First Exhibit of the Year Features Artists Jillian Demeri '82 and Michael Terrile '85

First Exhibit of the Year Features Artists Jillian Demeri '82 and Michael Terrile '85
First Exhibit of the Year Features Artists Jillian Demeri '82 and Michael Terrile '85

The Governor’s Academy is excited to exhibit the works of artists Jillian Demeri '82 and the late Michael Terrile '85 in the Peter C. Remis Lobby of the Wilkie Center for the Performing Arts from October 10 through November 7.

This exhibition brings together the vibrant acrylic landscapes of the late Terrile and the fluid, minimalist watercolors of Demeri, highlighting the friendship and artistic dialogue the two shared over the course of decades.

Demeri majored in Visual Arts at Bowdoin College and studied abroad in Rome, with further training at the Museum School, MassArt, and UMass Dartmouth. Originally a printmaker, Demeri’s practice evolved into a watercolor style defined by minimalism, layered transparency, and sensitivity to place. Her work reflects her Cape Ann roots, drawing on the rhythms of the ocean, granite quarries, and the creative community around her. From 1994 to 2003, Jillian owned and directed the JDemeri Gallery in Rockport, MA, and has since exhibited widely across New England. She hopes her work brings viewers “a sense of joy and wonder.” For more information about her, please visit www.jilliandemeri.com.

L to R: Jillian Demeri '82 and Governor's photography teacher Cheryle St. Onge

 

Terrile grew up in Haverhill, Massachusetts, and was a proud 1985 graduate of The Governor’s Academy (then Governor Dummer Academy). He went on to study Studio Art and Art History at Franklin and Marshall College, later earning his Master’s in Art Education from MassArt and an MFA from Vermont College. Over his 34-year career as a beloved art teacher at Hampstead Central School, Terrile inspired generations of students while continuing his studio practice. His acrylic landscape paintings strike a balance between representation and abstraction, infused with vibrant color, energy, and a profound reverence for place. Visit Terrile's website to see his full catalog of works.

At the time of his unexpected passing in June 2025, Terrile was planning this joint exhibition with longtime friend, collaborator, and fellow graduate of The Governor's Academy (Class of 1982), Demeri. Thanks to the efforts of his family, Demeri, and Governor’s faculty member and exhibition curator Shanna Fliegel, Stillness Between Us now stands as a celebration of his artistry, his teaching legacy, and his joyful spirit.

"My work lies at the intersection of representation and abstraction," Michael once wrote. "Each painting is a thoughtful, hands-on process from start to finish, honoring both the history of landscape painting and the physical presence of the canvas itself."

Artists' Reception

On Friday, October 10, the Academy hosted an artists' reception for the Govs community and friends and family of Demeri and Terrile.

Govs students enjoying an installation of Terrile's paintings and paintbox.

 

Stillness Between Us will be displayed in the Peter C. Remis Lobby in the Wilkie Center for the Performing Arts on The Governor’s Academy campus until November 7, 2025. Please take some time to experience the tribute in paint to friendship, memory, and landscape. The gallery is open to the public from 8:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m., Monday through Friday, and by appointment on Saturday and Sunday. Please contact Shanna Fliegel to make an appointment.

Siblings Anthony and Catherine Terrile stand beside a sketch of themselves created by artist Jillian Demeri, honoring their late father, Michael Terrile.