First Look 2025

Every photograph tells a story. When part of a body of work, the photograph takes on new meaning, becoming part of a bigger and more complete narrative. A portfolio allows the photographer to explore the complexities of their subject, and provide context that gives it richness and meaning that is more than the sum of its parts. Panopticon Gallery is pleased to share “First Look 2025,” our annual juried portfolio showcase, where five portfolios have been selected for exhibition on view from February through April 2025. This year, we are pleased to announced the addition of a secondary gallery space within Panopticon, called The Wall at Panopticon Gallery. The Wall’s first exhibition, First Look: Second Glance, will run in tandem alongside First Look 2025. Join us for an in-person reception of both First Look 2025 and First Look: Second Glance Thursday, February 13th from 6pm to 8pm.

Panopticon Gallery

Panopticon Gallery Process Exhibition 

Photography is not just the final product; it is the journey, the labor, the materials, and the moments of transformation. Process is an exhibition that celebrates the act of creation itself—where the process to make the work becomes as significant as the outcome. This exhibition highlights works deeply influenced by the techniques, methods, and the collaborative engagements that shape them. Using experimental techniques, traditional alternative processes, and the dynamic interplay of multiple voices, Process celebrates the act of making— blurring the lines between artist, materials, and viewer. The process is not hidden behind the finished work, but is revealed for the viewer. Whether through the use of alternative processes such as cyanotype, printmaking, camera-less photography, or the melding of individual voices in collaborative efforts, the artists featured in Process invite us to engage with the work at every stage, experiencing art as it is being made rather than as something final and fixed. We invite viewers to step inside the process, to appreciate the techniques and methods that make these works possible, and to celebrate the inherent beauty in the act of making. Join Panopticon Gallery on Thursday December 12th at 6pm-8pm for the artist's reception of Process, an exhibition featuring the work of David Haley, Fruma Markowitz, Sara Silks, John Savoie, Lisa Tang Jiu, J David Tabor, and Amisha Thakkar. Can't make it to the reception? Process is on view December 6th - February 6th. Panopticon Gallery, located inside Hotel Commonwealth, is free and open to the public 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

How I Spent My Summer Vacation…

OPENING RECEPTION: THURSDAY SEPTEMBER 19TH 6PM-8PM ON VIEW: 9/6 - 11/1 Inspired by the timeless back-to-school essay prompt, “How I Spent My Summer Vacation…” celebrates the joys of a carefree summer through the lens of nostalgic reflection. “How I Spent My Summer Vacation” shares the vividness of summer memories, capturing the glow of endless sunlit days and warm summer nights. This exhibition features 25 photographs by twelve photographers—each image a poignant answer to the classic essay question. From sun-drenched afternoons and family road trips, to tranquil moments of summer solitude, these images tell personal stories that resonate with a universal sense of summer nostalgia.

Glacier: Bradford Washburn’s Mountain Photography Meets Contemporary Counterpart

Panopticon Gallery proudly presents Glacier: Bradford Washburn’s Mountain Photography Meets Contemporary Counterpart. From May through July 2024, Alex Joseph Hansen’s 20 photographs of the Alaskan glacial system and its counterparts will be on view. Join us for an artist talk and reception May 23rd from 6 - 8pm. On view: May 1st 2024 through July 31st 2024 at Panopticon Gallery Exhibition reception: May 23rd 2024, from 6pm to 8pm with an artist talk at 7pm. Location: Panopticon Gallery, 502c Commonwealth Ave (inside Hotel Commonwealth), Boston MA, 02115 For further information/inquiries: www.panopticongallery.com, 781-740-1300, director@panopticongallery.com&nbsp;

First Look 2024

Every photograph tells a story. When part of a body of work, the photograph takes on new meaning, becoming part of a bigger and more complete narrative. A portfolio allows the photographer to explore the complexities of their subject, and provide context that gives it richness and meaning that is more than the sum of its parts. Panopticon Gallery is pleased to share “First Look 2024,” our annual juried portfolio showcase, where five portfolios have been selected for exhibition on view from February through April 2024. On View: February 15th, 2024 - April 30th 2024 Exhibition Reception: Thursday February 15th, 6pm-8pm

All Down the Line: The Rolling Stones in Boston Artist Reception

Join us for an unforgettable evening as we dive into the photographic history of The Rolling Stones in Boston. Former Boston Globe journalist Ted Gartland presents a selection of images from his decade-spanning archive of The Rolling Stones in Boston. This in-person exhibition reception will take place on Thursday, September 21, 2023 at 6:00 PM (EDT). Located at 502c Commonwealth Avenue (inside the hotel), this exhibition transports you back in time to the electrifying performances and cultural impact of The Rolling Stones in the heart of Boston. Whether you're a die-hard fan or simply curious about rock 'n' roll history, this event is a must-attend. Don't miss this opportunity to relive the magic and hear captivating tales about The Rolling Stones' memorable moments in Boston. Mark your calendars and secure your spot for an evening that will rock your world!

