5.24.05 - New Website Launches Focus of the Downeast Heritage Museum Read Full Story

12.15.04 - Robotics Logo Designed for Pilot Program Read Full Story

9.1.04 - Spotlight on Maine Inspirations Studio & Gallery Read Full Story

8.11.04 - MMHS Captures Its Essence Read Full Story

4.21.04 - Watercolors Presented Read Full Story

4.14.04 - Business Leaders Read Full Story

12.10.03 - Artist's Reception Read Full Story

PUBLISHED MAY 24, 2005

New Website Launches Focus of the Downeast Heritage Museum

Poised for the 2005 summer influx, the Downeast Heritage Museum in Calais is moving forward with the currents as a world-class, educational, interpretive center. Formerly known as the Downeast Heritage Center, the Downeast Heritage Museum chose to implement a name variation to reflect the focus of the institution.

To coincide with the new season of patrons and concentrations of the DEHM, promotional re-design, in the forms of an interactive website, brochures, presentation materials and logo were created by Maine Inspirations Studio and Gallery of Machias. The website in particular, showcases the beauty of the Downeast area, as well as intriguing aspects of the museum itself. Graphics artistry, photographic imagery and engaging animations invite the viewer into the world of exploration at the Downeast Heritage Museum: a place where fun and education, culture, history and the legacy of this area are all intertwined in a dynamic presentation of the bounties of Washington County and the St. Croix region.

"Maine Inspirations has created a wonderful site. It provides a delightful, fact-filled, virtual visit that whets the appetite for an actual visit to the Downeast Heritage Museum," states Jim Thompson, Executive Director of the DEHM. Mutual appreciation for the project is evident, as Loretta McClellan, Owner and Director of Maine Inspirations affirms, "Designing the website and other promotional materials for the Downeast Heritage Museum has been an extreme pleasure for us. The wonderful offerings of the museum, its influence for good in this area and its truly, kind and intuitive staff make for easy inspiration. I wish them much success in the seasons to come."

Original exhibits in the museum: "Living with the Sea", with its popular, tidal, touch pool; "People of the Dawn", with its treasured, handmade, Passamaquoddy canoe - a focal piece of the museum and "L'Ile Sainte Croix", with its resident "ghost" of Pierre Dugua will be joined by the new "Living with the Land" exhibit, scheduled for a summer 2005 opening. The "Living with the Land" aspect of the museum will highlight the historical ties to the workings of the land through industry, ecology and its ever-present splendor. A glimpse of this new exhibit can be viewed on the museum website. For further information, hours and directions, please call the DEHM at (207) 454-7878 or view the website at www.downeastheritage.org.

PUBLISHED DECEMBER 15, 2004
MACHIAS VALLEY NEWS OBSERVER, MACHIAS, MAINE

"Rose M. Gaffney School's new Robotics Program logo, custom designed by Loretta D. McClellan, Owner/Principal Artist of Maine Inspirations Studio and Gallery of Machias."

PUBLISHED SEPTEMBER 1, 2004
MACHIAS VALLEY NEWS OBSERVER, MACHIAS, MAINE

SPOTLIGHT ON WASHINGTON COUNTY NEW BUSINESS:

MAINE INSPIRATIONS STUDIO & GALLERY
27 Broadway/Rt. 192, Machias, Maine

Loretta D. Boyer McClellan, Owner/Director, in the MAINE INSPIRATIONS Studio & Gallery (MAINE INSPIRATIONS photo)

Broadway/Route 192 View of MAINE INSPIRATIONS Studio & Gallery and adjacent
circa 1850 Victorian (MAINE INSPIRATIONS photo)

MAINE INSPIRATIONS, a working studio, gallery and Center for the Arts and Education, is a place that is sure to inspire all those who enter this inviting Cape Cod style carriage house. Amidst the pristine timbers and original aspects of this historical treasure are elements that indicate that the design of the gallery space was paramount, while preserving the integrity of its 19th century presence. Breathtakingly beautiful, the gallery inventory is sure to please even the most discerning buyer. Owner/Director, Loretta D. Boyer McClellan, also the principal artist, greets each client with a welcome smile and ensures that their visit is an artistic feast for the senses.

Original paintings grace the walls, while hand-beveled stained glass is also incorporated into the repertoire. Opportunities for viewing fine art, graphic design and stained glass production are available, as MAINE INSPIRATIONS is indeed a working art studio. Watercolor and acrylic paintings, as well as stained glass: both panel work and architectural windows and entryways are also available by commission. Gifts of Artistry - all handmade, including an exclusive line of 100% hand-poured soy candles; framed giclee' prints of gallery originals; fiber arts, such as wraps and scarves; exclusive hat designs; jewelry, including a MAINE INSPIRATIONS signature jewelry line; handbags and note cards are currently available. Inventory is expanding daily and many are limited editions.

