Interviewee:
James Bostick (He/Him)
In your own words, tell us about your business, organization, or initiative.
Gallows Hill Artists offers Salem’s only dedicated artist workspace, housed in a historic building at 16 Proctor Street. Originally a tannery, the site now provides a vibrant, collaborative environment for creative professionals. With 26 studios totaling 12,000 square feet, our 28 artists enjoy spacious studios ranging in size, either private or semi-open, plus access to shared amenities including a kitchen, darkroom, exhibition areas, and common workspace. Studios feature original post-and-beam construction, ten-foot ceilings, and large windows, filling rooms with inspiring light.
Our community is diverse—painters, sculptors, photographers, printmakers, glass artists, fashion designers, writers, and more—all united by a passion for creative growth and collaboration. Monthly gatherings, workshops, and open studios foster connection and innovation among resident artists and the public.
Gallows Hill Artists is more than just a workspace; it’s a supportive, dynamic hub for sharing ideas, building connections, and celebrating artistic exploration. Many artists have launched new projects and collaborations here, inspired by the enthusiastic community and unique environment. Open Studio events welcome art lovers to experience firsthand the creative energy that defines Gallows Hill. Join us and discover a place where creativity thrives.
Tell us a bit about you and why you do what you do. Share your passions for your business, organization, or initiative.
I founded Gallows Hill Artists almost by chance. As a photographer, I began subletting a studio space in this charming old building in 2017. When they decided to leave in early 2020, I faced the challenge of losing my creative workspace. To preserve it, I made the leap to lease the entire 6,000-square-foot floor.
Building a community has always been close to my heart. My experience as president of Salem Arts Association made me acutely aware of how much local artists needed creative workspace in Salem. After renovating the space, I opened a handful of studios to fellow artists—these first studios filled quickly. In the spring of 2023, I completed more renovations and added additional studios, welcoming 12 artists into our growing community.
In late 2024, I learned that the floor above our studios would soon become available, which prompted me to plan for further expansion. I immediately set to work, and by May 2025, the new studios were ready—most were claimed by local artists before the walls were even finished! Today, Gallows Hill Artists is home to 26 studios and 12,000 square feet of creative space.
The Impact has been deeply rewarding. Many local artists have shared that having affordable, collaborative studio space has empowered them to pursue their creative passions full-time, participate in exhibitions, and connect with like-minded peers. Some have launched new projects and collaborations here that simply wouldn’t have been possible working alone.
I love creating here on Gallows Hill, surrounded by an amazingly talented group of artists who inspire me every day. Together, we are building a vibrant creative hub that will continue to grow and enrich Salem’s artistic community for years to come.
What is the last thing you read, watched, or listened to that had an impact on you?
A book that has continually guided and inspired me is “The Art Studio Loft Manual for Ambitious Artists and Creators,” written by Eric Rudd of North Adams, Massachusetts, in 2001—a thoughtful gift from a friend a few years ago. I find renewed motivation and practical guidance whenever I pick it up as a reference; Rudd’s advice on building creative communities and overcoming self-doubt has profoundly shaped my vision for Gallows Hill Artists. His insights on fostering collaboration, navigating the practicalities of artist-run spaces, and sustaining an inclusive environment resonate deeply with me. These lessons are woven into the fabric of our artist community, and without the steady encouragement found in his words, I might never have had the courage to take on this project.
What’s the one thing people would be surprised to learn about you or your business?
Gallows Hill Artists is also the only facility on the North Shore that is 100% focused on working artists. While there are other studio spaces in other nearby towns, none of them are dedicated to fostering a community exclusively for working artists where members actively collaborate, share resources, and participate in professional development. This unique environment encourages artists not only to create, but also to support one another and grow together, making Gallows Hill Artists a true hub for creativity.
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
