28, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. each day at the Port of Portsmouth (555 Market Street). Visitors will have the extraordinary opportunity to step aboard these historic vessels, exploring their decks, meeting the crew, and delving into the rich maritime heritage they embody. Tours are free to the public, and visitors should expect to wait in line to board.

But the adventure doesn’t end there! For those yearning to experience the thrill of sailing the high seas themselves, Sail Portsmouth offers Tall Ship Sails from July 25-28. Whether you’re a seasoned sailor or a novice, these excursions promise unforgettable moments as you navigate the waters of the beautiful Atlantic Ocean aboard these magnificent ships. Find the full schedule and purchase tickets here: https://sailportsmouth.org/event/ocean-sails/.

For ticket information and to learn more about Sail Portsmouth, visit https://sailportsmouth.org.

This article originally appeared on Portsmouth Herald: Exhibits, galleries, theater and more: Seacoast arts and culture news