OLD TOWN – The works of Milford artist Helena Bosse are on display through Feb. 25 at Old Town Public Library.

The woman began drawing at age 5, but says she didn’t start painting seriously until she was 25.

“At that time in 1974, I began studying under the direction of Ed Healy of Bangor, an excellent pastel and portrait artist,” she explained. “I received a solid foundation in drawing, portraiture, as well as working in both pastel and acrylic.”

In the 1980s, Bosse took several classes in watercolor from Michael Vermette of Old Town. Her favorite subjects include landscapes, seascapes, flowers and nature in general. “Being an avid gardener, and living in our beautiful state of Maine provides an endless supply of wonderful possibilities for paintings,” she said. After raising four children, Bosse decided to return to school, attending the University of Maine to receive a bachelor’s degree in art education in 1990.

“I taught one year at Howland High School as a replacement teacher,” she said. “Then, in 1993, I began a new art program for the Dr. Lewis Libby School in Milford from where my children had graduated. I work with kindergarten through grade eight and have completed eight years. I also teach one day a week at Bradley’s Viola Rand, a K-5 school.

“I love working with children of all ages and find it very stimulating being a part of our school system,” Bosse said.

In 1993, she painted a portrait of the late Thomas N. Graves for the Dr. Lewis Libby School, where he was principal for more than 25 years.

In Old Town, Bosse teaches adults in the adult education program has been president of the Old Town Art Society for many years.

“My summers begin by collecting a dozen or so of my best artist friends and renting a house on Monhegan to spend a whole week of painting and critiquing,” Bosse said. “The rest of the summer, I like to paint on location throughout the state, as well as my backyard, working in oil and watercolor. I enjoy painting in all media, as well as various forms of printing and 3-D sculpture.”

Bosse also is a member of the barbershop-style singers, Sweet Adelines, tap dances with the High Steppers and carries the flag for the Governor’s Marching Band in parades throughout the state.

“This spring, my latest thrill has been to join a Dixieland Band, 6 Basin Street, an all-woman’s band, playing the drums,” Bosse said. “Needless to say, I enjoy life to the fullest.”