First Friday moves to First Sunday ~ Hemphill Family

FIRST FRIDAY is postponed to FIRST SUNDAY ... Wintergreen is hosting the inspiring work of the Hemphill family in January. The artistic creations of Presque Isle natives Anne and Jeff Hemphill, their granddaughter Megan Hemphill, and Jeff’s late father Frank Hemphill will be featured in a unique family-style show. The opening reception is scheduled to be held on January 5, 2018, from 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm, during the First Friday Downtown Art Walk. Refreshments will be served and the evening event is free and open to the public. “I will have acrylic, watercolor, and colored pencil paintings on display,” said Anne Hemphill, local artist and renowned gardener. “Jeff will have leatherwork, and we plan to show some of his late father’s hand-carved and painted birds.” Anne and Jeff Hemphill’s granddaughter, 15-year-old Megan Hemphill, will show her Japanese anime drawings. All of the Hemphill family members featured in the January show are self-taught artists. “I was always fascinated by fine art, but classes through Wintergreen and the internet taught me basics,” said Anne. “It has only been the past couple of years that I took the time to put my skills to the test.” Anne added, “When Aroostook Shoe closed Jeff bought one of their leather sewing machines and leather from them. He taught himself how to use the machine and make patterns to create leather items.” “We are especially excited to have Anne, Jeff, and Megan as our featured artists in January,” said Dottie Hutchins, Wintergreen’s executive director. “Over the years, they have been regular volunteers and supporters of many of our programs here at Wintergreen. From rolling up their sleeves for cleaning projects and annual events, to Anne’s help with art classes, the Hemphills are a huge part of this Center. It is our privilege to share their artwork with others.”