Monsters & Myths
An Open Show at Salem Arts Association Gallery
The Salem Arts Association invited to submit work for “Monsters & Myths,” an open exhibition at our Pickering Wharf gallery, just in time for Salem’s spooky season!
We called on artists to explore the creatures, legends, and stories that haunt our imaginations. From ancient folklore and supernatural beings to modern-day fears and personal phantoms, this show celebrates the power of myth and mystery in all its forms.
In this show, artists delve into the realm of the eerie and the extraordinary, celebrating the rich tapestry of folklore, legends, and the fantastical creatures that haunt our imaginations. As Salem is renowned for its history of witchcraft and supernatural tales, we encourage artists to explore their interpretations of monsters and myths, whether they be drawn from personal experiences, cultural stories, or classic literature. This is a perfect opportunity to showcase each artist's unique vision of the mysterious and the macabre.
- Opening Reception: Friday September 18, 2026, 6:00 – 8:00PM
- Exhibition Dates: Saturday September 18 – Saturday November 7, 2026
- Gallery Hours: Friday, Saturday, Sunday from 12:00 – 6:00 p.m.
| Our Guest Juror: Hannah Capra is a queer, Salem, Massachusetts-based artist and curator from Cape Cod, MA, who strongly values community engagement and accessibility to the arts. From 2019-2023 Capra attended Montserrat College of Art in Beverly, MA, earning a BFA in Printmaking and Curatorial Studies. There she developed her artistic voice, focusing her work on themes of queer identity, femininity, and feminism. Capra has a long history of working in Museums and Galleries, beginning in her childhood through mentoring young artists at The Provincetown Art Association and Museum, as well as the Cape Cod Museum of Art, various recreation departments, and non-profit programs like Cape Ann Art Haven. Capra currently holds the title of Curator of the Salem Art Gallery. As a curator, Capra embraces art as activism and is dedicated to displaying politically relevant art that starts poignant conversation. |
Awards
Emma LeBlanc Perez - The Neighbors Every town has at least one house shrouded in myth and legend, especially living in a place as historic as New England. I chose this piece for best in show because of the undeniable myths and urban legends that stem from the creepiest house on the block. This piece was also beautifully and meticulously constructed, and miniature artists deserve a platform in fine art spaces. |
Craig Robertson – The Handyman's Totem Totem Poles tell stories of family crests, historical events, and/or moral lessons. Every totem pole is erected for a distinct reason and is always telling a story; a legend. The undeniable cultural significance of this piece, along with the painterly style of this painting, made me instantly fall in love with this work. |
Janet Barnet - Alice and Wonderland Quilt Alice and Wonderland is one of those legends that sticks with us from childhood; something so fantastical we could never forget the way the story makes us feel. Historically feminine artforms like quilting, tend to be labelled in the fine arts world as “craft”. A process like quilting, one that takes countless hours of detailed work, deserves to be recognized as fine art. |
Mariamne Shin – Harpyish |
David A. Gouveia – The Last Stand |
Leah Feria Ordonia – The Morrigan Watches Over The Custom House in Salem |
Nancy Barnes – The Gargoyle |
Salem Arts Association | Hours Parking: on street when available |
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