PHOTO BY PAULA MULLER
The Cultura Latina Dance Academy of Lynn performs at the Meet Me at The Museum event Wednesday in Central Square.
BY MICHELE DURGIN
LYNN — The recently merged Lynn Museum & Historical Society and LynnArts celebrated two decades of arts and a decade since the museum relocated downtown.
Together, they hosted a reception on Wednesday to celebrate their success.
Many positive changes have occurred, creating a united cultural campus in the heart of the downtown, according to Drew Russo, executive director of Lynn Museum/LynnArts. He said the organizations have maintained their commitment to preserving Lynn’s rich history, as well as celebrating its emergence in the art world.
“We are hoping that this event is another positive step forward in our journey to make the museum and LynnArts one united campus of cultural activity for everyone to enjoy,” Russo said.
Joseph Scanlon, president of the board of trustees, greeted guests as they arrived at the affair held on Washington Street.
Guests participated in the celebration and many said they were impressed with the museum, its collection and the stories celebrating Lynn’s rich history.
The Lynn School of Rock and the Cultura Latina Dance Academy of Lynn performed.
Joy Campbell from North Shore Community College said she was excited to be at the event.
“I was born in Lynn and I’m proud of that,” she said. “I am so happy that this museum exists because it helps us love our city even more.”
Retired educator Ray Bastarache attended with his wife, Mackie. They praised Russo for the museum’s success.
“Drew’s done an unbelievable job here and there is so much to see and learn,” he said. “I hope people make a point to visit. It is truly worth it.”
Sarah Jackson, co-chair the Lynn Cultural Council, said she was thrilled with the turnout.
“We are so pleased that these two cornerstones of Lynn art and culture have come together in such a meaningful way,” she said. “And we’re thrilled to be a part of it.”
Steven M. Walsh, first vice president of Lynn Museum/LynnArts and former executive director who served as a state representative for West Lynn, agreed.
“Each time I come here I am filled with a renewed sense of pride for my home city,” he said. “I feel a great sense of optimism about what the future holds for her.”
Michelle Kane, second vice president, said she was impressed with the turnout.
“I am thrilled to be a part of this,” she said. “The museum is looking the best it has ever looked and I’m glad people are visiting. I recently volunteered to conduct two school tours and I had so much fun.”
Attorney Charles Gallo said he too enjoyed the evening’s festivities.
“This museum is wonderful,” he said. “I would encourage all of the schools to make field trips here. There is so much to learn and so many things to see. It’s well worth the trip.The staff is great and Drew Russo is doing a remarkable job.”
Former Lynn Community Development Executive Director Jansi Chandler, whom Russo credited with having the vision to create the arts and cultural district, said she was happy to add her words of congratulations.
“I am pleased to be a part of this and am especially proud to see how it’s grown under the leadership of others,” she said.