River Arts in Damariscotta invites the public to the opening of the juried show, “Land and Sea,” on Saturday, May 29 from 1-4 p.m. This will be a modified reception, without the customary food and drink, but the event will be the first public reception since the move to Elm Street. This is an opportunity for artists and gallery friends to gather for conversation and art.

The exhibition, selected by contemporary artist Jane Dahmen, presents a bounty of striking landscapes and seascapes in a wide range of media. Works include pieces inspired by nature and interpreted personally by each artist embracing all aspects of expression from realism through abstraction and even a bit of whimsy. From a large variety of work by 132 submitting artists, Dahmen chose 97 pieces by 82 artists. “Land and Sea” will run until July 3.

After operating for several years as an all-volunteer organization, River Arts is pleased to introduce a newly hired gallery manager, Laurel Dodge. A naturalist and artist, Dodge offers glimpses into the hidden beauty of nature through her photography. Receiving her BA from Bowdoin College and MS from Antioch University, she was a naturalist instructor at the zoo in Brooklyn, New York, and several nature centers. She has written and illustrated a how-to book on teaching children about nature and has offered workshops on how to keep a naturalist’s sketchbook. Volunteering with River Arts since their move to the new downtown Damariscotta location, Dodge has thoroughly enjoyed meeting the community of Maine artists whose talent keeps the gallery vibrant.

River Arts is located at 36 Elm St. in Damariscotta. Gallery hours are Tuesday-Saturday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Visit the website riverartsme.org or call 563-6868 for more information.