This week, there are a lot of questions. First up: What happens when an artist and a writer build a life together, raising a family, spending summers on Martha’s Vineyard, and recording what they discover along the way? On July 17, starting at 5 pm at the Eisenhauer Gallery, the question will be answered in an evening of books, paintings, and Island moments. Stop in to discover more.
Then we’re asked, What happens to a person who wants an abortion but cannot get one?
“The Turnaway Play,” with actress Amy Brenneman, on July 16 at the Old Whaling Church, will answer that one. Join M.V. Sexual Wellness and Reproductive Equity Now for a presentation of “The Turnaway Play,” directed by the Island Theatre Workshop. Inspired by the revelatory Turnaway Project, a 10-year scientific research project led by MacArthur fellow Dr. Diana Greene Foster, the play brings to life stories of women who were denied access to abortion care while exploring that essential question: What happens to a person who cannot get one? Tickets online starting at $50; mv-swell.checkoutpage.com/turnawayplay.
One of the best ways to answer deep questions, in my opinion, is by reading. Join authors this week at Edgartown Books for conversation and book signings. On the 17th from 2 to 4 pm, Annabelle Gurwitch, author of “The End of My Life is Killing Me,” will be there talking about her book, described as a “hilariously and deeply affecting meditation on mortality.” Then on the 23rd, Elisa M. Speranza will be there also from 2 to 4 pm, signing her book “Triage,” an intimate portrait of a woman’s hard-won journey through love, loss, and a quest for redemption.
From July 18 through the 23rd, celebrate catboats, MVAA artists, Manuel Swartz Roberts, and our nation’s 250th birthday with the Old Sculpin Gallery’s event, Sail Sculpin 2026. Stop in during its business hours and explore art, chat with artists, and more!
If you’re hungry this week, the FARM Institute has incredible classes lined up: Sourdough Basics with Matt from Beetlebung Farm on July 20, Sausage Making with Tyler Potter of the Swimming Pig on July 21, Ice Cream Making on the Farm and Cooking From the Island: What’s Fresh and What’s Local on July 22, and Fermentation for Beginners: Kimchi, on July 23. Head to thetrustees.org/things-to-do and find out details there!
Birthday shout-outs this week go to Alison Wilson (July 20) of the Edgartown Collection, and to Skip Finley, celebrated local author and historian, and the Rev. Joseph Pasala of Good Shepherd Parish (both July 23)! And a “get better soon” to my best friend Abby Gardner — it’s not often one gets hit by a car, that’s nothing to joke about, and she’s recovering fine, but consider this your reminder that during these busy summer weeks (and always!) watching out for pedestrians crossing the street is a must. Be safe out there, friends!
