In Maine, across the country, and around the world, the creative economy provides jobs, fosters innovation, drives tourism, and promotes culture. Through Island Institute’s small business work, including mentoring and retail support offered by Archipelago, we strive to support and showcase the businesses and work of the artists and makers who help promote the beauty and endurance of Maine’s islands and coast.

Explore our Creative Economy Hub to learn and connect with other artists, gain tools and resources to support your business, and discover new opportunities for inspiration.

2023 Artists & Makers Conference

Artists and makers from across Maine came together, in-person, for the first time since 2019.

Meet a Maine Arist

Meet A Maine Artist

Hear from a variety of Maine artists as they share their unique stories, their personal journeys, and the things that inspire them on a daily basis.

Daily Art Voices

In this pre-recorded audio series, Maine artists and makers share insights on their creative processes, self-care, and more.

Learning Studio

Learning Studio

Resources, how-to videos, and presentations to help provide artists and makers with tools for growing and building their businesses.

Support a Maine artist

Archipelago, Island Institute’s store and gallery, showcases the work of 300+ Maine artists and makers who make up our state's creative economy.

Event Recordings

Check out our recorded webinars and video footage from past events to learn practical skills, listen to inspiring stories, and stay digitally connected.

Blog

Blog

Hear from artists and industry experts for insights about the importance of art and craft in Maine and the stories of our creative economy.

Resources

Resources

In search of grant opportunities, state organizations, and other financial resources to support artists and arts-based businesses? Check out our curated list here.

About Us

Learn more about Island Institute and Archipelago, and how we're working to support Maine's artists and makers and strengthen our state's creative economy.

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artists and makers

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Support Maine artists and the
creative economy

Shop Archipelago for unique Maine-made items and help sustain our island and working waterfront communities.

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