Brief History as of 1999

It was a young, enthusiastic, creative group who founded the Danvers Art Association, formerly known as "The studio Group" in the spring of 1965. Additional people with the same interests were invited to join. Officers for the group were appointed and the Danvers Art Association was on it's way to becoming a positive influence in the town of Danvers. They never faltered in their loyalty and vision for the betterment of the group and the community.

The first exhibit took place in the hay barn at Endicott Park. The group worked hard cleaning and decorating the barn. Posters were made and distributed around town. Within a week's time when all preparations were complete and the paintings were hung, the participating members of the exhibit were dazzled with the spectacular show they had created. Tech attendance was remarkable considering the Danvers Art Association was not too well known at that time.

The following year the Danvers Garden Club was invited to participate in tech exhibit. They provided beautiful flower arrangements that enhanced the setting and atmosphere of the exhibit. The title of that show was "Arts and Flowers." Another year the Danvers Theater Group in addition to the Garden Club, joined in with the Art Association, thus creating a festive mood for the show.

When the hay barn could no longer be used, the town allowed the group to use the Carriage House at Endicott Park for a short time. When that was no longer available to the Art Association the group was permitted to use the Putnamville School for a few years. The membership was growing and when we could no longer use the school it became more and more difficult to find a gathering place. Against all odds the group prevailed. Quite often meetings were held at the homes of members. Over the years workshops and demonstrations were being held at various places in Danvers that were available. For the past ten years all meetings, events and exhibits have taken place in the Gordon Room at the Peabody Institute Library.

Initially the Danvers Art Association was composed of amateurs and week-end painters, many of whom are now professionals, well established and accepted in the art world. There are several notables in the group who have won numerous awards and have also been profiled in art publications. Some of the members give lessons and demonstrations that are well attended.

A statement made by a member of the Danvers Art Association defines quite clearly the purpose of the group.."This organization was founded to provide a place and time wherein all interested persons of our town may gather and work together in the art medium of their choice. It was also hoped that this group would, by its artistic nature be able to contribute to the over all cultural endeavors of our community. Above all was the wish to offer to each member an opportunity to seek out, to learn of and to develop his own individual talent. There is, we believe, a very special and enduring satisfaction to be experienced when one beholds that which is the accomplishment of his own heart, mind and hands; and to this wonderful adventure The Danvers Art Association is dedicated."

The Danvers Art Association has established a scholarship fund. Every year an outstanding Danvers High School art student is awarded a sum of money assist them in continuing their art education.

The Danvers Art Association has come a long way from its humble beginnings.