Interviewee:
Monica Manoski (she/her)
In your own words, tell us about your business, organization, or initiative.
Essex Art Center is a community-based arts organization in Lawrence, MA. We offer contemporary art exhibitions, studio-based learning experiences, and community outreach events.
Tell us a bit about you and why you do what you do. Share your passions for your business, organization, or initiative.
We believe everyone is an artist and help individuals connect with their creativity. Whether you’re 4 or 84, a novice or a professional, everyone is respected at Essex Art Center. Our galleries, studios, and community outreach programs are built on the belief that everyone—whether you’re the instructor, staff member, or student—has something meaningful to contribute and ideas that can inspire.
What’s the one thing people would be surprised to learn about you or your business?
Our signature summer event, ¡Fiesta en la calle! is on Saturday, July 12, 2025, from 11:00 AM-4:00 PM. Now in its 5th year, this free event transforms Island Street in Lawrence into a hub of creativity and fun, offering a diverse range of free art activities, live music, and games for all to enjoy.
This year’s event will transport attendees into a magical world built on the theme of wonder, community, and connections. We invite everyone to immerse themselves in art activities that explore the possibilities of worldbuilding while being introduced to the new creatures that watch over the Art Center’s studios, including the Narwhal, Pegasus, Dragon, and more.
Come, make your own dragon eye sculpture, and create your own pair of Pegasus wings. Essex Art Center’s staff, board, and volunteers are working to create a truly magical experience that sparks imagination and wonder. Don’t miss the magic!
We invite everyone to delve into an idealized universe where magic and love pervade everyday life and to *Explore the Magic Inside You.*
What is Creative Collective?
Creative Collective is a group of economic development strategists, small business supporters, activation specialists, and believers in the importance of the creative workforce. We foster growth, sustainability, and scalability for small businesses, creative thinkers, organizations, entrepreneurs, and innovators. Learn more and join Creative Collective at www.creativecollectivema.com/join
