Exhibition \\ Art & Nature Center

The Pod

Ongoing

Click below to embark on a 360° tour of The Pod. Just click on the rings to move throughout the space and use your mouse or keyboard to zoom in/out and to look all around.


Come experience our living world anew in the Pod! Grow your awareness of nature, try on new ways of being, and tap into your own creativity. Discover a life-size wire tree by sculptor Elizabeth Keithline modeled on a live tree from PEM’s campus. Watch dancer Laura Kathrein move as different animals and embody local habitats. And create your own imaginary creature inspired by real animals and fantastical beasts from around the globe. What creative sense will be sparked in you on your visit to the Pod?

What comes to mind when you think of a pod? A pea pod, an iPod or maybe a futuristic orb? Janey Winchell, curator of the Pod, describes her idea of a pod and what you’ll encounter when you visit our new multisensory exhibition space. There is something for everyone here, ranging from fabulous, nature-inspired contemporary and historic artworks to stations where you can explore nature up close or make your own art. Families with young children will discover the Wonder Zone which includes activity bins, a light table, and picture books just for them.

About \\ The Pod

Shadow Tree

About \\ The Pod

iEmbody Project

About \\ The Pod

The Birdcase

The Pod is part of PEM's Dotty Brown Art & Nature Center which investigates our place in nature through contemporary art, memorable objects, and interactive experiences. Designed for visitors of all ages, the family-friendly center features installations, changing exhibitions, hands-on displays, and art-making spaces.

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A young child and his mother playing with mechanical  animals in the Pod
Visitors at the Imagine an Animal island. © 2019 Peabody Essex Museum. Photography by Mel Taing
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Guests in the the Pod's Wonder Zone. © 2019 Peabody Essex Museum. Photography by Bob Packert

Plan your visit


PEM is open Mondays, Thursdays, Fridays, Saturdays & Sundays 10 am–5 pm.

Learn what steps are being taken to ensure the health and safety of our community at pem.org/safety.

Visitors may purchase advanced general admission tickets at pem.org/tickets or by calling 978-542-1511.

Admission: Adults $20; seniors $18; students $12; youth, members, and Salem residents free.

Location: East India Square, 161 Essex Street, Salem, MA 01970.

Related \\ Connected

Movement in nature

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Planning The Pod

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Inspired by birds and bees