Reflections on teaching boat building, virtually

As the distant learning aspect of the school year is coming to an end this week, I’d like to share my experience as a virtual instructor for Engine’s Compass Project at Biddeford High School for the year of 2020-2021. For the past seven months, I’ve been logging onto Zoom at

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2021 Biddeford ArtWalk

Engine reopens our space to community!

Everyone, I am thrilled to be reopening Engine as a space for creativity and community this summer. What’s on deck: We kick off the 2021 ArtWalk season on June 18. Biddeford ArtWalk is a free open to the public event celebrating local arts and creativity on the third Friday of the month from 5:30 – 7:30pm

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REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS FOR FESTIVAL ARTIST IN RESIDENCE (FAiR) FOR FRINGE FEST 2021

Engine seeks a Festival Artist in Residence (FAiR) to create deep engagement through art, connecting the Biddeford community together by inviting community members to participate in the creative process. During the residency, the FAiR will facilitate relationships and inspire deeper levels of engagement and connection. Our community will receive the

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Artists working in an art studio

Engine featured in Maine Magazine

We are thrilled that our work inspiring and connecting our community through art, design, and education is featured in the May 2021 issue of Maine Magazine. Highlighting our new director Jess Muise and the vibrant community of artists and makers hosted in our affordable studios, collaborative darkroom, and makerspace, writer

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Art and an essay for our times by our exhibiting artist Stephen Burt

This emblem is an elaboration of the staff of Asclepius-the Greek god of healing and medicine. The serpent by its change of skin represents rebirth and fertility as well as deep knowledge. The rod of Asclepius has been transformed into a cane made of oak to aid those in need.

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Photo of Jess Muise

Hello from Engine’s new Executive Director, Jess Muise!

Hey everyone! I’m Jess Muise, the new Executive Director at Engine. I’m here! I live in Biddeford, ME. I am so excited to join this community and have this opportuity to lead such a wonderful organization. I am here because Engine is about transformation, and I am here to support people

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Performance series “en route” slated

Taking place in Engine’s gallery space, 𝗲𝗻 𝗿𝗼𝘂𝘁𝗲 is a walk up dance installation to be seen safely from the sidewalk that will showcase both film and live performances every Friday throughout the months of January and February. This series is generously curated and produced by dance artist Jacqui De França.

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Engine welcomes Jess Muise as new Executive Director

Engine is thrilled to announced it has named Jessica Muise as its new executive director. Muise succeeds Tammy Ackerman, the organization’s co-founder and executive director since 2009.  “Jessica is an experienced arts and community advocate who will bring energy and exceptional collaborative skills to the job of the executive director”

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New staff joins Engine

We welcome JUSTIN DESPER (they/them) to our team as our new COMPASS PROJECT in-person instructor for the Winter/Spring semester. Desper is a Textile and Fashion Design graduate from Maine College of Art. They grew up in Kennebunk, Maine, and spent most of their summers working on the water at a

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Light Up the Dark

A call for proposals for storefront installations to light up the dark winter ahead.

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