Small group and private art instruction will be offered on a limited basis, as well as periodic artist receptions and presentations of the arts. MAINE INSPIRATIONS is a center for education in the arts and welcomes inquiries from educators and educational institutions as well as businesses and organizations for program availability.

The studio portion of the business just celebrated a first anniversary in Machias. With twenty years of design and art experience, MAINE INSPIRATIONS' professionalism, creative prowess and attention to detail will create graphics, websites and marketing campaigns of distinction for individuals, new businesses, or seasoned corporations. Call or stop by for a free corporate identity consultation appointment.

MAINE INSPIRATIONS Studio and Gallery is located at 27 Broadway/Route 192 on the corner of North Street in Machias. Look for the 3-story, gray Victorian with red roof: The grand, circa 1850 Getchell Victorian – an architectural gem in itself. The studio and gallery are in the 19th Century carriage house to the rear of the property. The entrance is on the North Street side of the gallery building through the double French doors. Parking is available on both Broadway and North Streets. Hours are Tuesday - Saturday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and by appointment, closed Sundays and Mondays. Call (207) 255-0760 or view the company website at www.maineinspirations.com for more information.

PUBLISHED AUGUST 11, 2004
MACHIAS VALLEY NEWS OBSERVER, MACHIAS, MAINE

MMHS CAPTURES ITS ESSENCE:"TRADITION WITH VISION"

How often does an educational institution consider changing its identity in the community? In the world of school publicity, Machias Memorial High School has taken great strides to promote the strengths of its fundamental nature: "Tradition With Vision".

Spearheaded by Union 102 Superintendent Scott Porter and approved by the school board at their August 5th meeting, MMHS has changed their "corporate" image as it pertains to logo, branding and marketing. The bulldog school mascot and sports logo will remain the same; however, the overall approach of the school in the media will reflect the longtime icon of the bell that graces the front lawn of the high school. The bell was incorporated into the overall branding of the project, due to its longstanding, historical connection to the school. Initial responses from students, faculty, staff and community of the new logo have been unanimously favorable.

Commissioned by Mr. Porter to create the logo, advertising and marketing is Loretta D. McClellan, owner and director of Maine Inspirations Studio and Gallery, based in Machias. Ms. McClellan's approach to the project was one of promoting the visionary strengths of the school pictorially and in written form, while also promoting the deep and abiding roots of the bell artistically throughout the new marketing campaign.

The bell logo, designed as a more formal "seal" concept, includes the historical bell as the focus of the design as well as the school colors of orange and black predominantly. Horizon of sky with lines, in orange on the top of the logo, symbolizing "looking to the future" and "having vision", as well as lines in gray to the bottom of the logo, symbolizing the town's ever-present tie to water and its renewing attributes were incorporated into the design by Ms. McClellan to compliment the school's new image. A black, circular background and orange lettering of the school name as well as the new school slogan, "Tradition With Vision" complete the motif.

Machias Memorial High School will be offering screen printed t-shirts as well as embroidered polo shirts in the near future with the new logo on them at several upcoming community events. Additional new changes in signage and media will be an on-going part of the project.

PUBLISHED APRIL 21, 2004
MACHIAS VALLEY NEWS OBSERVER, MACHIAS, MAINE

"WATERCOLORS PRESENTED TO SCEC"

"On Thursday, April 15, 2004, Loretta D. McClellan, Owner/Director of Maine Inspirations Studio & Gallery in Machias (pictured on right), presented six commissioned watercolor paintings and digital renderings to Dianne Tilton, Executive Director of the Sunrise County Economic Council. The landscape and architectural design artwork was commissioned as part of the SCEC's and Delta Development Corporation's Integrated Village Development Plan for the towns of Milbridge, Steuben, Cherryfield and Harrington."

PUBLISHED APRIL 14, 2004
MACHIAS VALLEY NEWS OBSERVER, MACHIAS, MAINE

"The Washington County Leadership Institute Theta Class Graduates of 2004 are (back row from left to right): Eleody Libby, Health Ways/RMCL; Louise West, Machias Bay Area Chamber of Commerce; Joshua Bragg, CES, Inc.; William Cherry, Machias Savings Bank; Kristin Wright, Washington County Children's Program and Loretta McClellan, Maine Inspirations Studio & Gallery. Front row from left to right: Linda Cross Godfrey, WCLI Facilitator; Cynthia Scally, Marshall Healthcare; Tammy Brown-Preston, Marshall Healthcare; Mary Laury, Schoodic Arts for All; and Diane Smith Helder, Washington County Children's Program."

