SALEM, N.J. — In this week’s episode of Follow South Jersey, we are thrilled to speak with Melissa Skinner, the Director of the Salem Building Arts Center in Salem. This unique community hub occupies the historic building that once housed New Jersey’s first J.C. Penney store. During our conversation, Melissa shares insights into her upbringing in Salem and what inspired her to lead such a creative initiative. With her background in fashion, deep connection to the community, and passion for effecting positive change, Melissa’s dedication to innovation and creating new opportunities for the future is truly inspiring.
The Salem Building Arts Center is home to a variety of programs, including local Mural Arts collaborations with local artist Terrell Seals and hands-on carpentry classes for middle school students. These initiatives offer participants the chance to explore their creativity while developing practical skills. What sets the Salem Building Arts Center apart is its ability to blend modern innovation with historical preservation. The building retains much of its historical integrity, including window seats crafted from wood salvaged from the iconic Salem Oak, New Jersey’s oldest living tree, which sadly fell in 2020. The preserved J.C. Penney Company tile work in the entranceway serves as a reminder of the building’s rich history, creating a unique space that functions both as a modern creative center and a living time capsule.
Where the building once focused on improving its customers’ outward appearance, its new mission is to nurture life skills, foster creative expression, and enhance the lives of everyone who steps through its doors. We highly encourage a visit to the Salem Building Arts Center to explore their diverse programs, initiatives, and innovative offerings—providing valuable opportunities for personal growth and meaningful community engagement.
Watch Episode 9 of the Follow Salem Podcast below or listen on Spotify by clicking here.
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Follow South Jersey provides local journalism which highlights our diverse communities; fosters transparency through robust, localized, and vital reporting that holds leaders and institutions accountable; addresses critical information needs; supports people in navigating civic life; and equips people with the information necessary to partake in effective community engagement. If there is a story or event you think we should cover, please send your tips to news@followsouthjersey.com with “NEWS” in the subject line.
