A dozen influential Maine women in politics, the arts and other fields will be spotlighted in an exhibit opening this week in Ellsworth and running through Sept. 25.
“Twelve Maine Women: Portraits of Change” is a public art exhibit accompanied by a series of community programs celebrating the lives and contributions of female trailblazers.
Among those who will be featured are Frances Perkins, the first woman to serve in a presidential cabinet; historian Heather Cox Richardson; and U.S. Sen. Margaret Chase Smith, R-Maine, who died in 1995 at age 97.
The exhibit, to be held at the downtown Heart of Ellsworth Makerspace at 16 State St., will be presented by the Frances Perkins Center in Newcastle in partnership with Heart of Ellsworth and Americans Who Tell the Truth, a nonprofit.
Inspired by Robert Shetterly’s portraits, Americans Who Tell the Truth seeks to promote strong citizenship, positive change and the common good through the integration of art, history, education and civic engagement.
“The stories and legacies of these remarkable women continue to inspire thoughtful conversations about leadership, civic engagement and the power of individuals to create positive change,” said Amanda Hatch, executive director of the Frances Perkins Center.
Cara Romano, executive director of Heart of Ellsworth, said the town is the perfect home for an exhibition given its emergence as a place where art, history and community intersect.
“We’re proud to partner with Americans Who Tell the Truth and the Frances Perkins Center to bring these inspiring stories to our community and invite people to experience them in the heart of our historic downtown,” she added.
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The exhibit will also feature several public events designed to encourage discussion and community engagement, including an Aug. 11 panel discussion on how Maine women shape policy and community.
Gallery hours are Wednesdays from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., Fridays from 3 to 6 p.m. and Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Admission to the exhibit is free, and merchandise will be available for purchase.
