SWAMPSCOTT— The Senior Center’s front corridor is serving as an art gallery through April 11 for the Swampscott Art Association’s Spring 2024 Members Exhibit. Creations of 22 local artists from the surrounding communities of Swampscott, Lynn, Nahant, Marblehead, and more are on display.

Nearing 80 years in existence, the Art Association seeks exhibition opportunities for the works of its 70 current members as well as other artists. Co-Vice President Judy Dunn, whose photography is part of the exhibit, said that the Association tries to have at least two events per year.

At a formal reception in March, the artists and other attendees casted votes for their favorite piece.

“It’s kind of a fun thing because sometimes people just walk by and don’t pay attention,” Dunn said. “But if you say ‘vote for your favorite,’ they actually go, pay attention, think about it, and vote.”

Member Marc Maccini became the purple ribbon recipient for his photo of a woodland trail in Nahant. Maccini recalled the surprise he felt when he won, and was grateful for the admiration his peers had for his piece.

“I was completely shocked when I won,” Maccini said. “It’s a great group of people, very talented painters and photographers… and nice to boot. So I felt very honored to win.”

Photography is not Maccini’s only artform, as he is also a singer, songwriter, and pianist. The Nahant resident put his piano skills on display at the exhibit’s reception when he provided musical entertainment. Maccini feels his passions are as strong as they have ever been. He feels obligated to create art in a culture that he feels needs more of it.

“I think art is incredibly important, especially now,” Maccini said. “We live in such a divisive political landscape and we need art and humor. These are the humanities that bring us all together rather than separate us.”