Housed in a former horse barn painted a cheery yellow, Chatham's Munson Gallery still possesses the charm of its farming roots. Some of the original stalls remain intact, providing an inventive space for exhibits. This summer marks the gallery's 55th season, making it the "oldest ongoing gallery on Cape Cod," owner Sally Munson says with pride.

As the fourth-generation in her family to own and operate an art gallery, Munson clearly has the business in her blood. Her great-grandfather opened the first family gallery in New Haven, CT in 1860. As a young girl, Munson came to Chatham every summer before moving here permanently in the 1970s. She took over the operation of the gallery from her father ten years ago.

Now open year-round, though only by appointment during the winter, the gallery displays paintings, sculptures, and prints by several dozen different artists. "We've represented some artists for many years," Munson says as she looks around the room, noting that the gallery has represented well-known Cape painter Arthur Cohen for more than 40 years. However, Munson notes that she strives to bring in new artists every season.

Munson says that her gallery sells "art that is easy to live with." However, she is also conscious of exhibiting a variety of styles and mediums, making sure to have more than just Cape-inspired artwork. The Munson Gallery also features a wide range of prices, in an attempt to "offer something for everybody." Nevertheless, the gallery has felt the effects of the challenging economy, with summer sales down by 35 percent last season.

However, in 2009 the gallery is brimming with colorful paintings, sculpture, and prints, and Sally Munson remains in good spirits. "It's a labor of love, really," she says. "I love spending the day surrounded by these great pieces of art." --Libby Bouck

The Munson Gallery is located at 880 Main Street, Chatham, MA, 508-945-2888, www.munsongallery.net.

Libby Bouck is an editorial intern at Cape Cod Life Publications.