"This is the 6th annual 100 Artists Show for the gallery," said Mary Lou Zeek, the gallery's owner.  "The artists donate the pieces, and the money paid for the art goes to a charity."

The show features what Zeek calls "Mail Art."  

Each of the artists is mailed an object which must form the nucleus of his or her piece. Objects are mailed "as is" with the postage and address directly on the object. Past objects included a piece of  plywood, scratchboard, and a piece of cardboard.  This year's object is an eight by eight-inch wooden box. The box has hinges and a cover, a bit like a small writer's desk.  

Each year a different nonprofit benefits from the show; this year, proceeds from the show will go to Poyoma Day Treatment Center, which serves children who have suffered abuse and neglect. Like many social services programs, Poyoma has experienced drastic budget cuts that have forced it to curtail its ceramics and arts programs, and cut back on some of its individualized treatment options.  
The choice of a hinged wooden box was not random. The box, with its open space, is supposed to represent what is inside the child. Artists were given four questions that they were to ask a child. The questions, which are to be included inside the finished piece, continue the "what's inside" theme: "When you are scared what makes you feel safe?  What does it feel like to be powerful? What secret wish do you have that would make your world a better place? If you could change one thing in your world, what would it be?"

Artists were encouraged to incorporate the theme of mental well-being of children in completing their pieces. At the same time, artists were advised to do what they do best -- their art. In viewing objects from past years it is clear that many artists do incorporate the year's theme into their pieces.  

How did Zeek accumulate 100 artists for the show?  

"We started with a core group of artists that show at the gallery. We asked those artists who they knew, and it grew from there."  

Artists from across the United States participate, as well as from Canada, and as far away as Spain.  
"I love giving assignments," Zeek said. "The assignments push artists in new directions."  The artists involved practice in multiple media, and the object used in any given year might be a stretch from an artist's comfort zone. A flat box might challenge a sculptor one year, or a painter must contend with a three-dimensional object.  
Sales are conducted through a silent auction. Bidding for each object starts at $50 and cannot go higher than $200.  

"We want it to be available and accessible to everyone," Zeek said. "The show offers a way for people to buy a piece of art from someone they wouldn't be able to otherwise."  

Those interested in viewing the 2008 show can stop into the gallery, which is located at 335 State Street in Salem, or view the pieces online at zeekgallery.com.