| Master Painter John Stobart Premiers New Work at Discover Portsmouth |
NEW SHOALS EXHIBIT
Original paintings by celebrated maritime artist John Stobart will be on display in the upper gallery at Discover Portsmouth beginning June 1. These gorgeous oil paintings were specifically created by Mr. Stobart to complement the exhibit Under the Isles of Shoals that features artifacts recently unearthed on
Stobart’s new work will join a large display of Shoals’ photographs by Alexandra de Steiguer, Bruce Parsons, and Peter Randall. An opening free reception (RSVP suggested) with the artist will be held June 1 from 5-7pm and a gallery talk will follow on June 2 at 11am.
This new series of four Stobart paintings was created this past winter. Stobart made a trip to the Isles of Shoals last fall, and based his paintings on the sketches that he made during this trip. The work features familiar scenes including: Star Island Chapel and Smuttynose Cove. The paintings are on a smaller scale than the artist’s typical maritime work in order to ensure completion of all four paintings over the winter.

John Stobart is one of the world’s best living maritime painters. He was born in Leicester
Mr. Stobart had the idea for a special Shoals series after his work was exhibited at Discover Portsmouth last summer. He participated in the Maritime Portsmouth show containing over 200 Piscataqua-region paintings and items from the collection of the late philanthropist Joseph Sawtelle. Stobart’s painting of
The artist says he enjoyed the warm reception he received in
Those interested in attending the June 1 opening reception with the artist should RSVP by May 29. Space is limited. Send all requests to Discover Portsmouth program director Laura Calhoun at 603-436-8433. Mr. Stobart will also present a gallery talk about his new paintings at Discover Portsmouth the following day, June 2 at 11:00 am.
Limited edition, numbered prints of Stobart’s paintings will also be available for sale throughout the summer in the gift shop. Photographs in the upstairs gallery may also be purchased. Both the upstairs and downstairs exhibits are free to the public at