World Art Day in Mt. Washington Valley!

**It’s World Art Day! And even though we can’t have you physically here due to the COVID-19 Pandemic, we wanted to take you on a virtual art tour of some of the valley’s hotspots for artists! The businesses below are temporarily closed to visitors coming into the physical stores. Many offer online ordering and viewing.  Keep these galleries, restaurants, and shops in mind for an art tour when we’re able to invite you back to the Mt. Washington Valley.**

April 15th marks World Art Day!

A worldwide recognition that celebrates the international collaboration through art, World Art Day first came into inception by the International Association of Art. While the epicenter of this celebration resides in Los Angeles, the ripple effect of honoring art’s important place in society can be felt all the way in the mountains of Mt. Washington Valley!

Not only does the vast expanse of national forest and New England’s highest peak, Mount Washington, provide the ultimate illustration, it also acts as a muse for a community of artists.

The valley’s history is steeped in artistic works from artists hailing from cities such as Boston and New York. These artists would visit the valley for its endless well of inspiration, paint incredible landscapes and then bring them back to buyers in the cities from which they came.

The paintings were so unbelievable “Bostonians” and “New Yorkers” visited the valley in droves, just having to see the White Mountains for themselves. From there the vacation destination, known as the Mount Washington Valley took off!

Years later, the valley has curated a haven for artists. From oil to acrylic to sculpture to landscapes to abstract works of art, the walls of the White Mountain National Forest is home to a hub of creativity. Treasured pieces can be found in the forms of galleries, murals, installations, statues, antiques and more.

While the valley is currently under a “Stay-at-Home” order due to the COVID-19 crisis, we want to share some of the best places to go for an art tour for when you can finally visit the valley!

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1. Start in Conway!
   The Cassidy Gallery is a fine art and craft gallery and features the

   

   A peek inside Cassidy Gallery’s front door, in Conway, NH.

   work of over thirty fine artists and artisans from the Mount Washington Valley and New England. Offering high-quality framed original art by professional artists, many pieces depict local scenes.

   Macomber Glass Studio is a glass blowing and metal working studio, open to guests, by chance or by appointment. You can see Nathan blow glass, check out the small gallery, or see some of the works in progress. From January through April, you can also stop by the studio and learn how to blow your own glass ornament for $25.00!

2. 

   Artist Kristen Pobatschnig works on Tin Mountain’s 3-wall mural.

   Tin Mountain Conservation Center’s  Nature Learning Center
   Many programs out of its Nature Learning Center in Albany. This building is a work of art in itself,  utilizing local materials, including 20 species of wood all harvested in New England, most within 10 miles of the Center. Slate covering the lobby, kitchen, classroom and restroom floors was procured from Vermont. The art within the walls of the NLC, is just as impressive and includes natural displays, as well as a mural spanning three walls.

3. Take a Drive to Fryeburg!
   The Leura Hill Eastman Performing Arts Center is home to Fryeburg Academy’s own award-winning music and theater productions. As well as touring musical and theater groups. The LHEPAC is also home to the Pace Gallery which rotates featured art showcases. Each show is unique and evokes a wide range of emotion and presents an array of talent.
4. Head North to North Conway!
   Settlers Green features a walkable art exhibit featuring fourteen

   

   “Can We Talk” painting by Rebecca Klementovich. On of the featured pieces on Settler Green’s art tour.

   pieces of art. Each work in Settlers Green Public Art initiative reflects themes such as dance, community, the whimsical, mountains, granite and fashion. The outlet village has invested deeply into the art community, and is proud to feature artists from around New England, including three local artists.MWV Arts Association hosts a gallery at Norcross Circle in North Conway Village that art enthusiasts can visit. This non-profit also hosts the annual event “Art in the Park,” happening on Saturday, August 1, 2020 and Sunday, August 2, 2020 in Schouler Park right in North Conway Village. MWVAA members also showcase their art at The Met Coffeehouse in North Conway Village and Settlers Green.

   Frontside Coffee Roasters is a hometown favorite coffee house. You’ll immediately feel a relaxed vibe when you walk in. The friendly baristas, large windows letting bright light in and walls filled with art immediately invite you to sit back and chill. Frontside rotates featured art regularly, highlighting local and regional artists.

