Zullo Seeks to Secure its Future by Exploring Main St. Building Purchase

Please note: Future fundraising updates will be available at fundraising.zullogallery.org

In 1988, when a group of arts supporters sought to establish the non-profit Zullo Gallery Center for the Arts in the historic building at 456 Main St. in Medfield, it benefited from landlords who believed in the gallery mission to advance and support the arts, and who have supported it themselves with extremely reasonable lease agreements.

Now, more than 35 years later, the local residents who currently own the property are contemplating selling it, and have offered the Zullo Gallery the chance to purchase the building from them after a decade of ownership. (The building in which the Zullo Gallery is located is under separate ownership from Brothers Marketplace.)

For nearly four decades, the Zullo Gallery has realized its mission in countless ways – whether through a variety of exhibits, art classes, live music, or as gathering space for the community.

Since the gallery’s inception, we’ve wanted the Zullo to have a true permanent home in its current Main Street location. Ownership of the site provides the security needed to invest in the building, build a long-term vision for the gallery, qualify for significant arts and cultural grants, and possibly receive tax benefits.

After a financial analysis of revenue, expenses and bank loan, the Zullo Gallery has determined it would need to raise $600,000 by March 1 to allow it to move forward with purchase negotiations.

Zullo Gallery trustees and advisory board members are in support of the Zullo exploring the building purchase, but with the realization that a significant amount of funding will be needed in a short amount of time.

We are hoping that between existing Zullo supporters, local community members, and possible ‘Angel Investors,’ we can raise the money needed to keep the gallery in its current location. Doing so would not only allow the Zullo Gallery to continue in downtown Medfield, but hopefully provide some peace of mind to our small business-owner friends below.

Anyone who is interested in supporting Zullo Gallery efforts to purchase the building, either with a financial contribution, pledge or fundraising support, can contact me via e-mail or phone at 508-843-2375. Donations to the Zullo to support overall programming and sustainability can always be made at zullogallery.org/support.

Sincerely,

Bill Pope

Executive Director

P.S. We are also hosting an information session at 7 p.m. on Thursday, Feb. 20 at the Zullo Gallery. Please stop in if you are interested in learning more.