It’s easy to see how the rugged beauty of Portland stirs the imagination and inspires artists through the years. Winslow Homer and Andrew Wyeth created some of their best works in the Portland area. Homer’s studio, owned by his family, is still in the Portland area. Wyeth’s summer home is in Cushing. Uptown, a few blocks from the waterfront, Portland’s Arts District is a magnet for art galleries, antique shops, and artist studios. The Portland Museum of Art is housed in a contemporary structure designed by I.M. Pei. The museum houses a large collection of Winslow Homer’s paintings, drawings and prints. The Payson collection of Impressionist paintings by Renoir, Degas, Picasso and Van Gogh is also worth the visit.

Along Middle, Fore and Exchange streets, there are galleries galore. Greenhut Galleries span the art spectrum from abstract, realism, landscapes, still lifes and portraits. The Clown features a world class wine cellar and contemporary art gallery under one roof. Take home a piece of Maine from the Fore Street Gallery, showcasing original oil paintings and watercolors by local Maine artists and international artists specializing in Maine landscapes. For something different, check out the Stein Gallery featuring the work of over 120 American glass and jewelry artists or the Maine Potters Market’s large cooperative of pottery by local Maine artists. Viewing the abundance of local talent amidst the scenic beauty of the Portland area may inspire you to create your own Maine masterpiece.