Andrew Wyeth didn’t live to see 25th anniversary of Island Journal, but he would have undoubtedly perused it with the same sharp eye as he did the very first issue in 1984, one for which he and Betsy Wyeth provided funding. It has endured as a celebrated magazine of Maine island life, capturing the essence of these special places through essays, photography, poetry and art.
On Saturday, May 23, from 4:00 to 6:00 p.m., the public is welcome to raise a glass to “a man who loved islands” and to honor his memory as the Island Institute unveils this year’s expanded edition of Island Journal. The 2009 issue includes an exceptional folio of his work.
This event will follow a tribute to Andrew Wyeth at the Strand Theatre from 2:00 to 3:30 p.m., facilitated by Michael Komanecky, interim director and chief curator of the Farnsworth Art Museum, and featuring several of those who have known the Wyeth family well over the years: Peter Ralston, Warren Adelson, Bo Bartlett and Richard Merriman. Governor John Baldacci is also expected to make an appearance and a special announcement.
The forum is part of the Farnsworth’s Memorial Day weekend celebration of the life and work of Andrew Wyeth that includes a continuous showing of Wyeth documentaries, docent tours of the Wyeth exhibitions and the Olson House, the opening of the Farnsworth’s exhibition, “A Tribute to Andrew Wyeth,” and much more. For a complete schedule of events, please call the Farnsworth at 596-6457.