Meet the Team: Joseph Coté

Joseph Coté’s keenness for theater and for art have come together in his role as a docent since joining the Museum’s cadre of guides in 2019.  The study of a character on the page and on the canvas has captivated his imagination since his years as a student of acting with James S. Bost and of painting with Vincent A. Hartgen, both legendary stalwarts in their fields during his days at the University of Maine at Orono in 1967 to 1971. 

Intertwining both threads through his life on stage and at the easel, while dedicated to a thirty-four year career in the private events sector of the international five-star hotel arena,  opened his eyes to the rich diversity of people far and wide and the impact on all five senses while living and working on all five continents.  Joseph’s many experiences enriched all three artistic and professional paths of his life.

Joseph retired in 2018, re-planting one foot back in his homeland and allowing the other to lead him back to pied-a-terre refuges in London, Paris and Cassis on the Cote d’Azur.  He can often be found acting on mid-coast stages, in the classroom or on Zoom exploring the works of William Shakespeare or of Maine-inspired  artists with Senior College students. Additionally, Joseph might be at his easel coaxing moody watercolors in secluded coves and forest paths or cavorting somewhere between Buenos Aires, Marrakech and Shanghai planning and producing memorable events for long-time clients.