While the pandemic temporarily put a halt to activities for residents across Maine, in some cases it opened new doors. Musician and carpenter Scott Elliot turned his time without music gigs and other work into a time to explore painting and ever since has spent hours every day in his studio creating and selling much talked about works of art. The Opera House in Boothbay Harbor welcomes an exhibit of his most recent paintings this January.

An opening reception is slated for Thursday, Jan. 8 from 4 to 6 p.m. in the Opera House gallery upstairs at 86 Townsend Ave. Scott will be available to meet all who attend and looks forward to talking more about his art and the inspiration behind it. The historic upstairs bar will be open in conjunction with the reception.

While expanding his fan base as a painter, Scott may be best known as the long time bass player for The Boneheads, the Holy Mackerels and the Scotty River Trio – groups familiar to Midcoast music fans.

His art show will remain on exhibit through May, and will be open to the public Tuesdays-Fridays from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. and whenever the Opera House is open for a concert or event. Not coincidentally, the kick-off concert for the 2026 season is scheduled for Saturday, Jan. 10 at 7:30 p.m., featuring The Boneheads. The evening celebrates the 35th anniversary of the band, and will also be the album release party for their newest album "Still Kickin’."