River Arts is delighted to showcase the artwork of John Otterbein in a solo show, The Whimsical Side, in the River Room at River Arts Gallery. Known for his imaginative and whimsical approach, The Whimsical Side celebrates Otterbein’s playful humor and use of vibrant colors.  Meet the artist at an opening reception on Saturday, April 26 from 2-4 pm. 

Otterbein holds a degree in graphic design and photography from Arizona State University and spent many years as an art director and designer, specializing in flexographic printings for major corporations. Upon moving to Maine, Otterbein founded the Wooden Screen Door Company in Waldoboro, where he produced over 17,000 custom-made screen doors. After selling his business, Otterbein rekindled his passion for painting and was influenced by his admiration for Gary Larson’s “Far Side” cartoons. Otterbein studied watercolor under Grif Teller, a well-known painter of Pennsylvania Railroad scenes, and later with Maine artist Erica Qualey, who helped reignite his interest in watercolors.

location: River Arts, 36 Elm St., Damariscotta, ME.  Gallery hours are Tuesday through Saturday,10am to 4pm.  FMI: 563-6868 or email info@riverartsme.org.

image: artwork by John Otterbein