Enjoy this short video from our 2022 Catboat Parade of Sail

Why Catboats?

From 1904-1954, the Old Sculpin Gallery building across from the Chappy Ferry was home to the boat-building workshop of Manuel Swartz Roberts who built over 200 catboats in the historic space. Manuel’s workshop was known as a welcoming community gathering place, including for a group of artists who painted the lively scene inside the shop and along the harbor front. 

When Manuel retired he sold the building to the artists for their gallery and the Martha’s Vineyard Art Association was formed.

Each year in July the Old Sculpin Gallery hosts a special event in honor of its Catboat heritage. This year marks our 70th anniversary as a gallery and art association. The week-long celebration opens on July 20 with Catboats, Captains and Coffee followed by a glorious Parade of Sail throughout Edgartown Harbor. Enjoy the spectacular sight of catboats from near and far under full sail as they cruise by the Memorial Wharf (best viewing), the Chappy Ferry, Chappy Point and Lighthouse Beach. After the Parade, you are invited back in to the gallery for an ice cream social featuring Mad Martha’s flavor of the week “Catboat Crunch” and homemade cookies baked by our artist members.

The 70th anniversary exhibit in the gallery features work from our members and pieces from our permanent collection to represent each decade since 1954. Artifacts and archival photographs will tell the story of Manuel Swartz Roberts and his catboat building workshop.

Best of all, come celebrate with us on Sunday, July 21 at the Old Sculpin Gallery’s official 70th birthday party as we serve up live music, food, cake and camaraderie while viewing some of the best art the island has to offer.