The New Peabody Essex Museum

As a lifelong resident of the North Shore of Massachusetts, school field trips and vacations were often spent at Salem’s Peabody Essex Museum. It is a world class institution that has housed some amazing special exhibits such as this past year’s Empresses of China’s Forbidden City and the 2009 exhibit, Rare Bird of Fashion: The Irreverent Iris Apfel.

I’ll often visit the museum on the weekend or when I have a free day because I love their extensive maritime and fashion collections. And their collection is about to get much bigger with the opening of the new wing at the PEM.

The new space is made up of 40,000 square feet and features three floors of gallery space. This includes a gallery dedicated to Carl and Iris Apfel to house several of her most amazing outfits that she had donated to the museum after Rare Bird of Fashion wrapped up in 2010. There is also a gorgeous atrium that is a photographer’s dream and a garden where museum goers can sit and relax.

I was lucky enough to score an invite to the PEM Continuum Gala & Art Party: A New Wing Celebration. Not only did I get a sneak peak of the new galleries, I also became a piece of walking art with an airbrush tattoo designed by artist Vanessa Platacis whose work is featured prominently in the new wing.

• 

• 

As we wandered from gallery to gallery, sipping champagne and nibbling on doughtnuts and delicious hors d’oeuvres, we were able to enjoy live music and meet local artists.

• 

• 

• 

My favorite piece in the new wing, besides the fashion, could be found at the entrance. I don’t know why I didn’t check the description, but it looked like a white carved peacock sitting atop a waterfall of red and pink flowers that mimicked feathers. It felt very romantic and dreamy to me. It also went with my outfit!

The #newPEM is now open to the public. It’s a great place to spend an afternoon or even the whole day. I’d suggest following it up with a drink and some bites at Gulu Gulu Cafe or check out The Counter at The Hotel Salem.

6