Mudflat Unveils New Studio

81 Broadway, Somerville - map

The building that once housed the Broadway Theatre in East Somerville has seen quiet use as a warehouse since the theatre closed its doors in 1982. Now, after extensive renovations, the old theatre has become the new home to Mudflat Studio, a non-profit organization that offers studio space to artists and pottery classes to the community.

Mudflat, which has been in existence for 40 years now, had outgrown its old space at 149 Broadway. In 2002, it was selected by the City of Somerville, the then-owner of the old Broadway Theatre, to develop the building into a space for city artists. In 2005, Mudflat purchased the Boradway Theatre property from the city, and began the process of renovating it into their new studio.

Cutting the ceremonial ribbon.

The renovations, which were partially funded by a $300,000 grant from the Massachusetts Cultural Facilities Fund, have turned the theatre into a modern, spacious environment that is filled with natural light. High-capacity gas-powered kilns provide Mudflat with a greater ability to fire artists' clay, and new classroom, studio, and display space greatly enhance Mudflat's ability to teach and support artists.

Gas-fired kilns.

The new Mudflat Studio is spacious and well-lit..

On Saturday, September 10th, I joined Somerville Ward #1 Alderman Bill Roche and Alderman at-large Jack Connolly, Charles Coe from the Massachusetts Cultural Council, and Mudflat's Executive Director Lynn Gervens in the ceremonial ribbon cutting for the Grand Opening of the new Mudflat Studio. Mudflat's new space is truly welcoming and unique, and I strongly encourage anyone in the neighborhood or beyond to go and check it out. Mudflat offers a wide range of community programming for both adults and children, so if you have even the slightest interest in learning more about pottery, East Somerville is the place to be.

The Second Line Social Aid and Pleasure Society Brass Band provided music.