A Public Art Display That Brings Creativity to Essex Street.
Have you seen the new Salem Arts Creates: Windows Into Artists’ Worlds exhibit in downtown Salem, Massachusetts? I’m thrilled to share that I’m one of the featured artists in this public art display — and that I also contributed portraits of several local artists, captured in their creative studio spaces.
Presented by the Salem Arts Association, in collaboration with the Peabody Essex Museum, this vibrant installation fills the storefront windows along Essex Street with color, imagination, and community spirit.
This project celebrates the many ways that art connects us — as artists, neighbors, and friends. For me, it was an inspiring experience to both participate and help visually tell the stories of other artists in our community. Each portrait reveals a glimpse into an artist’s world, offering passersby a window into Salem’s creative heart.
A Window Into Salem Massachusetts' Creative Community
There’s something magical about walking through downtown Salem and discovering art in unexpected places. The Salem Arts Creates: Windows Into Artists’ Worlds project brings that sense of discovery to life — transforming storefronts into glowing galleries of creativity.
The exhibition, organized by the Salem Arts Association with support from the Peabody Essex Museum, showcases the extraordinary diversity of our local arts community. From painting and pottery to fashion, glasswork, woodworking, and beyond, this collection of windows celebrates the ingenuity and spirit that make Salem, Massachusetts such a special place for artists to live and work.
I’m deeply grateful to be featured in this exhibit, alongside so many talented members of the Salem Arts Association. To see my own portrait included among these creative peers — and to have contributed portraits that highlight their artistic spaces — felt like a full-circle celebration of the community I’m proud to be part of.
Participating as an Artist — and Contributor
When I was invited to take part in the project, I knew right away that I wanted to contribute something beyond my own work. As a local Salem portrait artist, I’ve always been drawn to the human side of creativity — the expression, focus, and individuality that come through when artists are surrounded by their tools, materials, and ideas.
For this exhibit, I had the opportunity to create portraits of several fellow artists in their studios. Each visit was an inspiring exchange — a chance to step into someone else’s creative world, hear their story, and capture the atmosphere that fuels their work. These portraits, now part of the Windows Into Artists’ Worlds display, reflect that shared sense of passion and pride that runs through our entire art community.
Bringing Art to the Streets of Salem
Public art has a powerful way of connecting people. By transforming everyday windows into gallery spaces, Salem Arts Creates makes art accessible to everyone — whether you’re a long-time supporter of the arts or simply passing through downtown Salem.
This project was made possible through the generosity of the Peabody Essex Museum, which graciously offered one of its downtown storefront windows for the installation. Just steps away from the museum’s main entrance, the exhibit invites visitors to pause and experience Salem’s vibrant creative energy right in the heart of the city.
The museum’s partnership with the Salem Arts Association made this collaboration especially meaningful — a true reflection of how established institutions and local artists can come together to celebrate community. The Windows Into Artists’ Worlds display not only showcases the talents of individual artists but also highlights the shared commitment to keeping art visible, welcoming, and alive in our everyday spaces.
If you’re visiting downtown Salem, be sure to stop by 179–181 Essex Street to see the exhibit. The diversity of artistic voices on display is truly something special — a reminder that art belongs to everyone, and that collaboration keeps our creative community thriving.
Reflections on Collaboration and Community
Participating in this project reinforced something I’ve always believed: art is about connection. Whether I’m creating a commissioned painting for a client or contributing to a public installation, the heart of my work is always about seeing people — really seeing them — and helping their stories come to life visually.
Projects like Salem Arts Creates remind me how powerful that connection can be. When artists come together, share their talents, and support one another, we create something that extends far beyond the walls of any single studio. I’m proud to be part of the Salem Arts Association, and grateful for the chance to celebrate our community in such a public, joyful way.
Visit the Exhibit: 179-181 Essex Street
The Windows Into Artists’ Worlds displays are open to the public at 179–181 Essex Street, Salem, MA. If you’re in the area, I hope you’ll take a moment to visit — especially now that the Halloween crowds have dissipated and the city has settled back into its creative rhythm.
It’s a wonderful time to rediscover downtown Salem, Massachusetts, and enjoy all that our arts community has to offer. I’ll be sharing a few photos of the window displays here on the blog and on my social media channels — they truly capture the spirit of collaboration and creativity that makes Salem such a unique and inspiring place to call home.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Salem Arts Creates Windows Into Artists’ Worlds exhibit?
It’s a public art display organized by the Salem Arts Association, featuring portraits and artworks from local artists, presented in storefront windows along Essex Street in downtown Salem, Massachusetts.
Where can I see the exhibit?
The displays are located at 179–181 Essex Street, just steps from the Peabody Essex Museum in downtown Salem, Massachusetts.
Who participates in the exhibit?
Members of the Salem Arts Association, including local visual artists like myself, contributed works that celebrate our creative community.
How do I learn more about the artists in the exhibit?
You can find artist biographies on the Salem Arts Association website by clicking the button below.
What story would you like to tell?
Only 5 commissions accepted a month.
Will yours be one of them?
➡️ Contact Bobbie to learn more
Bobbie Bush is a Massachusetts-based portrait artist creating custom portrait painting commissions to honor, celebrate and commemorate loved ones. Serving nationally. Since 1996.