   

   Zeb’s Model A truck. A must-stop on Main Street in North Conway Village.

   Zeb’s General Store is the epitome of old New England charm. With the state’s longest candy-counter and two floors of New England made gifts and crafts, you’ll immediately be transported to the time of yesteryear. Not only does Zeb’s General Store radiate an old-time feel, it features a 1929 Model A Truck, parked outside the store. A must-stop on your art tour of Mt. Washington Valley!

   League of NH Craftsmen is a historical gallery, which features contemporary and traditional fine crafts by over 200 of NH’s finest artists and craftsmen. You can also take an array of classes there including pottery classes!

   The Met is a local hotspot with two locations, one in North Conway Village and one in Settlers Green. Both spots feature art from the members of the Mt. Washington Valley Arts Association. Enjoy works in the form of acrylic and oil paintings, photography and more.

5. Keep Going to Jackson!
   Jackson Art Studio and Gallery is a working studio where you can

   

   Jackson Art Studio and Gallery’s show-room.

   find working artists creating and demonstrating on weekends. Jackson Art Studio and Gallery is home to modern, eclectic and interesting works of art.

   The Wentworth – An Elegant Country Inn pays homage to its rich history of origin, where it was built as a wedding gift In 1869, by Joshua Trickey for his daughter Georgia Trickey’s marriage to her husband-to-be, General Marshall Wentworth. Historical books, documents, and scrapbooks are maintained in the inn. Something that makes the Wentworth even more special is that its home to paintings by traditional landscape painter, Erik Koeppel.

 

Inaugural First Season Online Auction to Support Tin Mountain Conservation Center

Online Auction 5:00 PM Sat. March 28 – 5:00 PM Sun. April 5

The clocks have moved forward, the birds are singing and the sap is flowing – all signs that it’s time for spring and Tin Mountain Conservation Center’s First Season event. In an effort to keep everyone safe and well and despite a few hiccups along the way, the Inaugural First Season Online Auction will ready for your bid beginning 5:00 PM on Saturday, March 28 (a date and time already on many calendars) through 5:00 PM on Sunday, April 5. The catalog is open and available for viewing (you don’t have to register to look at the catalog) at charityauction.bid/Firstseason2020 or through a link on the Tin Mountain Website at tinmountain.org. Registration is needed if you want to bid or purchase a scholarship. If you bought tickets online, AND have your code, you can use the code as your password.  If you don’t have the code, don’t worry, simply click “Forgot my Password” and follow the instruction.  If you didn’t buy tickets online, simply follow the instructions to register, enter your credit card (secure and encrypted), confirm your email and start bidding. Once you register, a ‘My Account’ tab will appear in the top menu.  This lets you keep track of your bids, donations, sponsorships, etc. Clicking an item enlarges the photo and provides additional information. There’s a box for a proxy bid, this lets you set your maximum bid and the system will automatically increase your bid until that maximum is reached.  If you have questions, please email info@tinmountain.org and we’ll get back to you as soon as we can.

This year’s online auction features colorful handmade quilts, exquisite jewelry, one-of-a-kind artwork, and photography, delicious treats as well as many useful and unique items as well as wonderful gift certificates.  You may want to mix and match items and gift certificates for example bid on the estate diamond and amethyst ring and the gift certificate for pastoral services for a wedding ceremony or combine the dental exam gift certificate with the cookie of the month or a delicious pie or creamy, fudge. Combine exquisite jewelry and a gift certificate for a night on the town with dinner and a show. For the outdoor enthusiast there are gift certificates for lift tickets, cross country ski passes, snowmobiling rentals, boat rides, whale watches and more.  For the music lover, there are four gift certificates for Stone Mountain and if you want to get a bird’s eye view of the White Mountains be sure to bid on the plane ride. There are antique handmade wooden canoe paddles, a complete kayak package and beautiful original artwork by local artists and photographers. Camp scholarships, Tin Mountain memberships and High School Scholarships are also available as “Buy it Now” items.

All proceeds from First Season support the ongoing environmental education, conservation and research programs offered by Tin Mountain throughout the year.  Auction proceeds support school and camp programs, the Nature Program Series, expand conservation and research programs, and provide computers, printers, as well as ‘keeping the lights on’ at the Nature Learning Center and Tin Mountain’s other facilities.

