RFA reception for featured artist Wissman is July 2

RANGELEY — The Rangeley Friends of the Arts will host a reception for “Woods & Water,” featuring oil paintings by David Wissman, 5 to 6:30 p.m. Friday, July 2, at the Lakeside Contemporary Art Gallery, in the lobby of the RFA Lakeside Theater, 2492 Main St.
The reception will include snacks and a cash beer and wine bar. The exhibit will continue until Wednesday, July 28. The gallery is open 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. and the exhibition is free and open to the public.
Wissman said of his art, “My desire is to create an account of a heritage that so many hold dear while others have not had the opportunity to appreciate. Keeping this tradition and culture alive is at the heart of my work. I am inspired to capture those images that embody the simple way of hunting and fishing with family and friends; illustrating those bonds that we hold dear by way of oil on canvas.”
Wissman was awarded Best in Show at the 2020 Art in August in Oquossoc for “Cassair’s Gate.”
He started painting in high school, often at the expense of other classes, and had an immediate connection with oils, loving the smell and the ability to not have to rush the work. Recently he’s branched to other mediums: stained glass, ink drawing, design etc. “I love the solace of creating something that will evoke and endure long after I’m gone.”
He is a native of western Massachusetts and has a passion for the outdoors and athletics. He’s been an educator for more than 35 years and most recently coached football at Sacred Heart University in Fairfield, Conn., and the Universityof Massachussetts. He has been married for 34 years to his high school sweetheart, and has three sons.
He lives in southern Vermont and his work can be seen at the Vermont Artisans Gallery in Brattleboro, Vt., and at Blue Moon Artisans in Stowe, Vt.
For the RFA’s complete schedule of events and programs, visit rangeleyarts.org.

PHOTO: “Man’s Reach” oil painting by David Wissman.