2016 CMCA Biennial, Winter 2016-17, Guy D. Hughes Gallery
1 / 10

Center for Maine Contemporary Art (CMCA)

4.5
·119 reviews·Rockland, United States

Intimate space showcasing cutting-edge installations & paintings by Maine's contemporary artists. A vibrant cultural hub.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

First Fridays

Free admission & music

CrowdMedium
Loading map...
2016 CMCA Biennial, Winter 2016-17, Guy D. Hughes Gallery

Center for Maine Contemporary Art (CMCA)

Best Time

First Fridays

Free admission & music

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Intimate space showcasing cutting-edge installations & paintings by Maine's contemporary artists. A vibrant cultural hub.

4.5
(119 reviews)

"This is a fascinating facility. Their exhibits are fantastic. They push the envelope."

Vertical photo
TIP

Check Exhibit Schedule

Exhibits rotate! See what's on before you go to maximize your visit.

Free First Fridays

Enjoy free admission and music on the first Friday of the month. :musical_note:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Cutting-Edge Exhibitions

Cutting-Edge Exhibitions

Experience bold, contemporary installations and paintings from talented Maine artists. Pushing artistic boundaries.

Artist Spotlights

Artist Spotlights

Discover portraits of artists like Eric Hopkins, offering a glimpse into their creative process and journey.

Family Art Activities

Family Art Activities

Engaging workshops for kids, often inspired by current exhibits, making art accessible and fun for all ages.

Your AI travel agent

Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you

Start Chatting

Planning Your Visit

Timing is Everything

While CMCA is intimate, exhibits change. Check their schedule online to catch the latest contemporary art installations and paintings by Maine artists. Weekends can be busier, especially during special events or workshops.

Embrace the Art Scene

CMCA is a hub for cutting-edge art in Midcoast Maine. Don't expect vast halls; instead, immerse yourself in thought-provoking pieces. It's a great complement to other Rockland attractions like the Farnsworth Art Museum.

Best Times

When
First Fridays
Why
Free admission & music
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekday afternoons
Why
Fewer crowds, more reflection
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

This Maine Roadtrip to find the Incardi $1 Art Prints was way too much fun, one thing that i live was that i got to explore places and shops i never would have stopped at otherwise, what a fun way to see explore new places! Plus, at the end of the day I have cute little momentos from my trip for a total of just $6 💙 Highly recommend! #portland #portlandmaine #maine #thingstodo #hiddengems #shoploc...
@brit_duffy
19.1K likes • 189.8K views

Check Exhibit Schedule

Exhibits rotate! See what's on before you go to maximize your visit. Instagram

Free First Fridays

Enjoy free admission and music on the first Friday of the month. :musical_note: Reddit

I taught a concrete design workshop at the Haystack Mountain School of Craft on a little island in Maine!
@benuyeda
14K likes • 151.7K views
✨ Art, elegance and fun for a great cause✨ Had a wonderful evening at the Center for Maine Contemporary Art’s annual Art Party – celebrating and fundraising for all this incredible organisation does to keep creativity alive and thriving here in Midcoast Maine. Mary Lynn‘s coordinating of her outfit with the main exhibit was serendipitous! 🎨🌲⭐️💫 #CMCA #ArtParty #MidcoastMaine #ContemporaryArt #Li...
beckybuythebay
43 likes • 900 views

Family Fun Days

Look for kid-friendly art-making activities, often inspired by current shows. :child:

Combine with Farnsworth

CMCA is small; pair it with the nearby Farnsworth for a full art day. :museum:

ATMOSPHERES A portrait of artist Eric Hopkins Presented by the Center for Maine Contemporary Art Thursday, October 5 at 7pm $10/General Admission, Tickets at the door 30 min. prior to show time ATMOSPHERES is filmmaker Dale Schierholt’s portrait of artist Eric Hopkins. Hopkins, who began his artistic journey at the Rhode Island School of Design and an early apprenticeship with the renowned glass ...
rocklandstrand
12 likes • 672 views

Tips

from all over the internet

Check Exhibit Schedule

Exhibits rotate! See what's on before you go to maximize your visit. Instagram

Free First Fridays

Enjoy free admission and music on the first Friday of the month. :musical_note: Reddit

Family Fun Days

Look for kid-friendly art-making activities, often inspired by current shows. :child:

Combine with Farnsworth

CMCA is small; pair it with the nearby Farnsworth for a full art day. :museum:

What Travellers Say

4.5
(119 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors find CMCA to be a fascinating facility with fantastic, boundary-pushing exhibits that are a great addition to Rockland's art scene. While some note its intimate size and suggest it's best paired with other attractions, many praise the quality of the art and the engaging family activities offered.

"Very small and only 3 rooms to see a minimal amount of mediocre Art. $8 per person senior rate not worth it. The museum was basically empty and now I know why"

Joanne “GJ” R

"This is a fascinating facility. Their exhibits are fantastic. They push the envelope and are a great addition to the Rockland ,Maine art experience."

David Bjork

"Excellent exhibition, great place and good bathrooms."

