Their original location was later followed by shops in Portland, Freeport, Kennebunkport, and finally Ogunquit. They relocated to Maine and opened their Boothbay Harbor shop in 1971. “But curating and displaying the art and crafts drew us in, and propelled us to keep at it.”
“It was a bit of a hippie shop, reflective of the times,” says Scaglione. Their first venture featured work by former classmates along with a hodgepodge of crafts. “We had no idea what we were doing, and certainly had no sense that it would have any longevity,” says Heacock.
Shortly after graduating from RISD, Heacock and Scaglione opened their first shop in Vermont. And so do scores of tourists and summer residents who can’t resist the lovely window displays filled with an eclectic mix of goods. Established customers check in to see what new finds Abacus has in stock. Their approach-classic products mixed with fresh discoveries-is perhaps the reason why Abacus has become an anchor of Maine’s retail scene. Some of the inventory has been part of the Abacus mix since the beginning, and new products are being introduced all the time. The two gallery owners trawl the country for new treasures and receive daily submissions from local and national artisans. Customers will find one-of-a-kind clocks made from recycled materials, classic and contemporary jewelry and watches, glass lamps, eco-friendly throws, charming cards, handcrafted wooden boxes, pottery collections, and paintings-all of which reflect the unusual, often whimsical design sense that Heacock and Scaglione have become known for. Stepping into their Portland shop, it’s easy to become immediately enveloped by the very qualities that make Abacus successful: warmth, a welcoming spirit, and a sense of familiarity.Įach Abacus Gallery location showcases a wide array of beautiful objects from around the country. Since the two partners opened their first Abacus Gallery nearly four decades ago (repeat: four decades!), it has evolved into a must-visit destination. While there’s no shortage of stylish retail destinations in Maine, Abacus Gallery is one-stop shopping for fine American crafts.Ĭan two Rhode Island School of Design graduates with degrees in architecture and graphic design adapt to the fickle world of retail? Yes, if they happen to have the taste, talent, and style of Dana Heacock and Sal Scaglione. I could live in that house.By Veronique Mcaree | Photgraphy Amanda Kowalsi And I’m glad I got the August page, since it’s gorgeous. Isn’t it nice when businesses are helpful? Just sort of puts you in a good mood.
ABACUS CALENDARS IN MAINE PLUS
Drat! Who needs two Aprils, especially when it’s August? So I called Abacus (800.206.2166 or visit the Web site at and the folks there graciously sent another 2008 calendar, plus I got an early chance to order 2009. But this year when it was time for August 2008, I found April 2008 instead. You display it in a plastic easel and each month when you change the page, you get this wonderful illustration of New England life. The illustrator, Dana Heacock, paints from photos he takes of churches, dogs, flowers and other everyday southern Maine scenes. Love it! Ever since that Christmas, I’ve always ordered myself the next year’s calendar - the illustrations are so cheerful, homelike and cozy. One Christmas Zanny gave me this wonderful desktop calendar from Abacus Publishing in Boothbay Harbor, Me. My brother and sister-in-law, Michael and Zanny, live in Portland, Me., and are the New England branch of the Southern-bound Wood family.
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