Cape Ann’s Elizabeth Carey, who has nearly 40 years working in tourism and destination marketing, has been appointed the first CEO of the Rocky Neck Art Colony, a historic neighborhood in Gloucester.
As executive director of Discover Gloucester from 2016 to 2022, she spearheaded several new initiatives to promote Gloucester to both domestic and international tourists.
“I’m absolutely thrilled to be the new CEO of Rocky Neck Art Colony,” Carey said. “It’s like stepping into a dream — surrounded by the beauty of Gloucester’s harbor and the vibrant energy of this artistic community.
“The passion for creativity and the commitment to honoring Gloucester’s cultural legacy are truly inspiring. I can’t wait to work alongside everyone here to keep fostering that spirit of inclusivity, creativity and connection.”
The art colony is now headquartered at the Cultural Center of Rocky Neck, a renovated 150-year-old former chapel at 6 Wonson St. The organization has more than 300 members, both artists and those who want to support the arts.
“Elizabeth’s strategic plans and collaborative approach resulted in increased tourism, heightened visitor spending, and expanded market share for Gloucester,” the colony’s executive committee said in a prepared statement. “Elizabeth brings with her a wealth of experience and a proven track record of success in the fields of marketing, tourism, and destination management.”
During her tenure at Discover Gloucester, some of the new initiatives included “Re-Discover Gloucester, be a tourist in your own backyard “ during the COVID-19 pandemic, and Culture Splash, a summertime collaborative effort that promotes Gloucester’s two cultural districts, offering residents and visitors new ways to experience these areas.
As CEO, Carey will leverage her strategic vision, organizational management experience, and passion for the arts to enhance the Rocky Neck Art Colony’s mission of supporting and promoting the arts, the executive committee said.
She replaces Tony Blackman, who served as executive director before the position changed to CEO.
As the art colony evolved, it has expanded. It now operates galleries in the Cultural Center at Rocky Neck, Cove Gallery at 37 Rocky Neck Ave. and partners with the Salted Cod Arthouse at 53 Rocky Neck Ave. Additionally, member galleries may be found along the streets of Rocky Neck, from East Main Street to Madfish Wharf.
“Those of us who have worked with Elizabeth over the past months have been impressed by her can-do attitude, energy, Gloucester connections and positivity. She is up for the challenge of this new role at Rocky Neck, and we are eager for her leadership,” said Janice Brand, president of the Rocky Neck Art Colony Board of Trustees.
Prior to her work in Gloucester, Carey held various leadership positions, including vice president of sales and marketing at Attract China LLC, sales and marketing manager at Boston Tea Party Ships & Museum, and regional vice president for the WHERE Hawaii Market at Morris Visitor Publications.
The Rocky Neck Art Colony, among the oldest continuously operating art colonies in the United States, supports the arts through exhibitions, events and community outreach programs.
Gail McCarthy may be contacted at 978-675-2706, or gmccarthy@northofboston.com.