At the edge of Gloucester Harbor stands the Salted Cod Arthouse & Wine Bar, its pressed-steel shingles gleaming in the sunlight, a beacon of artistry and community. Once a warehouse for salting cod, this historic building pulses with a novel life, thanks to the partnership with the Rocky Neck Art Colony (RNAC).
In 2021, Tom Aurelio and Matthew Moynahan, fueled by a desire to revitalize Rocky Neck, embarked on a mission to create a year-round hub for creativity. With a tiny kitchen tucked under the stairs and a vision to showcase local talent, they transformed the space into a convivial haven for art enthusiasts and casual visitors alike.
The heart of this venture lies in its collaboration with RNAC artists. Rather than curating the gallery themselves, Aurelio and Moynahan entrusted the bright space to RNAC, allowing a collection of approximately 30 local artists to shine. Each year, a jury selects works based on criteria like creativity, technical skill, and marketability, ensuring a diverse array of artistry graces the walls.
From paintings and ceramics to jewelry and textiles, the gallery features a kaleidoscope of mediums, showcasing the rich tapestry of Rocky Neck’s artistic community. And at the long brass bar, crafted by local artisan Chris Williams, patrons savor not only visual art but also artisanal beverages.
The Salted Cod takes pride in its curated selection of wines, a testament to Aurelio’s passion for Italian varietals and unique finds. Visitors can explore unfamiliar territories with the help of tasting glasses, encouraged to sample and discover new favorites. And to complement these libations, the menu has expanded to include an array of delectable offerings, from house-made flatbreads to tantalizing desserts.
As the Arthouse prepares to unveil its 2024 collection, the partnership with RNAC continues to flourish. Beginning this June, visitors to The Salted Cod will have a chance to meet an artist seven days a week, deepening their connection to the local creative scene.
With each glass poured and artwork admired, the Salted Cod remains a steadfast supporter of Rocky Neck’s artistic heritage, embodying the spirit of community and collaboration. Discover the 2024 artists at Salted Cod and join us in celebrating the vibrant talent of Rocky Neck!
#SaltedCodArtists 53 Rocky Neck, Gloucester, 978-282-0917, saltedcodarthouse.com
#RockyNeckArtColony, 6 Wonson Street, Gloucester, 978-515-7004, rockyneckartcolony.com
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The Rocky Neck Art Colony (RNAC), a 501 (c) 3 non-profit organization, nurtures excellence in the arts through exhibitions, workshops, residencies and vibrant cultural events for its members and the public. On picturesque Rocky Neck in Gloucester, Massachusetts, RNAC operates three exhibition spaces, open to the public for free, The Cultural Center at Rocky Neck (6 Wonson Street); The Salted Cod Arthouse (53 Rocky Neck Ave.), a partnership gallery and café; and Cove Gallery (37 Rocky Neck Ave.), open seasonally in the former gallery of local artists Gordon and Judith Goetemann. Check the website, www.rockyneckartcolony.org, for hours, openings and special events. For more information, see the website or call 978-515-7004
Good Morning Gloucester 