SACAP: the artists’ outlet … looking for executive director

16 years ago

ImageBy Karen Donato
Staff Writer

    Located at 66 Main Street, tucked in between Pet Hollywood and The Vault Restaurant, you will find a haven of artistic items for sale or on display at Visions. The shop is an extension of the Southern Aroostook Cultural Arts project more commonly referred to as SACAP.
    SACAP was organized in 1999 by a group of local residents to help the arts flourish in the southern part of Aroostook. Prior to the opening of their store on Main Street, this non-profit group published an art directory listing local artists, artisans, cultural organizations and annual events. In 2002, they produced events to showcase local artists in order to raise funds to continue their work.
    Then in 2004, they rented a storefront and opened the shop, gallery and resource center for the arts. Their inventory encompasses the fine arts, folk arts, traditional arts, historic arts, performing arts and contemporary crafts.
    Visions has become the locale for purchasing that special gift unlike those mass-produced items offered by department stores. It is a place to view and purchase local artists’ works, whether it is a painting, photography, jewelry, pottery, woodcrafts, ceramics, fiber art, wearable art, sculpture or music, Visions offers it all under one roof. One can find unique gifts designed or created by local artisans from the very young to the more senior.
ImageHoulton Pioneer Times Photo Karen Donato
ART BEYOND THE DOOR — A multitude of artistic items are on display or for sale inside the Main Street store, Visions. Stop by and see the many handcrafted items including; jewelry, ornaments, hats, shawls, knit items, cards, photographs and paintings.

    Another important feature included within Visions is the Blue Moon Gallery, which showcases student’s work and offers guest appearances by professional artists skilled in many art forms. Exhibits are on display for six to eight weeks at a time.
    SACAP has produced local events including Arts Around the Square and worked with other organizations and businesses to bring quality arts experiences such as the Temple Theatre, Shiretown Film Festival and the Penobscot Theatre productions.
    “Arts Around the Square” is a popular outdoor interactive arts festival featuring musicians and other performers in the amphitheatre in Monument Park and in Market Square. This is a way to engage the public by offering an on-site experience in the creation of art.
    The executive committee will host a St. Patrick’s Pot O’Gold dinner at the Elks Club, Saturday, March 14. Advanced tickets are available for $20 each at Visions, Aroostook Milling and Heart to Heart Gift Shop. Ann Callnan and Jane Torres will be preparing a delectable Irish menu. Irish music will add to the festivities. All proceeds will benefit SACAP.
    On March 21, Vision’s will be celebrating their Spring Opening with new hours and on Friday, April 3, there will be a Student Art Show at the store with a parent reception to showcase the event. The art display will include student works from the local area schools, as well as home-schooled children.
    At this time SACAP’s executive committee is searching for a new executive director to maintain the goals already in place and continue their vision of creating an exciting cultural environment and a voice for art and artists in the greater Houlton community.
    If you have an interest in the arts, are a good organizer, follow through with commitments this may be the job for you. For more information contact Audrey Zimmerman at 532-9119 or Bob Cowperthwaite at 532-9514. Current store hours are 1 p.m. until 5 on Thursdays and Fridays.
    Visit the SACAP Web site at: www.sacap.us for more information and to purchase tickets for the raffle.