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 a full century. 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 i
n the studio of the late Aldro T. 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 dates back to the mid-1800s 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.
