PORT CLYDE — “The spirit of resilience echoes through the coastal community of Port Clyde, Maine,” said a news release, “and this July, it takes center stage in a remarkable photography exhibition sponsored by the Herring Gut Coastal Science Center, Port Clyde Strong Committee and Cushman Creative.”

The #portclydestrong photography exhibition will open to the public on July 1, inviting visitors to embark on a visual journey through the triumphs and tribulations of Port Clyde's spirit. The exhibition will be located on the second floor of the Monhegan Boat Line in Port Clyde and runs July 1 through October. Hours are 8 a.m. - 7 p.m.

Titled #portclydestrong, the exhibition encapsulates the indomitable spirit and strength of the community in the face of adversity.

#portclydestrong is a collaborative effort made possible through the generosity of shop owners and community members. Photographer Cheryl Clegg, owner of Cheryl Clegg Photography, located in Waltham, Massachusetts, who spends her summers in Maine, has captured the essence of this coastal community, according to Herring Gut. Through her lens, she offers a poignant visual narrative that reflects the heart and soul of this coastal enclave.

In the wake of significant challenges, including the devastating Port Clyde Village fire on September 27, 2023, and the relentless fury of coastal storms, the community has rallied together with unwavering fortitude and solidarity. The exhibition serves as a tribute to these shared experiences and a testament to the enduring spirit that defines Port Clyde.

"We are thrilled to showcase Cheryl Clegg's photography, which beautifully portrays the strength of our village through portraits of those affected by the fire and storms. Images include fishermen, business owners, and community members of all ages," says Sally Crusan, Director of Development at the Herring Gut Coastal Science Center. "Cheryl has captured the essence of #portclydestrong, reminding us of the collective courage and determination that continue to inspire us all."

Karan Cushman, CEO of Cushman Creative, was a strategic partner and creative agency on this project. Cushman also serves on the Port Clyde Strong committee.

“The fire may have left a visual hole, but the heartbeat of Port Clyde is stronger than ever,” said Cushman. “The community has reinvented itself in creative ways for locals and visitors to experience and celebrate.”

In addition to the main exhibition, select photographs will be on display at various local businesses, including Squid Ink, Village Ice Cream, Herring Gut Coastal Science Center, Fresh Catch, Off the Dock Lobster and Marshall Point Lighthouse. These additional displays provide visitors with the opportunity to experience #portclydestrong throughout the community.

For more information about the #portclydestrong photography exhibition visit herringgut.org or portclydestrong.org.

Contact: Sally Crusan, Herring Gut Coastal Science Center, 59 Factory Road, Port Clyde, ME 04855, 207-372-8677, scrusan@herringgut.org 

About Herring Gut Coastal Science Center: Herring Gut Coastal Science Center is celebrating its 25th year of educating students and communities about the connections between the ocean, inland waters, and economy of Maine. They are open Mon-Fri from 8am to 4pm and offer a wide variety of marine science programming for all ages.

About Port Clyde Strong Fund: The St. George Community Development Corporation established the Port Clyde Strong Fund in response to many requests from the community after the devastating Port Clyde fire. Falling under their Community Good program, the Port Clyde Strong Fund is a restricted fund that meets the needs of those St. George neighbors and businesses impacted by the tragic fires on the Port Clyde waterfront. Through these collective efforts, our community has begun to heal and rebuild, transforming tragedy into a symbol of hope and unity. 

About Cushman Creative: Cushman Creative, is a branding and marketing firm that uses the power of design to help health science organizations communicate their value and advance human health.

About Cheryl Clegg Photography: Cheryl Clegg is an award-winning Boston based commercial photographer with over two decades of successful projects. Cheryl Clegg delivers emotional images that linger. More than filling white space, each project tells a story or burns an impression into the mind of its audience. cherylcleggphoto@verizon.net, 617.268.2266 397, Moody Street, Waltham, MA 02453