Our Story

Marblehead Arts Association’s Story

Now in its 10th decade, the Marblehead Arts Association (MAA) is located in the historic King Hooper Mansion. The MAA was founded in 1922 by a small group of artists who took action to support their beliefs that a vibrant art community was integral to the well-being of Marblehead and the surrounding community. Three years later, there were 153 members and 3500 visitors at their first large exhibit at the American Legion Hall.

By 1938, the MAA was thriving and in need of a larger exhibit space. As a result, later that same year they purchased the dilapidated King Hooper Mansion.

Committed to preserving an important piece of Marblehead’s history the mansion was restored and in 1975 was admitted to the National Register of Historic Places, one of only twelve in Marblehead.

The MAA continues to grow and prosper currently serving 500+ artistically diverse artists, associate and corporate members. Six galleries of exhibits by association members and guest artists rotate approximately every six weeks displaying over 1,200 original works of art annually. Each year the MAA awards a scholarship to a Marblehead High School student pursuing an education in fine arts.

We look forward to building on the 100 year tradition of “Leading the arts in the community . . . inspiring generations.” The Marblehead Arts Association is an integral part of Marblehead and attracts visitors locally, regionally and internationally.