The Orford Art Group evolved over many years and includes friends and family of a core group of artists who came together through Barbara Bellows, a well established artist in the Upper Valley who now resides in Newfoundland, Canada and whose work has been exhibited throughout the Northeast and beyond.

Starting with private art lessons for school aged students and an adult art group back in the early 90’s, Barbara shared her passion, talent and knowledge with others.  Several students came and went, but her sister, Nancy Maynard, and friend, Robin Weisburger, continued to meet weekly to explore new and exciting concepts.  Robin’s daughter, Erin, a student at Orford Elementary, also continued to study the arts under Barbara’s mentorship.

Through the years, friends Althea Goundrey and Alan Jesseman joined the group, eventually leading to the establishment of Palisades Art & Framing, a gallery in Fairlee, VT owned by Alan and which became a labor of love for the group.  Robin’s sister, Kelly Carney, shared in the fun remotely by adding her artwork from Idaho Falls.  Carolyn Zuaro, an art student at Skidmore College also shared her talent.  Gene Bellows & Paul Goundrey, husbands of Barbara and Althea and skilled photographers, also brought their unique artistic perspective and wonderful photographs.

Members attended workshops, experimented with various media, went on art excursions to Maine and Newfoundland, and participated in Hannah House Adirondack Chair fundraising events.

When the gallery burned down in the Colby Block fire of 2007, the core group of artists, although stunned, continued meeting in Barbara’s studio, using their love for the arts and each other to heal.  One year later, Robin’s Art & Framing was established in Orford, NH and began holding shows in Robin’s home & studio twice a year to share the group’s art with others.  Tom Hall, John Miller and Cara Dyke have since joined the group, and we suddenly realized we had established an artist community.

Our work has been created in basements, studios, living rooms, and on hillsides and shorelines.  We share our ideas, dreams and knowledge through our weekly art gatherings, the internet, and late night phone conversations.  The Orford Art Group may have its core in Orford, but its talents and dreams extend far beyond the Upper Valley.  We are grateful for each other and all of our opportunities to share our art with our community.