UPDATE: The Fitchburg Art Museum (FAM) has officially reopened its doors, inviting visitors to explore captivating new exhibitions as part of its centennial celebrations. The reopening event took place yesterday, and excitement is building around the featured exhibitions now on display.
The highlight of the reopening is “Tara Sellios: Ask Now the Beasts,” which will be available until May 24, 2025. This stunning collection showcases the work of Boston-based artist Tara Sellios, who uses a large format 8 X 10 camera to create breathtaking photographs that delve into the beauty of the grotesque. Her intricate still life vignettes incorporate organic materials such as animal bones, insect specimens, and dried flowers, presenting viewers with vivid details that provoke thought and engagement.
Sellios’s series draws its title from the Book of Job, exploring profound themes of harvest and apocalypse while intertwining symbols of death and life. The imagery is inspired by historical traditions of still life painting, particularly Dutch vanitas works, ensuring a rich narrative woven throughout her art.
In addition to Sellios’s work, the museum features “FESTIVAL: A Celebration of African Art,” which is the first in a series of exhibitions marking FAM’s centennial. This exhibit spans time and space, showcasing highlights from FAM’s extensive African Art collection. The artwork addresses universal themes such as life, death, power, and celebration through the lens of masquerades, ceremonial life, ritual life, and domestic life.
The FESTIVAL exhibit is designed to provide a comprehensive view of African cultures and contexts, with pieces ranging from first millennium CE terra cottas to contemporary sculptures. It promises to engage visitors with the cultural richness of the African continent, making it a must-see during the centennial celebrations.
Join the festivities today from 5:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. as FAM kicks off its centennial celebrations. The event will feature a 100th Anniversary Toast and a special appearance by FAM founder Eleanor Norcross, portrayed by actress Sally Cragin. Guests will also receive a sneak peek of the upcoming Centennial Exhibition. Enjoy drinks and appetizers provided by Finicky Fork while mingling with fellow art enthusiasts.
This event is free and open to the public, although registration is encouraged to facilitate planning. For more details, visit fitchburgartmuseum.org.
As the holiday season approaches, don’t miss the opportunity to support local artists! The Arts League of Lowell will feature a holiday members show titled “Joy”, with artworks priced under $150. The artists’ reception is scheduled for December 13, 2025, from 3 p.m. to 5 p.m. at 307 Market St., Lowell.
Additionally, the Whistler House Museum of Art will hold its annual holiday party and art auction starting at 6 p.m. tomorrow, December 5. Attendees can expect drinks, dinner, entertainment, and both silent and live auctions. Tickets are available at the door for this beloved holiday tradition.
Western Avenue Studios will also host its Holiday Open Studios on December 6 and 13, from noon to 5 p.m., providing attendees the chance to explore local art and engage with the community.
Don’t miss out on the vibrant art scene in Fitchburg and Lowell this December! Stay tuned for more updates and events happening in your area.
