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UNE welcomes 43rd U.S. President George W. Bush for exhibition of original artwork
The one-day exhibition of paintings by the former president raised funds for St. Ann’s Episcopal Church in Kennebunkport, near the Bush Family's summer home at Walker's Point
The University of New England held a special one-day exhibition of paintings by former President George W. Bush on Thursday, Aug. 6, in support of St. Ann’s Episcopal Church in Kennebunkport. The fundraiser was preceded by an evening gathering for members of the Bush family, invited guests, and friends of UNE, highlighted by a moderated discussion with the 43rd U.S. president.
Held in the Harold Alfond Forum, the exhibition featured a curated collection of President Bush’s original paintings and raised funds to support St. Ann’s “Preserving a Legacy” capital campaign, which aims to preserve the historic seaside church and protect its buildings and grounds for future generations.
UNE welcomed 43rd U.S. President George W. Bush to its Biddeford Campus on Aug. 5 for a moderated discussion as part of his exhibition, “The Artist President George W. Bush,” held in financial support of St. Ann’s Episcopal Church in Kennebunkport.
UNE President James Herbert welcomed President Bush and former First Lady Laura Bush by reflecting on the University’s longstanding friendship with the Bush family.
Herbert noted that UNE developed a close relationship with President George H. W. Bush and First Lady Barbara Bush during their later years, after the couple came to cherish interacting with the University’s students while traveling to Walker’s Point, the family’s summer home in nearby Kennebunkport. The Bush’s lasting impression on the University community ultimately led to the opening of The George and Barbara Bush Center on the Biddeford Campus in 2008.
A special display of artwork dedicated to the legacy of St. Ann’s Episcopal Church in Kennebunkport, painted by former President George W. Bush.
The center’s George and Barbara Bush Exhibit tells the story of the Bush family in Maine, George H. W. Bush’s presidential years, and the story of UNE’s connection with the Bush family. The Bush Legacy Collection includes memorabilia given to UNE by George and Barbara Bush and includes a replica of President Bush’s resolute desk
“The President and First Lady exemplified the commitment to public service that defined America’s Greatest Generation,” Herbert said, referring to the 41st First Family. “Leading by example, they dedicated their lives to others. They were role models in their time, just as they continue to be today. And we were proud to call them our friends.”
A pre-exhibition gathering on Aug. 5 brought together members of the Bush family and the St. Ann’s congregation, as well as dozens of invited guests, students, and friends of UNE.
Speaking to the younger President Bush and his family, Herbert extended that same warmth and hospitality.
“Mr. President, Madame First Lady: Please know you are always welcome here at UNE. And allow me to thank you for all you’ve done for our country and for southern Maine,” he said. “We’re lucky to have you.”
George W. Bush began painting after leaving office in 2009, creating a body of work that explores themes of faith, family, service, and reflection. The exhibition at UNE offered visitors the opportunity to view a large selection of his original artwork and the creative life he has built beyond public service.