Ludvig Kingfors

What People Like

Cutting-edge exhibitions
Engaging family activities
Great addition to Rockland

What People Dislike

Small size
Mediocre art (some opinions)

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

CMCA is located in Rockland, Maine. If driving, there is typically street parking available nearby. It's also accessible by public transport routes serving the Midcoast region, though schedules can be limited. Reddit

The facility is generally accessible, with good bathrooms noted by visitors. It's advisable to contact CMCA directly for specific accessibility details regarding exhibits or entry points. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

General admission is typically around $8, with a senior rate available. However, CMCA offers free admission on First Fridays, often accompanied by music, making it a popular time to visit. Reddit

Opening hours can vary, so it's best to check the official CMCA website or their social media for the most up-to-date information on daily hours and any special closures. Instagram

Tickets are generally available at the door. For special events like film screenings, advance booking might be recommended, so check the event details. Instagram

🎫 🎨 Onsite Experience

CMCA focuses on cutting-edge contemporary art, featuring installations and paintings by Maine-based artists. They are known for pushing artistic boundaries and showcasing thought-provoking work. Reddit

Yes, CMCA often hosts family-friendly art activities and workshops inspired by their exhibits, making it an engaging experience for kids. Reddit

Given its intimate size, a visit to CMCA usually takes about an hour. It's often combined with visits to other nearby cultural attractions like the Farnsworth Art Museum. Reddit

While formal guided tours might not be a daily offering, the staff are usually knowledgeable and can provide insights into the exhibits. Special artist talks or curator-led discussions may be announced. Instagram

📸 📸 Photography

Photography policies can vary by exhibition. It's best to look for signage within the galleries or ask staff if personal photography is permitted, especially without flash. Instagram

The contemporary art itself often provides unique and visually striking opportunities for photos. Look for interesting installations or the architectural elements of the building. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

CMCA is a great spot for families looking to introduce children to contemporary art. They frequently host engaging art-making activities that are often inspired by the current exhibitions, allowing kids to get hands-on with creative processes. Reddit These workshops are designed to be fun and educational, making art accessible and enjoyable for younger visitors. It's a wonderful way to spark creativity and provide a memorable experience for the whole family. Reddit

While the main galleries offer a more contemplative experience, the dedicated children's activities ensure that even the youngest visitors can find something to enjoy. It's advisable to check CMCA's schedule in advance for specific dates and themes of these family programs. Combining a visit to CMCA with other kid-friendly attractions in Rockland can make for a perfect family day out. Instagram

Art Enthusiasts & Culture Seekers

For those passionate about contemporary art, CMCA offers a curated selection of cutting-edge installations and paintings by talented Maine artists. The intimate setting allows for a deep appreciation of each piece, fostering a personal connection with the artwork. Reddit It's an ideal destination for those seeking to explore the latest trends and innovative expressions in the art world. Instagram

Consider visiting during First Fridays for a lively atmosphere with free admission and music, or opt for a weekday afternoon to enjoy a more serene and reflective experience. CMCA's programming often includes artist talks and film screenings, providing further opportunities to delve into the creative process and artistic discourse. InstagramReddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The CMCA Experience: Intimate & Innovative

The Center for Maine Contemporary Art (CMCA) is celebrated for its role in showcasing cutting-edge contemporary art from Maine artists. Unlike larger institutions, CMCA offers an intimate viewing experience, allowing visitors to connect closely with the artwork. Their exhibitions are known for being bold and thought-provoking, often pushing the boundaries of traditional art forms. InstagramReddit

This focus on innovation makes CMCA a vital part of the Midcoast Maine art scene. They frequently feature new installations and paintings, ensuring a fresh perspective with each visit. The space itself is designed to complement the art, creating a focused and engaging environment for patrons. It's a place where you can discover emerging talent and engage with the current pulse of artistic expression in the region. Reddit

Beyond the main galleries, CMCA also hosts events like film screenings and artist talks, further enriching the cultural landscape. They have also been recognized for their family-friendly programming, offering hands-on art activities that make contemporary art accessible to younger audiences. Reddit This commitment to diverse engagement solidifies CMCA's position as a dynamic cultural hub. Instagram

Rockland's Artful Charm: CMCA and Beyond

Rockland, Maine, is a destination rich in artistic offerings, with the Center for Maine Contemporary Art (CMCA) being a key player. CMCA's presence enhances the town's reputation as an art lover's paradise, complementing institutions like the Farnsworth Art Museum. Visitors often find that a day exploring Rockland's art scene is a rewarding experience, with CMCA providing a modern counterpoint to more traditional collections. Reddit

The proximity of CMCA to other attractions makes it an ideal stop for a comprehensive cultural tour. Many visitors recommend combining a visit to CMCA with a stroll through Rockland's charming downtown, exploring local galleries, shops, and restaurants. The town's vibrant atmosphere, especially on days with events or markets, adds to the overall appeal. TikTok

For those planning a trip, consider the First Fridays events at CMCA, which offer free admission and often feature live music, creating a lively community gathering. This makes it a perfect opportunity to experience the local art scene in a relaxed and social setting. Reddit

You may also like