AIO Food & Energy Assistance announces the names of artists participating in the 5th Annual ArtFeeds exhibition and online silent auction, taking place September 17-26, 2026 at Page Gallery in Camden. The event will showcase a collection of wooden bowls and platters shaped and donated by Maine State Correctional Facility’s industries program, and decorated by Maine artists. Each artist interprets sharing food and fighting food insecurity in their creative style on each bowl.

According to AIO, in a news release, more than $100,000 has been raised in the first four years the ArtFeeds event in support of AIO's six core programs: Food Market, Satellite Food Shelves, Energy Assistance, Weekend Meals, Home Delivery, and Diapers.

The exhibition will open on Thursday, Sept. 17, at Page Gallery, which is also Camden’s Thursday night art walk. The online silent auction also opens on September 17 and runs the length of the exhibition, culminating with a reception on Saturday, Sept. 26, from 4-7 p.m., at Page Gallery. The exhibition is free and open to the public.

“We don’t have to look farther than the gas pump to understand how what might be an inconvenience for some, forces others to make a choice ... says Alan Kearl, AIO Executive Director, in the news release. "Do I fill this prescription or get gas to drive to work? Do I get a full tank or forgo a meal? With the support of the Maine State Prison and Page Gallery, the artist community is addressing food insecurity with their amazing creativity and abundant talent. I invite you, the public, and the more than 35 participating artists this year, and help those in need.” 

2026 participating artists include Hannah Berta, Susie Brandt, Gideon Bok, Beth Bull, Sophie Cangelosi, Marsha Donahue, Carol Douglas, Dan Dowd, Ingrid Ellison, Melanie Essex, Hélène Farrar, Kathleen Florence, Linden Frederick, Brenda Free, Grace Hager, Stew Henderson, Alissa Hessler, Eric Hopkins, Rachel Houlihan, Alexis Iammarino, Emilie Stark-Menneg, Nathaniel Meyer, Tara Morin, Elizabeth O’Reilly, Colin Page, Jennifer Peppe, Nina Poole, Polly Ryel, Carol Sloane, Michael Stasiuk, Jay Stern, Karen Talbot, Simon van der Ven, Laura Waller. ArtFeeds has had participation from residents from the Maine State Correctional Facility and as well as local students and will again this year. Two high school students will participate, Chloe Egan and Ava Pease. 

AIO will share the artists’ creative process and artist statements on @aiofoodpantry (Instagram) and @AIOFoodpantry70 (Facebook).

Information about this year's artist's work and bidding instructions will be available on AIO's website starting September 10.

AIO Food & Energy Assistance is a non-profit organization dedicated to providing vital assistance to individuals and families in need. Through their four programs, including food, energy, weekend meals, and diaper assistance, AIO strives to alleviate the hardships faced by vulnerable community members. By fostering community engagement, collaboration, and support, AIO empowers individuals to achieve self-sufficiency and overcome adversities.