September First Friday
"Poetry of Place"
Friday, September 4
5:30 PM - 7:30 PM
In Poetry of Place, Ellen DeMaria explores how a place lingers in memory—through changing light, shifting atmosphere, movement, color, and fragments of remembered experience. Working in watercolor, acrylic, ink, and mixed media, she moves between recognizable landscapes, expressive abstractions, and intimate still lifes.
DeMaria’s paintings are not intended as literal records of particular scenes. Instead, they seek the feeling beneath what is seen: the energy of a passing moment, the quiet of an imagined crossing, the tension of changing weather, or the presence created when light settles around familiar objects. Together, the works suggest that place can be observed, remembered, imagined, and carried within us.
The opening reception for Poetry of Place will take place at Arts on Main on Friday, September 4, from 5:30 to 7:30 PM. Light bites will be served, and beer and wine will be available for purchase. This event is free and open to the public. The show will be on display at Arts on Main until Saturday, September 26. The gallery is open Wednesday - Saturday from 12-5pm.
ABOUT THE ARTIST
Ellen DeMaria
Ellen DeMaria is a Virginia artist whose atmospheric paintings are inspired by memory, light, and the character of places both real and imagined. She works in watercolor, acrylic, ink, and mixed media, bringing together transparent passages, expressive line, layered surfaces, and varying degrees of abstraction.
DeMaria began painting in childhood, inspired by her grandmother’s watercolors, and has continued to develop her work through independent study, classes, and workshops. Her creative background also includes a degree in landscape architecture.
A signature member of the Virginia Watercolor Society, DeMaria has received awards for her watercolor and watermedia work in statewide and regional exhibitions. Her paintings have been exhibited throughout Virginia and are held in private collections across the United States. She shows regularly at Arts on Main in Gloucester, On the Hill Gallery in Yorktown, and Pop Shop Too in Newport News.
For DeMaria, a painting does not need to describe every detail of a place. Instead, it can preserve the atmosphere of a moment—the feeling of having been there, dreamed of it, or remembered it differently over time.
Live music will be performed by Tom Euler during the First Friday opening reception. Many thanks to our September First Friday Music Sponsors, Holly & Frank Gorse!
Tom Euler is an award-winning singer/songwriter from coastal Virginia whose songs have attained global appeal and success. For over a decade, his performances have enthralled audiences, blending thoughtful, powerful guitar work inspired by icons like Stevie Ray Vaughan, Luther Allison, and Gary Moore to list a few. His vocal prowess, characterized by an exceptional harmonic and dynamic range, reflects the influence of Chris Cornell, one of his most admired vocalists. A versatile and evolving artist, Euler continues to refine his craft and expand his creative horizons.
Raised on a rich tapestry of musical genres—including classic rock, blues, grunge, metal, punk, pop, R&B, classical, jazz, and even musical theater—Euler’s diverse influences shape his distinctive sound and eclectic songwriting style. His discography includes the demo EP Fool Me Once (2016), followed by two full-length albums: the blues-rock infused Blues Got My Back (2019) and the indie-alternative departure OBEY (2022), showcasing his ability to traverse genres with authenticity and skill.
Today, Euler performs in two distinct formats that highlight the breadth of his artistry. His solo acoustic sets offer an intimate glimpse into his songwriting finesse and wide-ranging influences, while his electrifying performances with the Tom Euler Trio emphasize his blues-rock roots and virtuosic guitar work. Whether alone or with his band, Euler delivers an unforgettable experience that bridges technical brilliance with emotional resonance.