Marginal Way Preservation Fund Participates in the Centennial Plein Air Event
The Marginal Way Preservation Fund (MWPF) was proud to participate in the Ogunquit Plein Air Event, joining the community in celebrating the 100th anniversary of the Marginal Way. As part of this special Centennial celebration, the Fund presented the Centennial Plein Air Award for Best Depiction of the Marginal Way to acclaimed artist Lyn Asselta, along with a $1,000 cash prize sponsored by the Fund in honor of this once-in-a-lifetime milestone.
This year’s Plein Air event held added significance as it commemorated the Centennial of the Marginal Way—the beloved mile-long coastal path that has offered peace, beauty, and inspiration for generations. In recognition of this historic moment, more than 100 professional and amateur artists gathered throughout Perkins Cove and along the Marginal Way, capturing sweeping ocean views, rugged cliffs, gardens, and the timeless beauty of Ogunquit’s iconic shoreline.
The event was thoughtfully co-chaired and brought to life by Jen Lewer and Amy Forbes, whose vision and leadership united artists, volunteers, and supporters for a vibrant weekend of creativity, connection, and celebration—honoring Ogunquit’s deep artistic roots.
Honoring the Spirit of the Marginal Way Through Art
In sponsoring the award for Best Depiction of the Marginal Way, the Marginal Way Preservation Fund was honored to recognize Lyn Asselta’s evocative and heartfelt rendering of the path by the sea—an artwork that beautifully captured both the landscape and emotional resonance of this cherished place.
“All who walk the Marginal Way know the sense of wonder and renewal it inspires,” said Allison Ramsey, Executive Director of the Marginal Way Preservation Fund. “We were thrilled to honor Lyn Asselta’s work, which so movingly reflects the spirit of this special place during its Centennial year.”
Ramsey also reflected on Ogunquit’s artistic heritage, noting, “Ogunquit was originally founded as an artist colony—a haven for painters and dreamers drawn to the magic of Perkins Cove and the Marginal Way. Through this event, Amy and Jen have beautifully carried that tradition forward, rekindling the spirit of art and culture in our community.”
A Deeply Personal Connection
Lyn Asselta shared that, among the many accolades she has received throughout her career, the Best Depiction of the Marginal Way Award holds special meaning:
“I grew up at the other end of Shore Road in Cape Neddick. My first art lessons came from Ned (Edward) Hergleroth, who loved to paint rocks, as I do now. As soon as I got my driver’s license, the Ogunquit Art Museum and Perkins Cove became my favorite getaways.
But the Marginal Way was always where I went to think—where I walked with friends, and where I sat whenever life was difficult. Even during the decades I lived away from Maine, I returned every year to walk the Marginal Way. Now that I’ve moved back to Maine, I still stop for a walk whenever I visit family in York County. To me, the Marginal Way has always embodied my deep affection for the Maine coast.”
Celebrating Art, Legacy, and Preservation
Through its participation in the Centennial Plein Air Event, the Marginal Way Preservation Fund was honored to help celebrate the artistic traditions that have long defined Ogunquit, while also supporting the preservation of the natural beauty that continues to inspire artists and visitors alike.