Chris Augusta and Bruce Metrick have learned oil painting from very different sources and are joining their creative forces in an exhibition that promises to transport viewers to the heart of nature’s beauty. This special show features the works of the two artists whose distinct journeys have that taken their cues from the animal kingdom and the earth’s landscapes.

Chris Augusta has been guided by science all his life and is recognized for his depictions of animals and underwater creatures. Chris has collaborated extensively with scientists translating discoveries from field and sea into studies useful in illustrating an organism’s environment. From the delicate shimmer of butterfly wings to the enigmatic depths of the world’s oceans, his canvases capture the essence of life, inviting audiences to rediscover the planet’s biodiversity through keen observation and artistic mastery.

Chris writes: “I grew up in New England and spent many of my formative years along the coast. I studied drawing and painting from my father, George Augusta, a prominent portrait and landscape painter. I learned the importance of working directly from nature and that drawing and painting are a means to understanding how nature works and how we human beings see the world. Having worked on several occasions as a field biologist myself, I appreciate the value of close and systematic observation of nature. My working methods in the field often consist of extensive drawing and painting from life in the tradition of nineteenth century explorer naturalists. These include detailed studies of birds, insects, fish etc. Over the years I’ve been particularly interested in underwater life. I often snorkel or free dive and I’ve even developed my own crude methods for sketching and taking notes underwater. From these notes and other studies I often create more complex compositions”.

Bruce Metrick has been building up his skill to his craft of oil painting for over a decade. His work has blossomed into an exploration of wild spaces and the creatures that inhabit them.

Originally from small-town Pennsylvania, Bruce and his wife moved to Maine over twenty years ago. Early on, he enjoyed creating caricatures of sea creatures and other animals for his three grandchildren. As a trained engineer, it took several years of lessons from a local artist to reshape his drawing and painting style. Bruce draws his inspiration from the waters of the Friendship peninsula and the Maine woods. His scenes include sea and landscapes, loons and herons in their habitats, and a unique perspective of the forest. The setting sun and wintertime scenes are a favorite focus.

Bruce Metrick states: “These times bring forth a wonderful display of light, and hopefully, contemplation to inspire and capture the moment.”

Although their paths to the canvas have been unique, both artists share an unwavering commitment to portraying the wonders of the natural world. Visitors will journey from the world of underwater fauna, to sweeping vistas and animal portraits imbued with poetic energy. Beyond technique and tradition, what unites these painters is a shared passion for the subjects they paint.

Opening celebration: Friday, August 22, 5-7pm Hours on Saturday and Sunday, August 23 and 24 : 10 am to 4pm For more information, email: cushingaitb@gmail.com

Arts In The Barn website: https://artsinthebarncushing.org/

 Cushing Historical Society website: https://cushingmainehistoricalsociety.org/

 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ArtsintheBarn

 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/artsinthebarncushing/

The Arts In The Barn program is under the 501c3 statute for the Cushing Historical Society, and these programs benefit the Historical Society’s aims. We are a community supportive organization and have talks and presentations about the history, cultural heritage and persons of interest in our midcoast area.