Friday, October 25, 2024
Michael (Mike, as I knew him) Culver
I had great admiration for Mike Culver and am saddened by news of his death. My thoughts are with his family and all who knew him.
In the years that Mike was curator of the Ogunquit Museum of American Art, he gave it the forward thinking momentum needed for the success it enjoys today. When Mike became curator, exhibitions were held of work outside the museum’s collection, including photography, a break with tradition. The gardens and surrounding grounds were enhanced and the gift shop, essentially a bookshop of art books earlier, was expanded, adding not only to visitor’s delight, but to the museum’s funds. The OMAA Bulletin was published for members of upcoming exhibitions, and when the technology became available, a website was established.
Mike, curator, and John Dirks, museum director, were both very supportive of my painting and moving to the Isle of Skye, Scotland, on an artist visa in 1995. It was an honor and joy to be offered a solo exhibition when I returned to the US for August 1998, For that opportunity, I am always thankful.
Mike visited me to chose the work for that exhibition, spending time talking about each piece. He suggested that I write a short paragraph for each of several paintings that he would place with the work. It was Mike’s personable style, providing a unique way to share the plein-air painting process with viewers.
I would love to share my recent paintings of Skye with Mike, because he would care. He was that kind of guy! His family can be very proud. The exhibition he made possible for me at the OMAA, a museum I loved since my high school years, remains a treasured highlight of my painting life. Thank you, Mike.