Thank you to all the thoughtful and generous donations from local businesses, residents, and sponsors that provide continued support for First Season and Tin Mountain Conservation Center.  Special thanks to our sponsors:  Lupine Pet, Eastern Propane & Oil, Chalmers Insurance, The Soaking Pot Infusion Spa, Mason & Mason Insurance, Green Thumb Farms, Country Consulting Group, Hastings Malia, Infinger Insurance, Green Mountain Furniture, Crest Auto, The Oxford House, Hart’s Restaurant, Hannafords, Varsity Beverages, Lindt Chocolate, Valley Auto, Fryeburg Academy, Fryeburg Fair, Conway Daily Sun, Outside Television, WMWV 93.5, Magic 104 FM, Easy 95.3, Valley Promotions, Northway Bank.

We’ll miss seeing and catching up with everyone during this year’s First Season and yet take comfort knowing that folks are following the health guidelines, staying home and practicing social distancing.  We hope you remain safe and well and look forward to seeing you on the trails and at the Nature Learning Center soon.

Winter Events in the Mt. Washington Valley!

The Wentworth Inn’s Annual Ice Sculpture Competition:  Three hours and a 300 pound hulk of ice. That’s what over a dozen national competitors have to work with when it comes to creating an award-winning ice sculpture. Over a dozen artists will use anything from a hammer and chisel to a chainsaw to create works of every kind. Watch as human beings, animals, abstract figures and more come to life from a hunk of ice through the vision of the sculptor.

The Wentworth Inn has been hosting the  Great Ice Carvers Invitational Ice Carving Competition for over 20 years and this should be the year you see it for yourself! Even if you can’t make the opening day, you can still enjoy the glazed glories out front for as long as they can withstand Mother Nature’s fickle temperatures!

LGBTQ Ski Weekend and Dance Party: Come to the White Mountains and celebrate equality! Ski all day with special lift ticket and lodging packages through Cranmore Inn. This promotion gives you access to the slopes of  Cranmore, Attitash or Wildcat Mountains. A Pride Dance Party follows, on Saturday January 4th at McGrath’s Tavern. Get the party started with DJ Disco Dungeon.

Night Dog Sledding Ride: Experience an authentic dog-sled ride through the White Mountain National Forest at Great Glen Trails. Partnering with Outlaw Ridge Sled Dogs, Great Glen Trails offers you the chance meet and greet the dog team, then take an intimate 4 mile tour on its trail system. Be sure to reserve a space as only three departures are scheduled.

Tin Mountain Conservation Center Youth Art Program: Junior nature artists are invited to join local artist and longtime teacher,  Deb Ayers, for a drawing class. Artists will spend the morning learning to draw the wonderful furry and feathery animals of our New Hampshire woodlands. Space is limited to so be sure to reserve a spot for the young artist in your life!

Learn to Line Dance at Zip’s Pub in Cranmore: Kick up your heels with Jen’s Friends Cancer Foundation and help this non-profit raise money for its cause.  Happening on Thursday, January 30th, enjoy a night of fun & Country Line Dancing. You’ll be led by an instructor, music will be playing and appetizers will be provided. Centerplate restaurant at Cranmore will be catering and beverages will be available for purchase at Zip’s Pub.

Meet The Artist Behind Macomber Glass Studio

Take a leisurely drive south on Route 153, and it won’t take long after leaving Conway Village to find a gem in Mt. Washington Valley Arts and Culture scene: The Macomber Glass Studio. Unmistakable due to its brightly colored barn door, the multi-colored mural provides more notoriety than the humble business sign hanging on a granite post at the end of the drive-way.

And that’s just the way artist and owner Nathan Macomber likes it.He isn’t looking for fame or fortune (any more than any other business owner), through his art. The main pillar behind his work is that he enjoys it.

Growing up, Macomber was always fascinated by stained glass. He loved the translucence of stained glass windows and how it threw light onto surfaces. He exercised this interest through classes as a young adult, but after attending a MassArt class on glassblowing wile visiting his sister who was a student at the college, he knew what he had to do.

