Salem Arts Association Seeks New Location After Losing Derby Street Space

SALEM, MA — The Salem Arts Association is seeking a new location for its exhibitions, classes, events and community gatherings after the Board of Directors said the SAA was informed that it must move out of its Derby Street space after five years.

The SAA Board of Directors said the building's owners exercised their right to end the lease agreement as of Dec. 11.

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"While this marks a significant change, we are choosing to see it as an opportunity," the SAA Board of Directors said in a message to the community. "We’re actively exploring new spaces — both short-term (up to a year) and permanent — in collaboration with local organizations and the city of Salem.

"Above all, we are reminded that Salem Arts is about people, not a place. It's our members and community who create the magic, and our exhibitions and programs will continue."

The SAA will continue to host exhibitions for the next three months with the latest gallery, "Conjuring & Incantations," opening on Friday.

Gallery and shop hours will be extended throughout the fall.

"Thank you for your continued support as we move into this new chapter for the Salem Arts Association," the SAA Board said.

(Scott Souza is a Patch field editor covering Beverly, Danvers, Marblehead, Peabody, Salem and Swampscott. He can be reached at Scott.Souza@Patch.com. X/Twitter: @Scott_Souza.)