Students Tom Whalen (left to right) and Joyce Stinchfield, and artist/instructor Stan Keirstead, in the Keirstead Studio. FARMINGTON — SugarWood Gallery in Farmington has announced that its "Artist of the Month," Stan and Barbara Keirstead of Farmington. An Open House to introduce their work will be held Friday, Dec. 12 from 4 to 7 p.m. and Saturday, Dec. 13 from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. The public is invited to meet Stan and Barbara who will be present to discuss their work. Refreshments will be served.

For the past 28 years, this Farmington couple has shared their interest in art. Both started painting in oils but have found watercolors to be their medium of choice when depicting favorite Maine scenes. Together they have participated in sidewalk shows and exhibited in many Galleries. Their work is currently on exhibit at FAME in Augusta. Their home gallery is open to the public by appointment.

An educator by training, Stan served as principal at Mt. Blue High School for 18 years. After retiring in 1983 he has been able to devote more time to painting. A selftaught artist, his technique has developed over the years. He has continued his love of education and conducts watercolor classes at their home studio on Monday and Wednesday evenings and Tuesday afternoons. Traditional framing is also offered.

Barbara has worked in the medical and dental fields and still enjoys working part time in the office of Dr. Richard Sewall.

Both are active members of UpCountry Artists and have organized the group's annual show at Sugarloaf for 15 years.

Travel to Europe has been a favorite experience for this couple and has afforded them the opportunity to view first hand renowned masterpieces in London, Edinburgh, Amsterdam, Stockholm, Vienna, Rome and Florence.

SugarWood Gallery is located at 248 Broadway in Farmington. Hours are Monday thru Friday 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., Saturday and Sunday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

For more information, call 491-8635 cell or 778-9105 or email dmaxham@beeline-online.net.