Art serves as a transformative medium to build cultural identity and drive economic growth in New Bedford.
SHELTER, a two-year initiative presented in partnership with the Massachusetts Design Art & Technology Institute (DATMA), aimed to activate New Bedford’s spaces with culturally relevant public art, drew upon the city’s current and historic identity to increase placemaking and unlock future growth.
SHELTER, a two-year initiative presented in partnership with the Massachusetts Design Art & Technology Institute (DATMA), aimed to activate New Bedford’s spaces with culturally relevant public art, drew upon the city’s current and historic identity to increase placemaking and unlock future growth.
Public Art
Free, accessible public art helped to weave arts and culture into the social fabric of the community.
Free, accessible public art helped to weave arts and culture into the social fabric of the community.
Outdoor Spaces
Already-active downtown spaces were enhanced with art for an even greater sense of place and belonging.
Already-active downtown spaces were enhanced with art for an even greater sense of place and belonging.
The SouthCoast’s history, economy, and culture is rooted in shelter, from its place on the Underground Railroad to the barier that protects the city’s harbor from hurricanes. SHELTER honors that legacy while building the future of New Bedford’s economic, physical, and social systems.
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