While Macomber grew up in Vermont and spent summers and winters at his grandparent’s home in Conway, he took his tie to New England and stretched it to Prescott, Arizona. There he attended school and worked as an apprentice at a local glass-blowing studio. Armed with grit and determination to make his interest in glassblowing, real, he called all of the local artists he knew and offered himself as an assistant without pay. The artist that called him back became his teacher.

After six years of working his way from apprentice to professional artist Nathan felt the call of home. Spending childhood vacations on his grandparent’s farm in New Hampshire embedded the mystique and magic of the Mt. Washington Valley in his heart. When that same farm hit the real estate market,  he and his wife decided to buy it. (This also meant excavating the foundation of the historical farm. As young adults, and new entrepreneurs, diving this deeply into a renovation project before even opening the Macomber Glass Studio is amazing. It speaks to the belief Nathan had in the future of his studio and the talent he has to showcase in it.)

Now, seventeen years after purchasing the farm and the initial excavation, Nathan is blowing glass daily, featuring his works of art and showing in regional fairs. He and his wife are also carting their two children to baseball practice, tennis and swim lessons; as well as caring for chickens, harvesting for eggs, tending a vegetable garden and walking his dog.

Macomber Glass Studio features an array of anchor pieces from blown drinking glasses; to glass globes and ornaments; wall hangings; sculptures; door knobs and more. Nathan also books custom pieces for clients who have fallen in love with his work.

Regular store hours don’t really exist at the studio. If you’re interested in purchasing a piece just swing on by, knock on the door and Nathan will greet you. And if not Nathan, then Clemmie, the farm dog, will say hello first. From there, walk through his working studio into the gallery that is located in the original part of the barn; an intimate room, with lots of natural light and original  wood flooring.

His work rests on shelves, where you can either pick from his inventory or begin talks with him about custom colors and pieces he can create for you.

Beyond his studio work, a special service that Macomber Glass Studio offers is small group lessons. Perfect for groups of three to five people and lasting for up to four hours, Nathan will walk you through the glass blowing process and help you craft your own ornament and work your way up to plates or bowls.

These semi-private lessons are perfect for families looking to supplement their ski vacations with an off-slopes activity. It’s also a great option for art lovers or creatives that want to try something new or someone that just loves the idea of adventure and learning a new skill.

A concept even more novel than a glass-blowing class, are impromptu ornament lessons. From Thanksgiving through the spring, you can show up on weekends, without an appointment and for $40.00 Nathan will teach you to blow your own ornament. Sometimes he has a line of people waiting for a lesson, sometimes you’re the only person in the studio. It’s part of the fun and spontaneous nature of these lessons.

The Macomber Glass Studio is a hidden treasure in the Mt. Washington Valley Arts and Culture scene. It’s this exact quality that makes the experience of working in the studio and taking a piece of Nathan’s art home, so special. His dedication to his work and his passion for the art he creates stays with you. Especially when you’re drinking out of one of his custom blown glasses or admiring one of his wall hangings in your home.

Bring A Friend Shopping Event in North Conway, NH!

Get a head start on the holidays this season by joining in on the “Bring A Friend” shopping event in North Conway. Hosted by Settlers Green, “Bring A Friend” is the perfect girls getaway weekend, with shopping and dining at Settlers Green, strolling through quaint North Conway Village, and staying at one of dozens of nearby accommodations, all in the valley’s beautiful mountain setting.

Events in North Conway go above and beyond and “Bring a Friend” is no exception! With how well-rounded this shopping event is, one could argue that it needs its own space carved out on the holiday calendar. This event is the perfect outlet to get you ready for holiday celebrating. Enjoy spending a weekend with your best friends as you shop for great deals on hostess gifts for all of the holiday parties you might attend this season, Christmas gifts at great prices and something special for yourself as well!

Happening November 1st through November 11th, with a headlining weekend of November 8th through November 11th, this event will be buzzing with energy. During the week of November 1st through the 11th, shoppers can enjoy savings and special deals. As soon as the weekend hits, November 8th through the 11th, the event ramps up with giveaways, lodging and dining specials, special events and more.

