If it’s been a while (or forever) since your last trip to Sunapee Harbor, it’s past time to make a plan to change all that. The Harbor is definitely a hustling, bustling place—particularly during the 10-day Naturally New England show. Starting on July 11, The Livery will host this juried show of paintings, prints, stained glass, felting, and photography. The Center for the Arts (CFA) sponsors Naturally New England as well as a full docket of exhibits, lectures, readings, workshops, and classes throughout the year. This year marks the nonprofit’s 15-year anniversary.

More than 50 artists will show over 200 pieces at this year’s Naturally New England show. In keeping with the name, the exhibit presents New England landscapes and wildlife in multiple styles from stark realism to semiabstract. Rick Stockwell, a well-known local photographer, organizes the show. Rick is actively involved in CFA. Along with running Naturally New England, he co-chairs the Visual Arts Guild, organizes the bimonthly microgalleries, and facilitates critique groups. “Our goals within the guild are to create a dynamic artist community and provide ongoing opportunities and support.”

“We’re excited about this, our eighth Naturally New England show,” says Rick. “We are constantly working to improve the breadth, depth, and quality of the show.” Visitors will enjoy both longtime favorite artists as well as some newcomers. “We want to keep it fresh and new,” he says. All pieces are for sale and prices range from $75 for small pieces and prints to $2,500 and above. Rick says, “Art can be a wonderful memento of a special vacation or great day out and about. A good many purchases are made by people visiting the lake and surrounding area.” He adds, “Scenes of Sunapee sell particularly well with vacationers.”

More Than an Art Show

Dena Stahlheber, CFA executive director, says, “Naturally New England is more than a gallery show; it’s multiple events celebrating the arts and the Harbor.” The exhibition runs for 10 days and closes on July 20. CFA and their sponsors have organized several performances and parties to complement the exhibit, celebrate the arts, and draw attention to the Harbor’s natural beauty and lively summer fun.

The exhibit kicks off on Friday with a preview showing throughout the day. In the evening, neighboring Prospect Hill Antiques and Art Gallery will be hosting a preview party along with Hoptimystic Brewing. It is an excellent opportunity to meet some of the artists, browse Prospect Hill’s antiques and art, and enjoy delicious appetizers with a craft beer or glass of wine. 

“Not only does this event promise to be lots of fun but it will raise funds for the rapidly growing number of CFA programs for adults, children, and teens,” says Dena. After years of living virtually, CFA recently found a home on Main Street in New London. The space includes a gallery for ongoing displays and lectures plus a studio/classroom for educational programs. “Our new home expands the possibilities for classes and groups. We’re very excited and looking forward to broadening our program offerings,” says Dena. Tickets for the Preview Party and Fundraiser will be available online in advance and at the door. Dena encourages people to reserve their tickets early. “We don’t want anyone to miss out.”

Lots to See and Do

Saturday mornings are always a great time to visit the Harbor but July 12 will provide a double, make that triple, dose of fun. In addition to The Livery show, visitors can shop at the farmers’ market and then browse the tents at Arts in the Harbor. This one-day, outdoor juried show features an eclectic array of art and fine crafts. From photography to pottery, jewelry, fiber arts, and metal work, there is a wide range of styles and wares.

The opening reception for Naturally New England is Saturday evening. This event takes place at The Livery and is free and open to the public. “It’s an excellent chance to see the art, meet some of the artists, and reconnect with friends and neighbors after the long New Hampshire winter,” says Dena.

On Sunday, everyone is encouraged to return to the Harbor and surrounding area to catch some of the artists at work en plein air. It is a special experience to watch a painter’s process and technique in action. A map of the various artists’ locations will be provided and all works will be available for sale at the end of the day. 

On Sunday evening, the celebrations continue. CFA will be screening Jim Westphalen’s documentary film Vanish. This visually stunning film chronicles the rapidly disappearing rural landscape and way of life. His work shows a special affinity for the decaying barns and other agricultural structures found throughout rural America. This event is free and open to the public.

The final event tied to Naturally New England is Saturday evening, July 19 at The Livery. Behind the Lyrics: Discover the Stories Behind the Music is an evening of storytelling with singer/songwriters Tom Pirozolli, Click Horning, Grace Rapetti, and Colin Nevins. Each musician will explain their approach to songwriting, their process, and the inspiration behind specific songs that they will then share with the audience. If you haven’t already, take a moment before or after the event or during a break to admire the Naturally New England artwork. This event is free and open to the public.

Whether you visit during Arts Week or any week, be sure to drop by the many shops, sample the restaurants and snack bars, and enjoy a lazy day in the Harbor. 

July 11

Prospect Hill Antiques & Art Gallery 

Naturally New England

July 11–20

The Livery

Arts in the Harbor

July 12

centerfortheartsnh.org/cfaevents

En Plein Air Painting 

July 13

Various locations

July 13

The Livery

July 19

The Livery