Black Frame Art Sale Another Big Success

Art lovers flocked to the Black Frame Art Sale in droves on Sept 7 and 8. Lines
formed at each of the three participating Bayside
galleries ahead of the 5 p.m. Friday opening. A total
of 84 10x10 works priced at $200 each sold during the
2-day-only show. This raised $16,800, to be split
between the artists and the Bayside Neighborhood
Association, which uses the money to support its
children's art program and other community programs.

Works by John Knight, Marsha Donahue, Holly Ready,
Justin Richel, Matt Welch, Anastasia Wiegle, and Diane
Wienke sold out completely. Many other artists, such
as Otty Merrill and Caren-Marie Michel, had only one
work remaining. At the start of the show, collectors
rushed in to examine and quickly purchase the pieces
created by some of Maine's hottest contemporary
artists.

"The Greater Portland art community looks forward to
this yearly show," said Tom Blackburn, chair of the
Black Frame Art Sale Steering Committee. "It presents
An opportunity to acquire pieces by well-respected
artists at affordable prices. Artists enjoy the show
because it is a great way to generate exposure and
excitement for their work."

Fifty-six artists exhibited at this year's show, which
took place at 3fish Gallery, Grapheteria, and
Back Bay Tower. This was the fourth year the Bayside
Neighborhood Association has held the event. The next
show will take place in September 2008, at a date to
be announced. For more information, call 780-0915.

Generous support for the event was provided by
Portland Digital Printing & Copying, Grapheteria,
Gorham Savings Bank, Avesta Housing, Ocean Gate
Realty, InterMed, PowerPay, and Pizzagalli Construction
Company, with special thanks to WBRC Architects &
Engineers and Back Bay Tower.

-Avery Yale Kamila