The InstigatorSalem on the Edge celebrated its 1st Anniversary July 22
In July 2020, Salem on the Edge brought art to the heart of downtown. But that’s not where gallery owner Melanie Weston’s Salem story starts.
In mid-2019, Melanie found herself looking to start something new — a retail shop perhaps, she thought, but that idea morphed.
“Maybe a men’s shop with art on the walls, then it hit me. What about a gallery? That’s my background,” she said. “Art is what I know.”
Melanie, who previously called Seattle home, moved to Salem about 14 years ago and worked for the Hallie Ford Museum of Art for 13.
“Art has always been a part of my life,” said Melanie. “It has helped me get through challenging times and also express joy and happiness. I started this gallery for personal reasons but as it turns out, it was much needed in the community and for the artists and that has been a humbling realization.”
She opened Salem on the Edge with a strong vision in mind. She wants to enrich people’s lives through art.
“We want to bring artwork into your everyday life to make your home or office a reflection of who you are,” said Melanie. “Art makes lives better; It’s our motto.”
The contemporary gallery aims to provide a rotating selection of art at varying price points and sizes approachable to a range of buyers. It features work by a variety of northwest artists, with a focus on representing Salem.
“When Melanie contacted me and asked if I would be interested in showing my art in the gallery she was opening, I hyperventilated and didn’t hesitate to say yes. Art galleries play a huge role in creating a vibrant community and Salem had been without a gallery for so long,” said artist Dayna J. Collins. “…Salem on the Edge provides a beautiful venue to showcase the art of local artists. Given how many talented artists there are in Salem, I feel humbled to be one of the artists invited to show my work.”
In addition to representing area artists, Melanie’s vision also includes art openings, receptions, music, wine, beer and cider tastings.
“I want this to be a gathering place,” she said.
Plus, she encourages people to come talk about art. There are no silly questions, said Melanie. “How do you know unless you ask? Never stop learning, myself included.”
Salem on the Edge is located at 156 Liberty St. NE in downtown. It’s open from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Wednesday to Saturday; and 12 to 5 p.m. Sunday. Info: 503-884-0635; salemontheedge.com
Salem on the Edge will celebrate its one-year anniversary on Saturday, July 24. Pop in to view the current exhibit (featuring work by 11 guest artists (Jon Colburn, Matt Eichstaedt, Katie Jean Gilmour, Samuel Hoskins, Benjamin Mah, Michael Martin, Ruth Orschel, Karina Riebel, Monte Shelton and Emily Sweet) alongside primary artists: Seth Allen, David George Andersen, Joshua Blue, Stephanie Brockway, Elizabeth Bauman, Dayna Collins, Bonnie Hull, Aron Michael Johnston, Katia Kyte, Rebecca Mannheimer, Susan Napack, Sarah Sedwick, Nora Sherwood, Christopher St. John, Melanie Weston, Matthew Shoki Tanabe. ) and grab a Streetsweets cupcake while you are there. They will also have Mystic Wine from 4 to 6 p.m. plus live music by Matthew Shoki Tanabe, Toby Tanabe and Doug Hoffman from 6 to 7 p.m.
Carlee Wright
