Any time you want some art in Portland, just put on your art shoes and hoof it to your nearest studio/gallery and see (buy) just what the locals are making--it's superb! For 10 summers in a row, the Society for East End Arts (SEEA) has hosted us in their studios/galleries and homes for the Open Studios Tour and Art Sale on Munjoy Hill. Yes, their homes.  This past Sunday was #10. You get a brochure with a map and head out.

There are several artistic spaces in store-fronts on the Hill.  But, some or most are three stories up narrow stairways, some with beautiful yards and gardens; work spaces double as kitchens and living rooms, some with friendly dogs roaming from room to room--and all  the art is home grown.

A Shaded Art Spot
A Shaded Art Spot
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If you've spent some time in Portland, you know the type of artist varies greatly, here--lots of painters, sculptors, print-makers, jewelry, and stained glass artists...the full boat. And, this past Sunday, they were ready for us: displaying their best works--painters pallets of vibrant greens and reds, silversmiths, hanging art made from cast-off pieces of glass, metal and crockery.  Imagination was open for business.

Just Keep Walking...You'll Find It
Just Keep Walking...You'll Find It
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wcyy.com
wcyy.com
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What I found most interesting during this Tour on the Hill, is the response to this question: "Are you making it as an artist in Portland?" Without fail, the dozen or so artists I met said, "Yes".  All have a need to create, and, with work, have made a go of it.  All of them, too, told me that it took awhile, but it did happen--thanks in huge part to the people of Portland and our visitors. Humble, refined and damn good!

Breakfast is served...now pass the paint, please
Breakfast is served...now pass the paint, please
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