Salisbury University opened its new Museum of Eastern Shore Culture, at 218 W. Main St., in November. The museum features decoys by the Ward Brothers and other esteemed carvers from the SU Permanent Collection. However, this museum is about more than carvings. Opening exhibits include contemporary works by local and SU student and faculty artists, regional Native American artifacts and more.
“While the collection is an important part of this museum, the story we plan to tell expands to include and embrace all regional and community traditions,” said Raye-Valion Gillette, the museum’s curator and folklife specialist. “This will be a place where residents and visitors alike can learn more about the heritage and culture of the Eastern Shore through art and companion programming.”
Portions of the collection on display include decoys made by Crisfield, MD, natives Lem and Steve Ward, whose decorative works are credited with elevating the practice of decoy carving to an artform. (Lem, in particular, was recognized by President Ronald Reagan and named a National Endowment for the Arts Heritage Fellow.)
Contemporary artists also are showcased at the museum, with inaugural exhibits highlighting works by Maryland artist, historian and writer Yolanda Acree, whose collages explore themes of Black cultural identity and world-making; Eastern Shore landscape artist and SU alumnus Kenneth Brown; Susan Holt, artist and retired instructor of fine arts and director of the Mosley Gallery at the University of Maryland Eastern Shore; and Worcester County mixed-media abstract artist Deb Rolig.
Additional opening exhibits include student and faculty artwork from SU’s hot glass program, artifacts and interpretive panels representing the Pocomoke Indian Nation, and a sampling of quilts from the collection of SU’s Nabb Research Center for Delmarva History and Culture.
The museum has received support from multiple statewide cultural organizations, including Maryland Humanities and the Maryland Heritage Area Authority, the latter of which awarded a $35,800 grant to provide interpretation and accessibility features.
For museum information visit it online: museumofeasternshorecultureatsu.org