Maine artist’s river banners on display in Gardiner

GARDINER — Artist Lisa Link, volunteers from Upstream and sponsor Trout Unlimited have brought Link’ public art project celebrating rivers, restoration and environmental advocacy in Maine to the Harrison Avenue Nature Trail in Gardiner for the spring run of alewives on Cobbossee Stream.

Volunteers from Upstream recently installed the 26 art banners designed to record and celebrate the restoration of the stream and Kennebec River as told by the people who made it happen. The exhibit also kicks off the celebration of 20th anniversary of the removal of Edwards Dam in Augusta and the revitalization of the Kennebec River.
Link was inspired by people, past and present, who worked to dramatically improve conditions for the Kennebec and other rivers in Maine and surrounding communities, according to a news release. She wanted to celebrate their stories and spark discussion of current environmental concerns. She photographed the river, interviewed people, and then chose quotes from those conversations and emails to highlight issues surrounding the clean-up of Maine’s rivers and streams.
The prints were first exhibited last year as -art of the Waterville Creates! 2018 public art installations. Trout Unlimited Kennebec Valley Chapter is sponsoring the Gardiner exhibit, which runs until June 1, when it will be moved to Steamboat Lane on the Gardiner waterfront.

TOP PHOTO: A banner at the Harrison Avenue Nature Trail, on Cobbosseecontee Stream, in Gardiner. explains the art installation of banners about the Kennebec River’s rebirth by artist Lisa Links. The installation will move to Waterfront Park in June. (Maureen Milliken photo)