The former Bernard’s Jewelers in the Pedestrian Mall at 179 Essex St., Salem, Mass. is slated to be the new home for the Salem Arts Association (SAA) jointly with the Salem Collective of Artists and Musicians (SCAM). This pivotal space for the arts community is being made available by the Peabody Essex Museum which owns the Bernard’s property. This new venue will now be called Salem Arts Center with occupancy of the lease slated for July 1.
SAA President, Ellen Hardy has said that “For over 20 years, I have waited for an opportunity to have an art center and SAA is grateful to the PEM for this chance to share our talents and engage the public.” Likewise, Laura Potter of SCAM added, “I share Ellen’s excitement about this generous opportunity the PEM is giving the local art community and look forward to working with SAA to create an art center for locals and visitors alike. I can’t wait to show what we can accomplish together.”
A soft opening reception is scheduled for Thursday, July 23rd from 4-8 p.m. A grand opening reception is scheduled for Thursday, September 10th from 4-8 pm. For more information, including art space and scheduling, contact SAA President, Ellen Hardy at <egh.arts@gmail.com> or 508-783-6591 and through www.SalemArtsAssociation.org or Laura Potter at <salemcollective@gmail.com> or through www.facebook.com/salemcollective
