punto urban art museum

Location: Salem, MA

Budget: Undisclosed

Status: Complete

Type: New Construction

PUAM is a mission-driven social justice public art program that invests in art to break down the socio-economic barriers between El Punto neighborhood and the rest of Salem. The museum features 75+ large scale outdoor murals by local as well as international artists. The program has been featured and recognized by internationally acclaimed media and organizations such as PBS, Urban Land Institute, Fast Company and Others.

  • >El Punto Neighborhood was a segregated/stigmatized community within Salem
    >Local Businesses were unable to benefit from the thriving Salem tourist economy
    >Lack of Investment had led to lack of "Pride of Place"

  • Through small placemaking projects, NSCDC generated momentum to build trust among people in- and outside of the neighborhood and to demonstrate that art can be a vehicle to bring people together. Our team visited places around the world and learned about public art programs, business/ organizational models, and strengths and weaknesses.

  • An initiative working at the crossroads of art, community, and affordable housing development. PUAM’s programmatic goals are to:
    -Foster Neighborhood Pride
    -Increase Economic Opportunity for Local Businesses
    -Raise Consciousness about Social Justice Issues

  • You can reach us anytime via our contact page or email. We aim to respond quickly—usually within one business day.