RAA&M

About

The Rockport Art Association & Museum is one of the oldest and most active art organizations in the country. The Associ- ation has a long and distinguished history that has spanned 90 years. Each year the RAA&M welcomes thousands of visitors from all over the world. In 1921, a small group of artists attracted by the beauty and hospitality of Rockport, founded the Rockport Art Association in the studio of the late Aldro T. Hibbard, NA. The RAA&M was established as an artist cooperative and social gathering place for artists and art lovers. On July 12, 1929 the Rockport Art Association & Museum found its permanent home at The Old Tavern building, 12 Main Street. Built in 1787, the building was originally a sea captain’s house and over the years it has also been an inn, a tavern and a stage coach stop. The Maddocks barn gallery also dates back to the mid-1700s and its history is reflected in the old wooden beams and sliding barn door. The RAA&M continues to be one of Cape Ann’s most prominent cultural beacons. Since its founding, the Associa- tion has steadily increased in size and currently includes approximately 300 artist & photography members (selected through a jury process), and 400 contributing members. By promoting year-round programs of classes, lectures, demonstrations, exhibitions and community outreach, as well as an impressive museum collection, the RAA&M remains dedicated to its mission of making fine art appre- ciation accessible to all.