"WASHINGTON COUNTY BUSINESS LEADERS ENGAGE FOR THE FUTURE"

"What do the towns of Machias, Perry, Steuben, Calais, Jonesport, Princeton and Edmunds all have in common? They are the sites of the Washington County Leadership Institute Theta Class for their annual 2004 certificate program. Sponsored by the Sunrise County Economic Council and prominent Washington County businesses, this program was facilitated by the Atlantic Leadership Institute.

From January through April, 2004, the eighth graduating class of the WCLI met at various, picturesque locations throughout Washington County to hone their leadership skills. Five of the nine class dates were held on Wednesdays every other week and the remaining four class dates were held on two, two-day retreats. Each retreat took place on a Friday and Saturday.

In addition to discussing practical direction and management techniques, this group of businesspersons and entrepreneurs spent class time "pondering the affirmative" by discussing Washington County-specific topics and proactive ways in which to strengthen the local economy. Job creation, job retention, education and health programs, recreation, as well as specific needs were all addressed to help better understand the future requirements and growth trends of Washington County and its residents.

Each of the class members from across the county and one from Hancock County contributed to a "think tank" of discussion from which a resounding gratitude for this place of abundance in which we live became a frequent theme. Additionally, each class member was invited to do a presentation on their own business or business they represented at some point during the course. Class member business presentations ranged from non-profit children's programs, commerce and art programs, to for-profit healthcare, banking, engineering and an art studio and gallery. Many of the students were representing several Washington County business organizations that are promoting a legacy of leadership. This corporate heritage is being solidified through establishing a tradition of multiple WCLI graduates from their companies.

Out of the class membership, this particular WCLI class had the largest concentration of Washington County natives in the Institute's history. Further class discussion identified longstanding, generational ties to Washington County from multiple students, as well as discovery of two class members being cousins.

Program classes included various sponsor presentations from high-profile Washington County businesses, including: Sunrise County Economic Council, Atlantic Leadership Institute, Union Trust Company, Downeast Heritage Center, Washington County Council of Governments, St. Croix Insurance Agency, St. Croix Federal Credit Union, Machias Savings Bank, Atlantic Salmon of Maine, RHR Smith and Company and Calais Federal Savings and Loan. These presentations from seasoned executives and former WCLI graduates promoted the identifying of leadership styles, successful approaches to leadership and strengthening the future of Washington County and its youth. Luncheon discussions with the guest speakers for each session gave class members opportunities to ask more in-depth questions of the guest speaker.

Included in each class were prepared and catered breakfasts and lunches from area businesses. Dinner was provided on two Fridays that were part of the two-day retreat dates. The two retreat locations were at the Crohn Family Conference Center in Perry and the Machias Savings Bank Community Room in Machias. Accommodations were provided at local motels as part of the program.

Class locations chosen for their historical and/or significant beauty for the Theta Class were: Day 1 & 2: Crohn Family Conference Center in Perry; Day 3: Henry D. Moore Parish House and Library in Steuben; Day 4: Downeast Heritage Center in Calais; Day 5 : Community of Christ Church in Jonesport; Day 6 & 7: Machias Savings Bank Community Room in Machias; Day 8: Princeton Rod and Gun Club in Princeton; and Day 9: Tide Mill Farm in Edmunds. As part of the class curriculum, each class included a tour and narration of the history and importance of the building and/or location. Students learned of the community aspect each building and location represented, as well as genealogical, in the case of Tide Mill Farm, a working multi-generational family farm in Edmunds.

A recurring focus with the WCLI Theta class was deep admiration for nature and all its metaphors for leadership and life, emphasis on historical and significant industries, and appreciation for the founders and people of Washington County. Family and ancestral ties, multi-cultural respect and Downeast tradition were heralded as mainstays of the commerce, ingenuity and resilience of current and future leaders of this area.

Members of the 2004 Theta Graduating Class of the Washington County Leadership Institute are: Joshua Bragg, CES, Inc.; Tammy Brown-Preston, Marshall Healthcare; William Cherry, Machias Savings Bank; Mary Laury, Schoodic Arts for All; Eleody Libby, Health Ways/RMCL, Inc.; Loretta McClellan, Maine Inspirations Studio & Gallery; Cynthia Scally, Marshall Healthcare; Diane Smith Helder, Washington County Children's Program; Louise West, Machias Bay Area Chamber of Commerce; and Kristin Wright, Washington County Children's Program. The WCLI Program Coordinator is Jennifer Peters of Sunrise County Economic Council in Machias and the WCLI Program Instructor is Linda Cross Godfrey of the Atlantic Leadership Institute in Eastport.

