When people think of art on the Vineyard, pretty seascapes and colorful landscapes might be the first images that come to mind. In just about every gallery, you can see birds and boats, flowers and farm animals. And why not? They sell. Like touristy T-shirts and nautical knickknacks, there’s a demand for mementos and art that feel Vineyardy.

But the Island has a lot of artists who are inspired by so much more than seagulls and lighthouses – and some even reject the idea that they should be creating stereotypical waterside fare just because of where we live.

In this Arts Issue of the magazine, we’ve tried to capture a wide range of how Vineyard artists influence our community. There’s plenty of visual art in the following pages, but we didn’t stop there. We sit down with Oscar-winning actress Patricia Neal (page 34), we delve into the state of literature on the Island at our independent bookstores (page 26), we visit a free bed and breakfast that’s exclusively for visiting artists (page 52), and more.

With the state of the economy, many artists, galleries, and arts organizations are struggling, but artistic endeavors can’t be undervalued. Rather they can be supported in various ways: Go see a play, attend a concert, peruse a gallery – whatever touches your spirit and fits with your wallet.

The magazine is proud to celebrate the arts. It is also a finalist for the 2009 National City and Regional Magazine Awards in two categories: General Excellence and Ancillary Publications for the Home & Garden magazine. It’s an honor to be nominated, as last year we redesigned the magazine’s look. Our growing number of readers is testimony to our success, and the professional recognition is a bonus. Thanks to all who support the magazine!