“Bigelow Peaks” at Sunset by Melanie Farmer. FARMINGTON — SugarWood Gallery in downtown Farmington will host local artist Melanie Farmer at an Open House Reception Friday, Nov. 6, 2009 from 4 to 7 p.m.

Farmer has been painting and drawing since she was a very young child growing up on a small farm in the western shadow of Mt. Spec, with the attention of a very competent teacher in a one-room school house. She paints the length and breadth of the State of Maine, the countryside that she knows and loves best. In the years of her youth, it was a peaceful escape from the hectic life of a large family.

Farmer now lives on the shore of a very pristine, quiet and peaceful pond in Western Maine where wildlife abounds. This provides a wonderful inspiration for many of her paintings, from sunsets, night scenes, water scenes, an occasional fisherman passing by or her own gardens.

Viewers will see her paintings changing with the seasons and events but always reflecting the flavor of her beloved state of Maine, now or in the historic past. According to gallery staff, her paintings will remind you of places you have been and some of the special times you may have experienced in Maine, whether native or visitor.

Collectors of Farmer’s work include many prominent names in Maine. One has most of her well-known collection on loan to the Portland Museum of Art. Many doctors, judges and lawyers are enjoying her paintings in their homes, camps, condos and offices. Familiar paintings of hers can be found around town, such as the large mural in Franklin Savings Bank in Farmington.

Her recent oil paintings are done primarily on gessoed panel. She often uses only a palette knife to apply the paint, which gives a sculptural texture to the painting. Her watercolors are spontaneous, yet bold.

Farmer’s work will remain on exhibit for the month of November and will be available for sale to the public. SugarWood is open Monday thru Friday from 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.; Saturday and Sunday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

For more information, call SugarWood Gallery at 778-9105.