Biddeford Campus Center now showcasing paintings by alum Joanne Maloney

On display now at the UNE Campus Center in Biddeford are works by local artist and UNE alum Joanne Maloney, M.S.Ed. ’08. The exhibit, titled “Simple Gifts,” will run through Nov. 27, and an opening reception will be held at the Campus Center from 4 to 5:30 p.m. on Friday, Nov. 3.

The exhibit's theme is inspired by the artist's connection to coastal Maine and includes landscapes and still lifes of shell collections.

Maloney’s journey in art includes over 40 years of teaching students from kindergarten to adults, including as an adjunct professor of art methods at UNE.

The artist — who holds a dual bachelor’s degree in art and biology from the University of Maine — said she has always found interest in science and nature, at one time considering a career in medical illustration. She often integrated science in her teaching curriculum, using Audubon taxidermist models in her drawing classes.

Maloney received a fellowship to study ancient mosaics in Ravenna, Italy, and has created many public mosaic murals in school and locally, including the “Salmon Run” mosaic in downtown Biddeford’s Shevenell Park. Her master’s degree in education from UNE emphasized the connection between art and the writing process.

Maloney said she hopes her exhibit will inspire people to look more closely at the beauty of the “simple gifts” of nature in our state.

The Campus Center is located at 11 Hills Beach Road, Biddeford. Hours for the academic year are Monday through Friday, 6 a.m. to 11 p.m., and Saturdays and Sundays from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m.