The Arts on Our Lewiston-Auburn Campus

The art of first impressions

When arriving at the University of Southern Maine (USM) Lewiston-Auburn campus, you will be greeted by the sunny and open Atrium Gallery, which is free to visit and welcomes students and the public year-round.

The gallery exhibits a rotating schedule of solo and group shows — featuring painting, drawing, photography, sculpture, and contemporary crafts — with a special focus on Maine-based artists and open-juried exhibits showcasing our local talent.

Two patrons embrace at an exhibit opening in the Atrium Gallery.
A parent and two kids take in a sculpture during an art opening.

Celebrating our Franco‑American history

Housed within our Lewiston-Auburn campus Library, the Franco‑American Collection is one of Maine’s largest archives dedicated to the cultural heritage of its Franco‑American communities.

With over 15,000 items — including photographs, newspapers, rare books, oral histories, textiles, artifacts, and personal papers — the Collection preserves local history and celebrates the cultural narrative spanning immigration, music, architecture, industry, and everyday life.

Two pieces of clothing from the Franco-American Collection.
Two people examine a framed map on the wall during an exhibit.

Mapping the past, present, and future: Osher Map Library

The Osher Map Library and Smith Center for Cartographic Education is opening a second center on the Lewiston Campus in the fall of 2025.

One of the nation’s finest collections of rare maps, atlases, and globes, this premier academic and cultural resource welcomes everyone from local school groups to international scholars.

Through exhibitions, public programs, and educational outreach, the library brings the world of cartography to life, making it a cornerstone of cultural engagement not only for the USM community but for all of Southern Maine.

Join us for events and exhibits from the Franco-American Collection, Atrium Gallery, Osher Map Library and Smith Center for Cartographic Education, and so much more!

Upcoming exhibits & events on our Lewiston-Auburn campus