By Your Window

Join Panopticon Gallery on Friday, June 9th at 6pm-8pm for the artist's reception of By Your Window, an exhibition featuring the photographs of Alexa Cushing and Connor Noll. Stop by Panopticon Gallery on June 9th to sip on a glass of wine, view the artwork, and meet the artists.   Can't make it to the reception? By Your Window is on view May 8th - July 31st. Panopticon Gallery, located inside Hotel Commonwealth, is free and open to the public 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

Panopticon Gallery (inside Hotel Commonwealth)

Panopticon Gallery First Look 2023 Exhibition Reception

On View: February 1st 2023 –March 31st 2023   Opening Reception: Thursday February 9th 2023 6pm-8pm at Panopticon Gallery 502c Commonwealth Avenue (Inside Hotel Commonwealth) Boston, MA 02215   Blurb:  Every photograph tells a story. When part of a body of work, the photograph takes on new meaning, becoming part of a bigger and more complete narrative. A portfolio allows the photographer to explore the complexities of their subject, and provide context that gives it richness and meaning that is more than the sum of its parts. Panopticon Gallery is pleased to share “First Look 2023,” our annual juried portfolio showcase, where five portfolios have been selected for exhibition on view from February through March 2023.   Artists: Austin Cullen, Porter Gifford, Owen McCarter, Catherine Panebianco, Ann Prochilo

Noiseland: The Music of Boston

Boston is rich with music history. From the prominent bands that got their start here, the local acts, well-loved venues, and enthusiastic fans, it is clear that the people of Boston are dedicated to supporting their community. Kenmore Square, where Panopticon Gallery is located today, was once home to some of Boston’s most loved venues. Panopticon stands at the former site of The Rathskeller, a music venue celebrated as the catalyst of Boston rock and roll. Although the landscape of the neighborhood has since changed, concertgoers can attend shows at a selection of established locations, as well the new venues that have opened their doors over the last few years.    Noiseland: The Music of Boston features the work of several Boston-based music photographers, photographs of iconic musicians, and images of the crowds that cheered them on. Noiseland: The Music of Boston pays homage to the ever-changing Boston music scene; offering a glimpse into the cultural impact of city’s musical past while also looking forward to what is to come.

Tender Age

On View: July 25-September 30 Opening Reception: Thursday August 18th 2022 6pm-8pm Panopticon Gallery's summer exhibition, Tender Age, features the work of 16 artists whose work observes and reflects on the fleeting years of childhood and the small moments that go along with it. Join us for a glass of wine at the opening reception on August 18th 6pm-8pm. The show is on view July 26th through the end of September.

S22: conversations

Wondering what to do in Boston? Places to eat? Free activities? Good for a group? Date night spot? Girls night out? The best things to do? Ask Joyraft!

Best places to go in Boston? Things to do? Places to eat?

Questions & answers about things to do in Boston

Recs 💬

Community recs 💬

S4: top picks

The most fun, cool and unique things to do in Boston. Can’t miss events, shows and experiences. Concerts, restaurants, bars, free things in Boston and beyond.

The most fun and cool events happening around Boston

Hot and new things to do in Boston

Hot & new

Hot & new 🔥

S11: happening this weekend

What to do in Boston this weekend? From festivals, concerts, performances, free events, screenings and more, Joyraft has the best things to do in Boston.

25+ things to do in Boston/Cambridge/Somerville this weekend

Things to do in Boston this weekend

This wknd

This weekend for you

S19: interest based

WBUR’s 75th birthday celebrations 💫

S21: roundups

Our top picks: outdoor dining, free events, spring festivals, best bars, upcoming concerts, museum parties - the latest in and around Boston.  Slug: joyraft-top-picks-best-things-to-do-boston-ma

Top picks of the best things to do in and around Boston

Joyraft picks: Boston’s best things to do

Roundups ⭐️

Curated by Joyraft ⭐️

S28: calendar experiences

This week in Boston

This week in Boston 📆

This week 📆

S20: c+d experiences

Discover new, unique events and experiences happening in and around Boston. Perfect for date night, good for a group or with a friend. Be the first to know.

The newest events happening in and around Boston

The newest events on Joyraft

Just added

Just added to Joyraft

S16: editor picks

The most unique and can’t miss things coming up in Boston / Cambridge / Somerville and beyond. Festivals, food, drinks, fairs, concerts, art and free activities.

Unique and Can’t Miss Things to Do in Boston

Can’t-miss things to do in Boston 🚨

Can't-miss things to do 🚨

S2 (A): top experiences

The most popular things to do on Joyraft. Concerts, restaurants, bars, events, parties, openings, kid friendly, date ideas, free things in Boston and beyond.

Top 20 things to do in Boston

Top 20: Joyraft’s most popular

Top 20

Top 20 on Joyraft

S3 (A): trending experiences

Discover can’t miss events and things to do in Boston. The most fun, unique and cool events coming to the Boston area this spring and summer.

The hottest events happening in Boston

Trending events on Joyraft

Trending 📈

S17: interest based

Your guide to everything free in and around Boston. From events, to fairs, to festivals, to outdoors. Joyraft has all the free events happening near you.

100+ free things to do in Boston and beyond

Free things to do in Boston

Free things to do

S18: interest based

Where to eat and drink in Boston? Joyraft has Boston’s newest bars, restaurants and specials. Drinks and pre fixe dinner menus. Cambridge & Somerville too.