The Maine Museum of Photographic Arts is relocating to a larger space on Commercial Street in Portland, a move that will significantly enhance its exhibition capabilities. With the new location expected to open in February 2024, the museum will more than double its square footage to nearly 1,500 square feet, providing a much-needed expansion for its operations.
The nonprofit organization has initiated a fundraising campaign to raise $130,000 within the next 90 days to finance renovations at the ground-level suite located at 387 Commercial St.. Museum director Denise Froelich is finalizing the purchase details this week, expressing optimism about the potential of the new venue. “It’s a game changer for us,” Froelich stated. “This is something we’ve needed for so many years.”
Expansion and New Opportunities
Founded 15 years ago, the Maine Museum of Photographic Arts has experienced various changes in its locations. Initially based at the University of Southern Maine’s Portland campus, the museum most recently operated from a 600-square-foot storefront on Middle Street. The constraints of that space were evident, with exhibitions held in a single large room and only a small office available for additional works. Froelich noted the challenges faced during events, stating, “I only had 55 chairs for artist talks, so if 80 people came, I would prompt the seated guests to trade with standing ones halfway through the event.”
The new facility will include two galleries—one larger and one smaller—allowing for an expanded range of exhibitions. Froelich envisions opportunities for longer exhibitions, niche retrospectives, and themed shows dedicated to specific collectors, as well as digital and video installations. She also plans to increase engagement through school tours, expanded inventory, and the addition of staff members, including interns and a second full-time employee.
“This additional space means more artists are included,” Froelich explained. The museum’s initial campaign is part of a broader goal to raise $4 million over the next year, a significant leap from its operating budget of nearly $200,000 this year.
Looking Ahead
Although the Middle Street location is now closed, the Maine Museum of Photographic Arts continues to operate online, selling artwork and books through its website. Froelich has received over 100 applications for the first exhibition scheduled in the new space, with the theme “Home and Place.”
The transition to the new location at Hobson’s Landing is anticipated to foster greater collaboration and creativity within the community. Froelich expressed her excitement about the potential for the museum to better serve artists and audiences alike, stating, “The way that we’re going to be able to collaborate is going to be really, really cool.”
As the Maine Museum of Photographic Arts embarks on this new chapter, it aims to strengthen its role as a vital cultural institution in the region, enhancing its outreach and impact in the world of photographic arts.
