The Most-Painted Building In The Country Is Right Here In Massachusetts
By Kim Falchek|Published June 27, 2023
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Kim Falchek
Author
Kim Falchek has been exploring the towns, trails, and hidden gems of Massachusetts since her college days in Boston. When not writing, Kim enjoys photography, going on road trips, and spending time at the beach. Kim has previously been a contributing writer for LA Family Travel, Global Munchkins, and Latched Mama. She currently lives in Salem, Massachusetts where she and her family embrace all things Halloween!
You probably already know that the state of Massachusetts is filled with interesting buildings of various architectural styles, both new and old. However, you may be surprised to find out that the most-painted building in the United States can be found right here in our small state. A little red fishing shack, named Motif #1 has been the subject of countless paintings by various artists. You can’t take a trip to Rockport, Massachusetts without snapping a picture of this iconic New England building.
Motif #1 is a replica of an 1840s fishing shack. It is located in Rockport's Bradley Harbor.
Known in the art world as the most painted building in the country, it has been the subject of work by Harry Aiken Vincent and Aldro Hibbard. Painter Lester Hornby, who once taught local artists, is thought to have named the building "Motif #1."
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Over the years the building served as a fishing shack, artist studio, and monument to local Armed Forces veterans.
The original shack was destroyed by the infamous New England Blizzard of 1978, but the rebuilt structure is pretty much an exact replica of the original Motif #1.
You may even spot an image of Motif #1 in your favorite Pixar film. The Finding Nemo film director, Andrew Stanton, is originally from Rockport. (Hint: Check out the dentist's office scenes).
Have you visited Motif #1 in the town of Rockport? What did you think? Other iconic buildings in Massachusetts that are worth a visit include the Fisherman’s Memorial statue in Gloucester and the Scituate Lighthouse on Cape Cod.
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