This Heritage Print, published in December 2002, is an 11 x 16 reproduction of a water color painted in 1978 by the late John Doepp. Doepp is a New York City artist known in the Brunswick area for his connection to the Maine State Music Theater and the Chocolate Church Arts Center. Last Christmas at Gurnet is a nostalgic look at the old bridge connecting Brunswick and Harpswell (Maine) and the little store (see Yankee Coast, Robert PT Coffin, House on the Waves) immortalized by the poetry and prose of Brunswick famed writer, Robert Peter Trisram Coffin. Doepp, saddened by the news that the State of Maine planned to demolish the store to make room for a larger bridge, was moved to paint this colorful and unique scene. Notice the car with the Christmas tree tied on backwards (Jack would do that) and the circling Navy P-3 patrol plane doubling as an evening star. Doepp’s unusual use of dark colors, contrasting with the yellow winter sunset and Christmas lights, make this a very unusual print.
This limited edition of 350 prints are numbered and signed by the artist, but none remain. However, 75 printer proofs are all that remain of this rare print.
Carded and wrapped prints are available at the center for $75.00, or they can be ordered tubed and mailed for $80.00. Matted and framed prints are $195.00 at the Center or $215.00 including shipping. Your choice of Gold or Silver frame.
