About Archipelago
Supporting the Creative Economy
Maine has long been known for its ability to inspire artists, and the islands of the Gulf of Maine have been particularly associated with the production of fine arts and crafts. Archipelago, the Island Institute store and gallery, supports and showcases Maine artists and makers whose work reflects and promotes the beauty and endurance of Maine’s islands and coast.
Since opening in 2000, Archipelago has helped advance the careers of more than 1,500 Maine artists and returned more than $2.5 million in commission sales to Maine’s artists and makers, providing an important component of the Institute’s work to sustain the economic viability of these special places by diversifying local economies.
Archipelago also organizes the annual Artists and Makers Conference and provides mentoring to coastal artists.
Shop Archipelago and you will find delightfully special and one-of-a-kind items. You’ll also be helping to support one of Maine's greatest natural assets: its island and working waterfront communities.
Remember, Archipelago is ever-changing, just like the seasons of Maine.
Retail Store Hours
Wednesday - Sturday: 10:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.
Website
In the Gallery
"20 Miles" through September 27, 2020
With our next gallery show, Archipelago is not only celebrating Maine's Bicentennial and our own 20th anniversary, but the beauty, strength, and character of Maine's working waterfronts. "20 Miles" features the works of Susan Tobey White and her series of women working on Maine's waterfronts. Other artists include Abe Goodale, Andre Benoit, Val Aponik and Laurel Averill.
For centuries Maine’s working waterfronts have served as the critical connection between communities and the sea. They have helped craft our state’s sense of identity and reflect the bold and determined character of the men and women who work on the water each day. From shipbuilding to shipping and aquaculture to lobstering, these iconic places scattered along our coast ignite in us a feeling that connects to something deeper and a way of life where one person, a boat, and a place to land it can craft a deep and sustaining connection for their community.
This show can be seen in the Gallery through September 27th. Hours are Wednesday - Saturday 10 - 4.
To learn more about the artists and work featured in “20 Miles," visit the gallery page of the Archipelago website.
To view select images and receive gallery updates, follow us on Facebook!
Recognition
Archipelago featured in Best Cultural Destinations, August 2020
"Guide to Best Things To Do In Maine: Mid-Coast & Down East"
Thanks to Best Cultural Destinations for including us in their profile of the best things to do in midcoast and downeast Maine. Read more here.
Archipelago named 'Best Made-in-Maine Shop' by Yankee Magazine!
Archipelago, the Island Institute's store and gallery, has received the 2019 Editors' Choice Award for "Best Made-in-Maine Shop" from Yankee Magazine! Thank you editors of Yankee for recognizing Maine's wonderful artists and makers as well as the amazing staff who make it all happen. Be sure to visit us in person or online to check out some of the our great, locally made items. Read more here
