Arts nonprofit to give public access to studios inside Rockland’s Lincoln Street Center

Rockland Welcomes Artists at Lincoln Street Center’s First Fall Open Studios

Rockland, Maine – On Saturday, October 17, the historic Lincoln Street Center, located at 24 Lincoln Street, opened its doors to the public for its inaugural Fall Open Studios event. The free gathering ran from 1:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. and offered residents and visitors a rare glimpse into the creative lives of more than forty local artists who call the former Rockland High School home.

The building, a National Register‑listed landmark that once housed the town’s high school, now functions as one of the country’s oldest community theaters and a thriving arts hub. Its walls have been transformed into vibrant studios where painters, photographers, musicians, and fiber artists work side by side, turning the space into a living gallery that showcases the breadth of Maine’s artistic talent.

A Night of Color, Sound, and Craft

The event was organized by Waterfall Arts, a Belfast‑based nonprofit dedicated to nurturing creative expression across the Mid‑Coast region. “We’re thrilled to launch the Lincoln Street Center’s Open Studios,” said a spokesperson for Waterfall Arts. “It’s a chance for the community to see firsthand how artists make their work and to experience the rich history of this building in a new way.”

Guests stepped into the studios of seven featured artists:

• Susan Beebe – A painter known for her bold, expressive canvases that capture Maine’s rugged landscape.
• Gianna Bird – A watercolorist who blends delicate washes with vibrant hues to explore natural themes.
• Gary Briechle – A photographer and painter who juxtaposes stark black‑and‑white imagery with richly saturated oils.
• Stan Farrell – A musician and inventor who creates experimental instruments and performs live during the event.
• Katherine Ferrier – A quilter and fiber artist who demonstrates hand‑loom techniques and the creation of textile narratives.
• Kathleen Florance – A painter whose work blends abstraction with intimate portraits.
• Laura Waller – An oil painter whose pieces explore light and shadow across varied subjects.

Each artist opened up their workspace, explaining their process and sharing stories behind their pieces. Visitors had the opportunity to view original works, ask questions, and discuss artistic approaches ranging from traditional painting to avant‑garde sound experiments.

A New Chapter for Lincoln Street Center

The Open Studios event also marked a significant milestone for the Lincoln Street Center itself. Waterfall Arts acquired the building on June 30 after a year‑long fundraising campaign spearheaded by a coalition of community members and arts organizations. The purchase secured the future of the center and ensured that the more than 40 active studios would remain available for artists to continue creating.

The acquisition was made possible through generous contributions from the Ellis Beauregard Foundation, the Lesher Family Foundation, and two anonymous donors. “The support we received from the community and these foundations underscores the value that the arts hold for the people of Rockland,” said a Waterfall Arts executive director.

With the center’s future secured, Waterfall Arts plans to expand programming, offer educational workshops, and preserve the historic theater as a venue for performances, exhibitions, and community events.

Logistics and Accessibility

Parking was available behind the building, and the main entrance was situated on the south side at the basement level, providing an accessible route for visitors with mobility challenges. The event itself was free to attend, making it a welcoming option for families, students, and anyone interested in exploring the arts.

Community Response

Local residents expressed enthusiasm for the new opportunity to engage with the city’s artists. “I’ve heard about the Lincoln Street Center for years, but it’s amazing to finally see the studios up close,” said longtime Rockland resident Maria Lopez. “It’s inspiring to see how this historic space is breathing new life and supporting so many creatives.”

Art students and seasoned professionals alike found the evening stimulating, with many noting the collaborative atmosphere and the chance to network with peers and mentors.

Looking Ahead

Waterfall Arts intends to hold the Open Studios event again in the coming months, inviting new artists and returning favorites. “We’re committed to ensuring that the Lincoln Street Center remains a dynamic, inclusive space for art and community,” the executive director reiterated. “The Fall Open Studios is just the beginning.”

For those unable to attend this year, Waterfall Arts encourages following their website and social media pages for future event announcements, virtual gallery tours, and updates on programming at the Lincoln Street Center.

As the Mid‑Coast region’s cultural landscape continues to grow, the collaboration between local artists, community donors, and Waterfall Arts exemplifies how collective effort can preserve historic landmarks while fostering artistic innovation. The Fall Open Studios proved that a single afternoon of shared creativity can spark lasting appreciation for the arts and the stories they tell.