Five new works of art have been purchased for the Farnsworth Art Museum by the Friends of the Farnsworth Collection at their annual meeting in July.

The works of art include a major oil painting by Alex Katz, titled “Rudy,” from 1980, which depicts the poet and artist Rudy Burckhardt. Other artworks purchased are “Breakwater, Matinicus,” an oil painting by Sam Cady; “Rahab,” a bronze sculpture by John von Bergen; “Iceboats to the Windward Mark,” an etching by Richard Saltonstall; and “Chaise Gabion,” a steel and stone sculpture by Celeste Roberge.

Now in its second year, the Friends of the Farnsworth Collection doubled its initial membership to 15, significantly increasing the funds available to the museum for the purchase of artwork. Modeled on similar programs in other museums, the Friends group began in the summer of 2002. Each member contributes $5,000 annually, which is pooled with funds from the museum’s own collections endowment, allowing the museum to purchase significant works of art that would otherwise be beyond their means.

“We are thankful for the generous support of the Friends of the Farnsworth Collection, which was formed to enhance the museum’s varied collections,” museum director Christopher Crosman said. “This year, the group has chosen pieces that are contemporary in nature, honoring that portion of the museum’s mission that calls for the Farnsworth to present works of art by artists currently active in Maine.”

For additional information about the Friends of the Farnsworth Collection or to join the group, call Crosman at 596-6457, ext. 114.