MAINE FRANCO ARTS
A directory of Franco-American artists residing and working in the state of Maine
Currently in a pilot stage, this site aims to serve as a comprehensive directory of Franco-American artists currently living and working in the state of Maine.
Maine has a unique Franco history as well as an active and vibrant contemporary arts scene. By connecting these artists, resources, and the community through Maine Franco Arts, we hope to further empower and benefit Maine's invaluable Franco culture.
This directory will also serve as means to strengthen connections between Franco resources in Maine and similar resources in New England and Canada.
Musee culturel du Mont-Carmel (Lille, ME)
The state of Maine is embraced by the geography of French Canada. Immigrants from the Provinces of Québec and New Brunswick came to Maine in large numbers beginning in the eighteeth century.
Maine has largest per-capita Franco-American population in America. Cities like Lewiston-Auburn have a population that is 60 percent Franco-American and many regions have retained a distinct cultural identity rooted in Franco, Quebec, and Acadian tradition.
Maine is one of only seven states with over 10 percent of the population being Franco-American; the six New England states and Louisiana. Maine's Franco roots are a rich part of its heritage and an essential component to the diversity and authenticity of Maine's character. Preserving this heritage through the support of contemporary Franco arts is essential in keeping the richness of Maine culture vibrant and accessible.
An initiative to promote and develop Maine Franco arts and culture focuses on identifying the arts and cultural assets within Maine, creating a strategy of empowerment for the sector, and exploring ways of maintaining beneficial networks on the local, regional, national, and international level.
Songs Beyond Borders, 2014 Franco artist exchange between Maine and New Brunswick