Our Organization

Propelling the Creative Community

Our Mission

Engine connects and empowers artists through equitable access to community, resources, and creative opportunities.

Our Vision

Engine envisions a community with equitable artist opportunity; where art, design, and creativity are valued, accessible, and celebrated by all.

Our Manifesto

We believe that art should integrate, not alienate. The arts should not just be an idea or a feeling; it should be a reality accessible to all.

Engine's History

In 2010, Engine was founded to propel cultural, social, and economic revitalization through creative community programming in Biddeford, Maine’s historic downtown. The 501(c)3 nonprofit first focused on bringing together artists, makers, and local businesses to knit a culture and creative economy filled with connection and inspiration through education, youth programming, gallery openings, and free community events. As Biddeford’s renaissance has progressed, Engine has evolved its offerings to meet the needs of the community while continuing to drive creative commerce.

Founded on the belief that artistic expression and creative vibrancy are the gateways to cultural, social, and economic revitalization, Engine’s programs are designed to ensure accessibility and inclusion, with an emphasis on free community events, such as a seasonal ArtWalk, annual FringeFest, and regular gallery exhibitions. In 2022, the organization launched IGNITE, an arts business incubator, and in 2023 Engine became the fiscal sponsor for Common Roots Studio Mobile Art Bus.

Entity Structure

Engine is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization (effective December 2010) incorporated in the State of Maine.

Engine’s Financial Statements and IRS 990 filings are available at our Guidestar profile.

What people are saying about Engine...

Partnering with UNE, Engine has offered professional level gallery and classroom experiences for undergraduate and local students enrolled in arts classes as well as a venue to see art by both regionally and nationally recognized artists.

Stephen Burt

University of New England

Engine is and has been a focal point of downtown Biddeford for many years for so many artists and creative spirits. It is a go-to for me: a retreat, a destination, a source for connection and ideas and community.

Laura Dunn

Artist

Engine is a wonderful place to work surrounded by wonderful people who have infused so much love and light into the downtown of Biddeford. I cannot imagine a bright future in the town without this wonderful organization.

Savanna Pettengill

Artist & Arts Teacher

Engine fuels the creativity of our city, making it the hub for youth and adults alike to feed their spirits, expand their skills, and create a better future for all of us.

Stephanie Edwards

Community Action Committee