An untitled work by Elwyn George Gowen
Photo: Ogunquit Art Museum
From a press release
The Ogunquit Museum of American Art is appealing to the public for help gathering paintings by the late Elwyn George Gowen of Sanford for a major retrospective exhibit of the prolific artist’s work.
The exhibit, running from April to November 2027, will trace Gowen’s artistic journey from his early career as a designer in Boston to his pivotal years as a painter and teacher in Ogunquit. A key figure of the Ogunquit School of Art, Gowen (1895-1954) was a student and then co-teacher of the famed painter Charles Woodbury. Woodbury and Gowen influenced generations of artists with a distinctive style that blended modernism with the artistic traditions of the Maine coast.
Gowen concluded his career as artist in residence at Nasson College in Springvale.
To make this exhibition as complete as possible, curators are reaching out to the Sanford Springvale community.
“We know that Gowen was a prolific artist, and many of his works—paintings, drawings, and prints—are likely held in private collections, perhaps right here in his hometown,” said Ken Turino, co-curator of the exhibition. “We are particularly interested in locating pieces from all periods of his career to tell his full story. We have records of his studio contents, and we know there are many wonderful works out there that have not been seen by the public for years.”
The museum is asking anyone who owns artwork by Elwyn George Gowen or who may have documents, photographs, or personal stories about the artist to come forward. This is a unique opportunity for community members to contribute to the legacy of a local Sanford artist and ensure his contributions to American art are fully recognized, Turino said.
The Ogunquit Museum of American Art, located at 543 Shore Road in Ogunquit, is dedicated to celebrating and preserving the artistic heritage of the Ogunquit area. It’s open daily, 10 am to 5 pm, through Nov. 16.
For more information or to report a potential artwork, contact Ken Turino at ken.turino@gmail.com
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