Art Inside & Outside

The dictionary definition of “interpretation” is an explanation of the meaning of another’s artistic or creative work; an elucidation; an interpretation of a poem. Artists Association of Nantucket (AAN) is hosting the exhibition Up for Interpretation in the Cecelia Joyce & Seward Johnson Gallery, 19 Washington Street beginning Friday, June 30 with a reception from 6 to 8 pm. “In this general-themed show, we have encouraged our artists to write a short statement about their inspiration for each of their pieces,” said Artists Association of Nantucket gallery manager Peter J. Greenhalgh. ” In this way, the viewer is given a chance to see the works in a more in-depth manner, and better understand the artist’s vision.” The show will continue through July 10.

The Solo Show Spotlight Artist during this exhibition is Mary Emery, who will discuss her work during a Spotlight Artist Talk on Saturday, July 1 at 10 am in the gallery, 19 Washington Street.

Also this Saturday from 10 am to 3 pm, the garden of the Nantucket Atheneum will be transformed into an outdoor art gallery. The Artists Association of Nantucket is hosting its annual Sidewalk Art Show in the dappled summer sun of this garden at 1 India Street. More than twenty AAN artist members will participate to discuss art and sell their works. The art show is free and open to the public.

Founded in 1930 by artist Maud Stumm, Nantucket’s Sidewalk Art Show is the oldest in the nation. Originally held for a few days in August, it was open to professionals and amateurs. “In 1960 AAN took the reins of the event and it is now one of our signature offerings and we are proud to be part of such a historic and popular island tradition,” said Cecil Barron Jensen, AAN executive director. “It predates the Artists Association by fifteen years.”

In her book, From Clotheslines to Canopies: A History of Outdoor Art Fairs in America, Kathleen Eaton states that, “the earliest art fairs of record in America that are still in operation began during the start of the Great Depression. The first, founded in 1930, was the Nantucket Sidewalk Art Show—a small local event based on similar street fairs found in Europe.”

“Still going strong eighty-seven years later, it is a great way to meet some of the island’s most popular artists, who are pleased to discuss their art and explain their work process,” said Robert Frazier, curator of exhibitions.