Sixty-five artists emerged from hibernation this past week to drop off a breathtaking array of artwork themed to what Mainers refer to as “stick season.” Their pieces are featured in the latest BRAF exhibit, “Wintering,” which will be on view until March 8 at the BRAF Gallery located at 1 Townsend Ave. in the heart of Boothbay Harbor.

All are warmly invited to join us for an artists reception on Saturday, Jan. 24 from 3:30 to 5:30 p.m. where light refreshments will be served along with a “Wintering” themed cocktail imagined by our friends from the “Neat” bar down the street.

In addition to the “Wintering” exhibit, BRAF is also offering opportunities for artists of all levels to work on their craft this winter in a relaxed, social setting.

Free “Open Studio” sessions take place every Sunday, weather permitting, from noon to 3 p.m. in BRAF’s upstairs Harbor Room Gallery. Bring your own art supplies. An RSVP is appreciated – but not required – by emailing wendybelkor@gmail.com.

Maine artist Sarah Wilde will host two “Artists Share” events, a constructive and collaborative get together where artists share their work for feedback designed to refine and focus the artist’s vision. The first “Artists Share” event happens on Wednesday, Jan. 28 from 1 to 2:30 p.m. with an additional session on Wednesday March 18, from 1 to 2:30 p.m. There is a $5 fee to participate.

“Drop in Drawing” is open to all levels – especially those who think they can’t draw. Bring your own drawing tools (graphite, colored pencils, pens, etc), paper or a sketchbook, and an object or photo as reference material. Hosted by Susanlora Morris, there will be warm up drawing exercises and discussion of materials and approaches. Two “Drop in Drawing” sessions are scheduled: Friday, Feb. 6 and Friday, Feb. 20 from 10 a.m. to noon. There is a $5 drop in fee.

Come “winter’ with BRAF. Take in our exhibits and enjoy the camaraderie of making art together. For more information, visit the BRAF website, boothbayartists.org, email us at brafgallery@gmail.com or just stop into the gallery.

About the Boothbay Region Art Foundation: For more than 60 years, the Boothbay Region Art Foundation has served as a cornerstone of artistic expression in the Midcoast Region. Our mission is to create opportunities for people of all ages to enjoy, learn from, and participate in the arts.