A new exhibit bursting with vibrant color opens Monday, May 2 as part of The Art at The Damariscotta River Grill series. Compelling photographic flower studies by Lisa Mossel Vietze and dynamic oils and pastels by Mary Anne Carey compliment each other to make a strong statement of color and brilliance.

An opening to meet the artists and sample delicious appetizers by Rick Hirsch and his staff will be held on Wednesday, May 4, from 4-5:30 p.m. All artwork is for sale.

Carey is a self taught oil painter living in Cape Elizabeth. A former graphic artist, she now devotes her time to painting. Inspired by the Maine coast and landscape, she strives to capture everyday scenes with a fresh vision and energy.

“I find that living in Maine I am supplied with endless possibilities for paintings and am inspired by the colors and changing seasons,” Carey said. “I see intriguing studies every time I take a drive, whether down the street or up the coast. I love having my camera ready to record the many compositions and ideas I see around me."

Carey has attended workshops with local and nationally recognized artists and enters regional juried art shows.

Mossel Vietze is an accomplished photographer drawn to the subtleties of petal and stem, and creates intimate, powerful studies of flowers.

“I’m often in awe of the color, design or expression of form when I’m in the company of flowers. My search for beauty in my surroundings is much like my own search for the Divine,” said Mossel Vietze. “A flower is the plant’s highest potential and promise of a new generation, giving of its energy for creating seeds. For me, it’s verification that goodness does exist and how spirit is tangible.”

Damariscotta River Grill is located at 155 Main Street, Damariscotta.

For more about the show, contact Kim Traina at jumpstartcreative@gmail.com. For more on the restaurant, visit www.damariscottarivergrill.com.