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Thursday, October 23, 2025 from 7—8:30 pmLocation: Virtual on Zoom
Ages 18+
Members $39; nonmembers $49; plus $10 for materials
Register Here: pem.org/events/the-salem-witch-trials-1692-bill-crisafi?date=2025-10-23&time=07:00
Registration closes on October 6!
Join us for a seasonal, virtual art making workshop, featuring the campy, eerie talents of illustrator and artist Bill Crisafi. The session begins with a presentation by curators Paula Richter and Dan Lipcan, who will offer an exclusive look at The Salem Witch Trials 1692 exhibition. Then, participants will engage in a creative hands-on workshop led by Crisafi.
Explore some historical folk magic symbols used for protection (some of which can be found adorning witch-trials-related objects in PEM’s collection). These symbols were brought to Massachusetts by British settlers as a countercurrent belief system to the prevailing Puritan religious beliefs associated with the Salem Witch Trials. Work with the artist to create your own unique symbol of protection rooted in historic protective folk magic practices!
Registration for this event closes on October 6. A supply kit containing all necessary materials will be mailed to each participant.
About the Collaborators:
Bill Crisafi is an artist who lives and works in Chicago. His body of work is heavily influenced by the occult, drag, fashion and the nostalgia he has for the dark history of his home state of Massachusetts. He communicates his ideas through illustration, sculpture and photography that explores themes of magic and folklore, merged together with a touch of camp and humor. His photographic work developed from his passion for costume construction, and allows him to bring to life the world he creates through illustration.
Since 2009, Paula Richter has been responsible for curatorial research and support of the museum's changing exhibition program, related publications and core activities within the curatorial department. She has participated on exhibition teams for more than a dozen recent and upcoming exhibitions and numerous gallery installations and rotations. She previously worked for the Cape Ann Historical Association, the Sargent House Museum and Landmark College. A graduate of the University of New Hampshire, Richter writes and lectures on American textiles and fashion and New England art and decorative arts.
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Event Venue & Nearby Stays
Peabody Essex Museum, 161 Essex St,Salem, Massachusetts, United States
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