Artists Association of Nantucket (AAN) has announced a transformational lead gift by the Cecelia Joyce and Seward Johnson Foundation, the Atlantic Foundation, and the India Blake Johnson Foundation towards the purchase and renovation of AAN’s new gallery at 8 Federal Street. In recognition of this generous support, the gallery will be named the “Cecelia Joyce & Seward Johnson Gallery.”
“This is a milestone moment for the Artists Association,” said Laurie Champion, AAN Board President. “The Johnson family’s belief in the power of art has turned vision into reality. Their support ensures that our mission will thrive for generations to come.”
AAN purchased 8 Federal Street in March of 2025 and has hosted rotating exhibitions since April. The current exhibit is 10×10, a special annual exhibit open to all artists in the community featuring artworks that measure exactly 10 inches by 10 inches.
“This property offers an opportunity to expand and remodel, so we plan to create a gallery with increased square footage, and a more sophisticated and modern space for our artists,” says Robert Frazier, Artistic Director. “The Johnson family’s lead gift will successfully launch our campaign to create the best gallery possible for our Artist Members and the Nantucket community.”
The naming of the new gallery honors the legacy of Cecelia Joyce and Seward Johnson, whose commitment to the arts has long enriched Nantucket’s cultural landscape.
“As we celebrate 80 years of AAN, this exciting new chapter reflects our continued commitment to the island and its artists,” said Tracey Sears, Executive Director. “We invite everyone to be part of this moment: to help build a permanent, inspiring home for Nantucket’s vibrant visual arts community.”
The newly named Cecelia Joyce & Seward Johnson Gallery at 8 Federal Street will serve as a cornerstone for AAN’s more than 300 Artist Members and the public for years to come.
To learn more about AAN programming and events, visit nantucketarts.org or call the Visual Arts Center at 508-228-0722.