You’ll need a wristband to access the special deals at Settlers Green and participating stores throughout the Valley. These can be purchased in one of two ways:

1. Win a Standard Shopping Bag.
   The standard bag giveaway begins at 8 a.m. on Saturday, November 9. There are 1500 available, given away for free! One bag includes a $500 shopping spree. Polypropylene tote bag includes a standard raffle ticket, free gift, and samples. All shoppers in line for a standard bag are also guaranteed a Bring A Friend Wristband, which unlocks deals at participating stores, restaurants and services at Settlers Green and participating partners around North Conway.
2.  

   If you don’t plan to be at Settlers Green for the free bag giveaway, you can still get a wristband, November 1-11 during the Bring A Friend Sales promotions. Wristbands are free and available at Customer Service.

   (Premium Shopping Bags are sold out.)

Three raffles will be going on as well, including the Premium Raffle Ticket, where you could win a Two-Night Stay for Four at the Residence Inn by Marriott for Bring A Friend 2020; the Standard Raffle Ticket with a prize of a $500 shopping spree at the REI Co-op; and the Traditional Free Raffle, where prizes range from gift cards to store product.

Special events happening throughout Settlers Green and participating businesses throughout the valley during the November 8 through 11th weekend include a scavenger hunt, Sip and Paint, caricature drawings, chocolate sampling, and more!

For a complete list of events and breakdown of the event, click here!

Settlers Green in North Conway, NH outdoes itself every year for the “Bring a Friend” Shopping event. This year is no exception! This event is the perfect way to spend time with your dear friends before the craze of the holiday season takes over. Spend this weekend enjoying special deals, delicious food, fun activities and creating treasured memories.

For a complete listing of North Conway events and Mt. Washington Valley happenings, click here.

Art as a Destination: Jackson Art Studio and Gallery.

Eight miles outside of North Conway Village, as you drive toward the majestic view of Mount Washington sits Jackson Village. This small town embodies so much of what makes New England charming: narrow, winding roads, scenic views, eclectic businesses, beautiful homes and small cafes. It’s the perfect hide-away to reconnect with all the things that matter the most to you. 

Only a fifteen minute drive from the heart of North Conway Village you’ll find a whimsical floral studio, bakery and cafe that has been featured in “Martha Stewart Living” more than once, a boutique salon, an Irish pub that boasts some of the best Buffalo Chicken Wings in the valley and more! Among these thriving businesses you’ll find Jackson Art Studio & Gallery, nestled at the top of Ridge Road. 

Jackson Art Studio & Gallery is a hybrid of an art gallery and working studio that offers group classes and more intimate, advanced curriculum as well. It’s a port for international artists to bring their craft to the small town of Jackson; bringing a taste of the world to this corner of New England. It’s an education center for fledgling artists; a place for expression for children and teens; an institute for seasoned artists looking to sharpen their already fine-tuned skills; and a hub to connect those that love art and those looking to add more of it to their lives.

The studio and gallery is led by bright colors; juried artists who can also be found working in the studio; large-scale, abstract paintings; photography; blown glass and more; all with a bright orange couch punctuating the shop’s decor. The space is inviting and luminous and offers a modern take on art that can be hard to find the further away from a city you travel. It’s a taste of metropolitan culture in a small, mountain town. Guests can shop for one-of-a-kind pieces, take a class or plan a more extensive, art-based vacation at Jackson Art Studio and Gallery.

Highlights of its upcoming 2019 calendar include a Palette Knife Technique class with award winning artist, Cynthia Rosen where the class focuses on intent, composition, use of color and technique. Students can also participate in the Introduction to Abstract Painting: Brushwork & Color with Rebecca Klementovich. Artists will create a successful abstract painting in acrylics by exploring innovative mark-making techniques, larger brushes, and color theory. 

Of course, Jackson Art Studio and Gallery’s Sip and Paint events color the studio’s event calendar with a fun and light-hearted evening where anyone can feel confident as an artist. Sip and Paints are relaxed and casual where the group works toward creating the featured painting of the evening. 

Art based vacations are quickly evolving into a main reason to visit the Mt. Washington Valley. Providing the basis for culture, relaxation, shopping, movement and excitement all at once, art as a destination is becoming Jackson Art Studio and Gallery’s focus. 

