Bright, Bold, and Unforgettable: A Visit to ACK ME Arts Gallery in Freeport, Maine
- Kate Curcio
- Mar 26
- 2 min read
When we checked into The Craic House in Freeport, I was already amazed. The design, the details, everything about it felt intentional and inspiring. So when I found out that the designer, Stephen Young, had his very own art gallery right next door, I couldn’t wait to see it. And let me tell you it did not disappoint.
Stephen personally took us on a tour of ACK ME Arts Gallery, and from the moment you step inside, you’re hit with this burst of color and energy. The space is bright, playful, and completely inviting. There’s even a brightly painted car right in the middle of the gallery, which perfectly sets the tone for how creative and unexpected everything feels.
What I loved most, though, was hearing Stephen’s story.
Before stepping into the art world, he was designing cottages in Nantucket. To stage those homes, he started painting on plywood just something fun and different to bring the spaces to life. But people took notice. Word spread, galleries started reaching out, and before he knew it, he was selling his work. The organic way it all came together makes his art feel even more special.
Stephen walked us through his creative process, and it’s fascinating. He truly thinks outside the box. There is no rigid structure, just movement, color, and expression. You can even see where he creates his pieces, with paint splashes and evidence of the joy that goes into every single work. And that’s exactly what his art feels like: pure joy.
The pieces themselves are incredibly vibrant, with a strong nautical influence that makes them perfect for any coastal Maine home. They feel like summer, like the ocean, like everything we love about being here.
The gallery is also filled with thoughtfully designed gifts like dish towels, trays, stickers, postcards, sneakers, greeting cards, ornaments, pillows… basically, you’re going to want everything. I’m already planning my trip back for one of those pillows.
If you’re visiting Freeport, this is an absolute must-stop. In the summer, Stephen opens up the garage-style wall of the gallery and spills the experience outside, making it even more fun and interactive.
ACK ME Arts Gallery isn’t just a place to look at art, it’s a place to feel it.
Warmly,
Kate
ACK ME ARTS GALLERY - FREEPORT, ME
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