The Boothbay Harbor Memorial Library’s June Artist of the Month is Brad Betts of Down East Gallery, East Boothbay. His nautically themed artwork will be on display June 2-27.

Betts has been an artist for over 20 years and is a Signature Member of the American Society of Marine Artists (ASMA). His paintings have appeared in solo and group shows throughout New England, including the Mystic Seaport Gallery’s acclaimed “International Marine Art Exhibition” for the past seven years. In 2006, he received the “Maritime Gallery Yachting Award” at this exhibition and in 2008, was recognized as one of “Four Distinguished Artists” at the Mystic Seaport Gallery.

In 2011, Betts’ maritime painting “Cup Challenge” was selected by internationally renowned author Ferenc Maté for the cover of “Sea of Lost Dreams,” the second book in the Dugger/Nello series. He is currently working on a book cover for Maté’s first book in the series, “Ghost Sea.”

Betts’ inspiration to paint all things nautical is an outgrowth of his youth, which he spent around the Gulf coast waters, deep sea fishing and sailing. Today, his paintings reflect his lifelong appreciation of the sea.

His work is filled with movement: schooners under full sail battle through wind-driven seas and Friendship sloops gliding through the calm waters of Maine’s inlets. The classic Betts oil painting is a summer day in Maine: blue skies, billowing sails and shimmering seas.

In 2007, Brad and his wife, Danielle, made the decision to move to East Boothbay, a beautiful seaside village famous for boat building. Living in an area with a rich maritime history and active working harbor offers him the opportunity to connect daily with classic scenes that most inspire him.

Betts has achieved his mastery of maritime painting through a blend of both technical discipline in the studio and a focused effort to retain his natural, inspired style, which he seeks this through painting plein air.

“When you paint outside, the light and conditions change constantly. This forces you to simplify your decisions and rely completely on practiced techniques and natural instincts,” Betts said. “In these moments, you connect most with yourself as an artist and the energy that comes from within.”

For more on this artist, visit https://downeastgallery.wordpress.com.

The Boothbay Harbor Memorial Library is located at 4 Oak Street, Boothbay Harbor.