After years as a graphic designer in the corporate world and having an extremely successful craftsman business in Maine, John Otterbein pivoted and began painting whatever he felt like creating having only himself to answer to. He’s a fine painter and his small watercolors could hold up on a wall next to Winslow Homer but he’s been pulled in another direction.

His creations are absurd and downright silly. I’m not sure it was his intention to make people smile but he’s good at that too. His paintings are funny, sensitive and a joy to look at. Every moment something else come to light rendering an entirely different aspect of his creations. Every time we smile we  feel younger!

Obberbein has lived in Bremen on Biscay Pond for decades. His studio is in his home by the Pons but his Universe where he draws his inspirations is vast  

The exhibit of recent paintings by Obberbein will be featured at Gold/Smith Gallery, 8 McKown Street,  Boothbay Harbor from Sept. 9 through Oct. 25. There is a reception for John and his new one-man exhibition at the gallery Saturday, Sept. 12 from 4 to 6 p.m. The public is invited to come meet the artist, have some refreshments and enjoy his terrific creations.

For more information the Gold/Smith Gallery: 207-633-6252 or www.goldsmithgallery.net. The gallery is open every day 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.