ARTIST STATEMENT

The coast is the foundation for my work. Whether it be a remote finger of rugged shoreline or an out-of-the-way view on the working waterfront, I am deeply attracted to those places where the simple drama of time, light, and Mother Nature have come together to make their presence known. These are the necessary ingredients, yet ultimately my goal is to portray an atmosphere and an intangible moment where the viewer may wonder and interpret the image for themselves. It's like to trying to capture a glimpse of a view you might see out of the corner of your eye. I want to avoid portraying something people already know.

Professional Experience

Cooper Dragonette holds a B.F.A. from the University of Southern Maine and a B.A. from Prescott College where he spent part of his time drawing and exploring the Southwest. Cooper moved to Maine in 1996 while working as an instructor for the Hurricane Island Outward Bound School's Sea Program. He has maintained a studio since 1996 and has supplemented his various careers since 1998 through his painting. In 1998 he had his first exhibit of work at the newly established Hay Gallery in Portland, Maine and has continued to show throughout New England regularly. In 2006, Cooper has devoted himself to painting full-time. He continues to teach painting and drawing, as well as working with other artists through workshops, research and travel to further develop his work.

  • 2001-present Mt Ararat High School, Topsham, ME
    Painting and Drawing Teacher
    Foundations in Visual Arts Teacher
  • 2004 Provincetown Artists Association
  • 2003-present Midcoast Artists Association
    Co-president and Founder
  • 2001-present Maine Art Educators Association
    Member
  • 1994-present Hurricane Island Outward Bound School
    Instructor and Course Director

Recent Shows

  • 2006  Spring and Park Gallery, Portland, ME
  • 2005 The Clown, Portland, ME
    • Window Tree Gallery, Brunswick, ME
    • New Era Gallery, Vinalhaven, ME
  • 2004 Provincetown Arts Association, Provincetown, MA
    • University of Maine, Augusta, ME
  • 2003 Holbrook House Gallery, Wellfleet, MA
  • 2002 Abacus Gallery, Portland, ME
    • Provincetown Arts Association, Provincetown, MA
  • 2001 University of Southern Maine, Gorham, ME
  • 1998 Hay Gallery, Portland, ME

Collections and Commissions

  • Truro Vineyards, Truro, MA
  • Mr. and Mrs. R. Armstrong, NJ
  • Robert and Sarah Dwellley, Camden, ME
  • Mrs. P. Clark, Cave Creek, AZ