Massachusetts cultural tourism features two unconventional destinations: Boston’s Museum of Bad Art and Rockport’s Paper House, which transform overlooked art and old newspapers into attractions, according to museum curators and site caretakers.
Boston’s Museum of Bad Art Celebrates Flawed Creativity
The Museum of Bad Art operates inside Dorchester Brewing Company in Boston after previous homes in Dedham and Somerville. According to curator in chief Michael Frank, the institution collects works found at yard sales, thrift stores, and even in the trash on one condition: the pieces must be serious attempts at creating art where something went wrong.
“It’s art that was created in an attempt to make art, but in which something has gone wrong,” Frank stated.
Executive Director Louise Sacco noted that the facility’s mission avoids mocking creators. Instead, the staff aims to “collect, exhibit, and celebrate” the work. Frank added that most artists are excited to learn their work has been displayed. If an artist objects to the exhibition, the museum returns the item without question.
Did you know? The Museum of Bad Art returns pieces without question if the original creator objects.
Rockport’s Paper House Highlights Ingenious Insulation
About 40 miles north of Boston, another unconventional collection preserves experimentation in Rockport. Mechanical engineer Elis Denman built the Paper House using layers of newspaper as wall insulation. Denman and his family spent six summers inside the dwelling before he moved out in 1929.
Denman eventually expanded his paper-construction concept to furniture. Edna Beaudoin, Denman’s great-niece and the house’s caretaker, recalled that an early paper chair broke when the engineer sat on it. Rather than quit, the engineer simply tried again.
Today, the Paper House runs largely on the honor system. The attraction continues drawing curious visitors.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is the Museum of Bad Art located?
The Museum of Bad Art is located inside Dorchester Brewing Company in Boston, following previous locations in Dedham and Somerville.
What are the admission rules for the Museum of Bad Art?
The museum exhibits pieces found in thrift stores, yard sales, and the trash that were created as serious art attempts. If an artist objects to having their work displayed, staff members return the piece without question.
Who built the Paper House in Rockport?
Mechanical engineer Elis Denman built the Paper House using layered newspapers for wall insulation and furniture construction.
Can visitors still tour the Paper House?
Yes. The Rockport attraction operates largely on the honor system and welcomes curious visitors, with care managed by Denman’s great-niece, Edna Beaudoin.
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