Our Mission

Engine connects and empowers artists through equitable access to community, resources, and creative opportunities.

Our Vision

Engine envisions a community with equitable artist opportunity; where art, design, and creativity are valued, accessible, and celebrated by all.

Our Manifesto

We believe that art should integrate, not alienate. The arts should not just be an idea or a feeling; it should be a reality accessible to all.

Engine’s History

In 2010, Engine was founded to propel cultural, social, and economic revitalization through creative community programming in Biddeford, Maine’s historic downtown. The 501(c)3 nonprofit first focused on bringing together artists, makers, and local businesses to knit a culture and creative economy filled with connection and inspiration through education, youth programming, gallery openings, and free community events. As Biddeford’s renaissance has progressed, Engine has evolved its offerings to meet the needs of the community while continuing to drive creative commerce.

Founded on the belief that artistic expression and creative vibrancy are the gateways to cultural, social, and economic revitalization, Engine’s programs are designed to ensure accessibility and inclusion, with an emphasis on free community events, such as a seasonal ArtWalk, annual FringeFest, and regular gallery exhibitions. In 2022, the organization launched IGNITE, an arts business incubator, and in 2023 Engine became the fiscal sponsor for Common Roots Studio Mobile Art Bus.

Entity Structure

Engine is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization (effective December 2010) incorporated in the State of Maine.

Engine’s Financial Statements and IRS 990 filings are available at our Guidestar profile.


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