Podcasts

In Episode 44 of the Inside the Frame Podcast, Frame Center welcomed mixed-media artist, educator, and community arts leader Karen Cass for an inspiring conversation about art, advocacy, and the thriving local scene surrounding Hanover, Massachusetts. As a longtime member of the Hanover Cultural Council and the creative force behind the Hanover Day Art Show, Karen’s passion for inclusive artistic expression shines throughout the episode.

A Champion of Community Art

Karen wears many hats, but at the heart of it all is her commitment to creating space for the arts in her community. As part of the Hanover Cultural Council for nearly two decades, she has helped direct funding from the Massachusetts Cultural Council toward a wide range of arts and humanities projects. Through Hanover Day, an annual celebration blending art, music, and carnival festivities, Karen and her team raise crucial funds to expand local arts programming.

“We get about 40 applications for grants each year,” Karen explained. “This year alone, we awarded over $27,000 to projects across the South Shore. Many are tied directly to Hanover’s students and community spaces.”

An Inclusive Art Show That Makes a Difference

At the center of Karen’s current efforts is the Hanover Day Art Show, hosted annually at Frame Center. With 87 pieces submitted this year, ranging from kindergarten creations to professional gallery work, the show exemplifies inclusivity and accessibility.

“It’s a one-piece-per-artist show, so there’s a lot of variety,” said Karen. “It’s exciting to see how different and dynamic the work is. There’s something for everyone.”

Unlike traditional juried shows, the Hanover Day Art Show ensures every submission is accepted. Prizes are awarded by a guest juror. This year, Christina Godfrey from Savage Godfrey, the spirit of the show, remains focused on encouragement, visibility, and community engagement.

“There’s no fear of rejection. Everyone has a chance to participate, to be seen, and to grow as artists,” Karen emphasized. “We even have participants as young as kindergarten. Luke might be the youngest star of the night!”

Art Rooted in History and Personal Story

Beyond organizing community events, Karen is a practicing artist with a distinctive voice. Her work often incorporates mixed media, collage, and personal narratives. She spoke about a series titled Common Threads, created for a union hall in Boston’s Chinatown, that honors her grandmother’s work as a garment stitcher.

“I used fabric, maps, and historical references to connect my personal history with the history of that building and the labor movement,” she said. “It was meaningful to contribute to a space with such deep roots.”

Karen’s pieces can also be found in exhibitions across New England, including current shows at the Ellison Center for the Arts in Duxbury and upcoming displays in New York City and Boston.

A Night to Celebrate

As anticipation builds for the Hanover Day opening reception, Karen reflected on what makes the event so special: “It’s more than just an art show. It’s a celebration of people coming together—artists, families, friends, neighbors. The energy is incredible.”

With awards like Best in Show, Hanover Excellence, and a crowd-voted People’s Choice, the evening promises both recognition and revelry. Local bakery Sugar Hill is even donating sweet treats to top off the celebration.

“We hope everyone comes out,” Karen said with a smile. “There’s so much great work to see, and it’s a night for our whole community to connect through art.”

Frame Center is more than just a custom frame shop. It’s a creative hub committed to connecting people with art. From expert framing services to hosting vibrant community exhibitions like the Hanover Day Art Show, Frame Center proudly supports artists and art lovers across the South Shore. Visit us to explore, frame, and celebrate the art that surrounds you.