• You’ll find art retreats that couple together yoga, cuisine, wine tastings and workshops on the studio’s calendar and those are sure to fill up quickly.
• Regular art shows featuring new pieces, wine reception and a chance to meet the artist(s) are an excellent way to fill your vacation calendar too.
• Plein Air Series where students leave the four walls of the studio and paint in the great outdoors.
• All of these events and classes present the opportunity to mingle with locals and travelers who are all connected by their love of art.

And at its very essence, isn’t that what art is supposed to do: connect us all? We come to the Mt. Washington Valley to unplug and reconnect; with friends and family, nature, or with ourselves. The corners of Mt. Washington Valley, including Jackson Village, have amazing opportunities to discover a new way to vacation in the valley through art. For a complete list of galleries and one-of-a-kind shopping, click here. To view Jackson Art Studio and Gallery’s event and class calendar, click here.

 

Jackson Art Studio & Gallery

We love Jackson Art Studio and Gallery!

Not only do they offer great art classes for the curious, (just don’t step on a deer like our writer did) but they showcase some of the best artists of the valley.

Just recently, we attended an art opening for local artists like Melanie Leavitt and June McLeavey, who showed off their best work at this beautiful gallery. Not only was it truly amazing to see such a breadth of work… but it’s a great way to meet up with our artist friends and get in touch with the Valley’s artist community.

Check them out online for a calendar of upcoming shows, classes or demonstrations!

Visit Tuckerman Brewing Company for music, friends and beer!

By Isaac Rader
for the Mt. Washington Valley Chamber of Commerce

Just recently we visited Tuckerman Brewing Company to enjoy the  band Dark Train Express. The atmosphere is very comfortable with picnic tables, cornhole games and, of course, their great local beer. Personally, we really like the Rockpile IPA.

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Starting in 2015 Tuckerman Brewing Company has hosted a concert series and each summer they have some of the top regional acts entertaining the crowd outside under the tent in warm weather. And every Saturday they feature great local musicians in their Tasting Room.

Check out their event calendar for future tasting room and concert events. The brewery is also available for private parties, rehearsal dinners and birthday parties.

Next up – 21st Birthday Bash! The brewery turns legal!
January 19th, 2019
Doors open at 7:00
This is a 21+ show (legal ID required)

Photo Credit – Shem Roose

Band: Kat Wright Band plays from 8-10pm
Cover Charge: $15
Food Provided by: Magic Foods Catering

Limited tickets are available online or can be purchased in the Tasting Room during regular business hours.

For more information >

 

M&D Playhouse presents Sweeney Todd

Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street is a play that is… everything. It’s a thriller, it’s horror, it’s comedic, it’s all these things and more, on a truly amazing set.

Sweeney Todd, an unjustly exiled barber, returns to nineteenth century London, seeking vengeance against the lecherous judge who framed him and ravaged his young wife. The road to revenge leads Todd to Mrs. Lovett, a resourceful proprietress of a failing pie shop, above which, he opens a new barber practice. Mrs. Lovett’s luck sharply shifts when Todd’s thirst for blood inspires the integration of an ingredient into her meat pies that has the people of London lining up… and the carnage has only just begun!

Go see this as soon as possible! Don’t “shave” it for later! Show dates are Thursday, Friday and Saturday at 7:00 and Sunday at 4:00 through July 8 at M&D Playhouse, 1857 White Mountain Highway, North Conway.

A rich history in Mt. Washington Valley

One of the greatest things about MWV history is that it can always get weirder – for example, Mount Washington had a secret ski area once! But that’s part of the fun of attending lectures like this one at The Salyards, on National Forests. That, and the sense of community!

Who loves to read?

If you love to read you should attend the White Birch Books and North Conway Public Library’s author luncheons! It’s a great way to enjoy a book, be with friends, and talk with the author. Sea Dog Brewery recently hosted Meghan Weir, and her novel: the Book Of Essie. It’s always fascinating to hear about the creative process!

Mountain Film on Tour

What a treat to see Mountainfilm on Tour at the Fryeburg PAC. Films almost too fantastical to be real – but too gripping to be anything but. We viewed striking visions of Alaska, a skier rushes through icy crevices and tunnels and a crippled man climbing a rock formation.

Mountainfilm on Tour travels year-round and worldwide with a selection of short documentary films from the most recent, annual festival in Telluride. See this tour, if you can.