For more information regarding the upcoming Washington County Leadership Institute, contact Jennifer Peters, Program Coordinator of the Sunrise County Economic Council at (207) 255-0983, email at scec@sunrisecounty.org, or view the website at www.sunrisecounty.org."

PUBLISHED DEC. 10, 2003
MACHIAS VALLEY NEWS OBSERVER, MACHIAS, MAINE

"AN ARTIST'S WELCOME RECEPTION"

Maine Inspirations, a custom graphic design, web design and fine art studio has made Machias its new home since August 26, 2003. Owner/Director, Loretta D. "Lori" McClellan had several criteria for business location suitability and Machias fulfilled them all. With the coastal charm that is Downeast Maine and the welcoming embrace of fellow Machias townspeople and local businesses, this environment is what any artist and business owner could hope for in an ideal location

"Moving to Machias wasn't just relocating my studio, it was a move that was beneficial in so many other ways both professional and personal - ways that are still unfolding as each day passes," states McClellan. Evidence of professional benefits, has been an immediate abundance of "word of mouth" referrals - the first of which resulting in a client was by Fundy Bay Printing, a local printer in Machias that Maine Inspirations partners with for custom design work. "It's that kind of ability to work with and support other new local business owners that truly warms my heart," beams McClellan. The Maine Inspirations owner additionally attributes her recent business connections to Louise West, Machias Bay Area Chamber of Commerce Director and Dianne Tilton, Sunrise Economic Council Executive Director. Regarding these two business promoters, McClellan assures, "These women work so diligently at nurturing and securing the futures for local entrepreneurs - they should be heartily commended, along with their staff for their effective efforts on our behalf." In addition, McClellan wants to credit all her new friends and neighbors who have assisted her newly relocated studio by their referrals. McClellan adds, "When your closest relative other than your own immediate family is clear across the country on the west coast, your friends naturally become your family - that kind of loyalty is a treasure!"

Maine Inspirations has two decades of award-winning design and fine art experience, and web site experience since the inception of the internet. Strengths in journalism, fictional and lyric writing and poetry allow McClellan's studio to create not just a pictorial vision for her clients, but imagery based upon the written word. "The mind has a way of expanding on the written word beyond what visual imagery can produce," McClellan adds. Included in the design repertoire is an additional specialty of corporate identity design, i.e. logo/business card/letterhead and website design. "Designing a logo is one of my favorite design jobs, as it is very spontaneous and creative - something that every artist craves," she states. Another portfolio item Maine Inspirations has utilized nationally is flyers for real estate properties. Maine Inspirations works with local and national real estate agencies to produce photographic and literary presentations to promote specific properties. With this spontaneous creativity comes a professional resume' that spans over 20 years with locations in 5 different states and a national clientele.

As a native Californian from Silicon Valley and a former resident of Hawaii, Massachusetts and Illinois, Loretta brings with her Machias studio an ability to design for national as well as local needs and to utilize cutting-edge technology on behalf of her clients. With experience producing artwork for Silicon Valley-based government contractor agencies in a secured environment, McClellan's reputation for dependability, professionalism and integrity have become her hallmark in the industry.

A definite strength behind her industry experience, McClellan's fine art education was focused on painting, but included jewelry design - both of which are a focus of the fine art originals' aspect of the studio. Historical and contemporary architectural portraiture, landscapes and symbolist paintings, both in acrylic and watercolor are available by commission. On occasion, McClellan has in the past, taken on art students that demonstrate a maturity level and dedication to the field. "Being a 'good artist' is about 40% inherent talent and about 60% learned; all that is required is a basic, natural ability and the desire to become proficient," McClellan states.

Between design and art clients, her current plans include launching an on-line gallery and gifts page on the maineinspirations.com website in the next month and to have a physical, on-site gallery by next summer. The location of the Maine Inspirations studio, in an 1850's farmhouse Victorian and barn, often referred to as "Dr. Shaw's house" , or historically as "The Getchell house", is truly an idyllic setting in which to be inspired in and to subsequently create in. As a former member of two historical commissions in Massachusetts and Illinois, Loretta is in her element in her studio residence.

In summarizing this artist's welcoming reception into the Machias community, McClellan states, "I can't emphasize enough how much moving to Machias has done for me and my family; this move has been in the works for several years and I am grateful to finally be here. Everything and everyone that has captured my heart in this area have truly inspired me, hence the name of my studio. I gravitated to an honest environment rich in beauty and Machias is that kind of place - the kind of place that people from away dream about. I am grateful to call Machias my home."