Archipelago, a beloved downtown Rockland art center that has showcased works from Maine island artists for a quarter century, will permanently close its doors at the end of 2025. The Island Institute's Main Street storefront has served as a cornerstone of the local creative community since opening in 2000.

Laura England, associate director of marketing for the Island Institute, confirmed the closure in an email statement on October 9th. "At the end of 2025, Archipelago will be closing," England announced. She explained that in 2026, the Island Institute will begin converting the first floor into a new community engagement space where employees, partner organizations, and other community members will gather.

"Although a bittersweet transition, we're proud of the many wonderful years of the store's work to provide opportunities for Maine's creative economy," England stated. The impact of Archipelago's quarter-century operation has been substantial, with the store returning more than $5.5 million to participating artists and makers since its inception. "We are proud to have been part of the growth in Maine's creative economy," she added.

According to the Island Institute's website, Archipelago has played a transformative role in advancing the careers of more than 1,500 Maine residents since 2000. The center has been instrumental in Rockland's emergence as a dynamic hub for arts and culture, establishing itself as a prominent element of Maine's broader creative economy.

As an economic development program operated by the Island Institute, Archipelago has provided extensive support to local artists beyond simply selling their work. Staff members dedicate over 400 hours annually to mentoring artists, helping them develop the skills and knowledge necessary to successfully operate arts-based small businesses. This comprehensive approach has helped countless creators turn their artistic passions into sustainable livelihoods.

The center also hosts the annual Artists and Makers Conference every April, which features workshops, keynote speakers, and networking opportunities designed to support art-based businesses throughout Maine. This event has become a cornerstone gathering for the state's creative community, fostering collaboration and professional development among artists and craftspeople.

England indicated that the Island Institute will share more detailed information about the future community space next year, though specific plans have not yet been revealed. The transformation represents a new chapter for the organization while honoring the legacy of supporting Maine's vibrant creative community that Archipelago established over its remarkable 25-year run.