August Events for the Design Minded, Part 1

By Lynda Simonton

Directors’ Cut: Selections from the Maine Art Museum Trail

Through September 20

The best of Maine art from museums across the state come together under one roof in this exhibit highlighting Maine’s rich artistic history. The state’s importance in the American art scene continues to grow as the state gains status as a mecca for galleries, studios, and art museums. From Winslow Homer to N. C. Wyeth to Alex Katz, the exhibit studies the state’s profound artistic legacy. Portland Museum of Art, Portland, Maine, (207) 775-6148, portlandmuseum.org

Annual League of NH Craftsmen Fair

August 1–9

More than 350 New Hampshire craftspeople will display their work at this popular fair. Almost every type of medium is represented, including furniture, glass, pottery, prints, and woodcarvings, along with daily demonstrations and workshops for all ages. 10 a.m.–5 p.m. Mount Sunapee Resort, Newbury, N.H., (603) 224-3375, nhcrafts.org

August 5

Collecting: Passion or Obsession

Farnsworth Museum chief curator Michael K. Komanecky will lead a panel discussion with three art collectors, who will discuss how they got interested in collecting and lessons learned along the way, and share their personal reflections on what it means to have formed a collection. The talk is being given in conjunction with the Maine Collects exhibition. $7 members, $10 non-members. 5:30 p.m. Farnsworth Museum, Rockland, Maine, (207) 596-6457, farnsworthmuseum.org

August Fête

August 6

This annual event celebrating the rich history of Nantucket architecture features homes in the island’s West End and Madaket. After the tour enjoy an evening under a tent with sweeping water views. The reception will feature a silent auction, live music, hors d’oeuvres, and a raw bar. 6 p.m.–9 p.m.; check website for pricing. Nantucket, (508) 228-1387, nantucketpreservation.org

30th Annual Pops by the Sea

August 9

Enjoy a lively evening of music by the beloved Boston Pops. Concert-goers have several seating options, including VIP tables, festival seating, or space on the lawn. Proceeds from the concert go to the Arts Foundation of Cape Cod. 5 p.m.–7 p.m.; gates open at 1 p.m.; check website for pricing and details. Hyannis Village Green, Hyannis, Massachusetts, (508) 362-0066, artsfoundation.org

22nd Annual Antiques Show at the Osterville Historical Museum

August 13

Dealers from around New England will showcase unique items at this popular show. 9:30 a.m.–4 p.m.; call for pricing. Osterville Historical Museum, Osterville, Massachusetts, (508) 428-5861, ostervillemuseum.org

Open Doors of York

August 12–13

Visit eight homes and gardens along Lindsay Road, one of York, Maine’s most beautiful neighborhoods. There are two areas for parking where you can catch a trolley that takes you to all the homes featured on the tour. $35 in advance, $40 days of tour. 10 a.m.–4 p.m. (207) 363-1756, oldyork.org

Garden Conservancy’s Open Days at Dirt Row Farm

August 15

Dirt Row Farm Chef’s Garden will be open to the public as part of the Garden Conservancy’s Open Days. This working garden is at the residence of personal chef Phoebe Cole-Smith, known for her farm-to-table cuisine. You’ll have a chance to see her charming garden, featuring interesting vegetables, edible flowers, and herbs. Weston, Connecticut, 10 a.m.–4 p.m., gardenconservancy.org/opendays