Painting by Caroline Rufo. Submitted photo

The Chocolate Church Arts Center gallery will feature artists Caroline Rufo and John Rufo in a show titled “Slack Tide”, with an opening event at 5 p.m. on Friday, July 2. “Slack Tide” features oil paintings from the two artists, many of which explore the natural beauty of Maine. “Slack Tide” will be on display through Saturday, Aug. 7.

Painting by John Rufo. Submitted photo

CCAC will also host a free artists’ talk with Caroline and John at 12 p.m. on Saturday, July 10. Tickets are not required.

Caroline Rufo creates paintings, installations and performances. Of her Maine-based work, Caroline states “In the Maine paintings, the humble clamshell is foregrounded, and traditional vistas recede into the background. These small mollusks…are central to the economics of coastal Maine. I compose the paintings of the shells like monuments befitting their importance.”

John Rufo is a painter and architect who focuses on objects in his landscape. John says, “I am drawn to the shallows of low tide where subtle imprints and topographic shifts in the mud flat mark the presence of a buoy, mooring or dory, as well as record the ebb and flow of tides. The gently bending planes of sand and water in contrast to boats, rocks or marsh grasses provide endless subjects for the eye.”

The event will take place in the gallery at CCAC, with light refreshments served. Those who have been fully vaccinated against COVID-19 do not need to wear a mask. Those who have not been vaccinated are asked to wear a mask while in the gallery. The event is free to attend, but guests are asked to register in advance. Registration and more information can be found at chocolatechurcharts.org.

The Chocolate Church Arts Center is located at 804 Washington St., Bath. The gallery is open 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Tuesday-Friday, and 10 a.m.-2 p.m. on Saturday. For more information, visit the CCAC website, Facebook page or call (207) 442-8455.