Henry Abbott ’27: Studio Assistant at The Barter Art House

By Henry Abbott ’27
Image of artwork and information about Matt Barter and the Barter Art House

Matt Barter is a Maine-based artist who runs the Barter Art House, a gallery dedicated to works of Matt and his later father Phillip Barter. Working as his studio assistant, I helped Matt:

  • Maintain and run his gallery studio, assisting in sales and the creation of artworks
  • Create new materials to show Matt and Phillip's artwork and promote the gallery, such as books, t-shirts, and posters
  • Discover and expand opportunities to show artwork via networking, grand-writing, and audience research

Alongside several creative skills such as graphic design, painting, and general ingenuity, my time with Matt taught me about the resourcefulness needed to make a living selling your own work. My internship at the Barter Art House has provided me with the skills to work independently, network, and support others on their journeys.