As part of our commitment to fostering a more vibrant city through bold public art, we strive to build culturally responsive relationships through our partnerships and participatory programs. This year at Lot Lab is no different; we are connecting with the community of Charlestown and beyond through dynamic programming of performance, spoken word, theater, workshops, and much more.
Fresh off the incredible feat of bringing Simone Leigh’s spectacular artworks from Boston to Venice and then to Boston, Kate Herlihy brings to Now + There balanced respect for artists’ vision with planning rigor. blu prinston, N+T Communications Assistant, chatted with Kate about how early access to arts education, mentorship, and teamwork make her ready to “pay it forward” as N+T’s Managing Director.
As a veteran of two Chicago Architectural Biennales, Marguerite Wynter brings FOMO-inducing stories of events we all missed out on—did we hear joy riding through the South Side?—and a deep commitment to engaging community in the co-creation of public art. Learn more about Marguerite and drop her a line to welcome her to a new event, space, or idea!
Now that we’re getting ready to launch Lot Lab in the Charlestown Navy Yard on June 7, I’ve been reflecting a lot on my Now + There journey, which began with me becoming a Public Art Ambassador two summers ago. If you’re considering becoming a Public Art Ambassador for Lot Lab, I hope my reflections about my time as a PAA can help to guide you!
Talking to artists and community members--listening and learning from them--brings life to all our projects. This year of Mending looks at stories of innovation, global connection, individual perseverance, and tenacity, weaving together the impossible and offering opportunities to amplify what is most delicate (collective joy), transient (dreams), or everlasting (love) in our interconnected world.
Since its inception, Black History Month has stood as a clear call toward active listening, critical thinking, and consistent practice of sustainable values, agreements, and cultures. We have the tools we need to grow and opt for different choices instead of answering to the urge of making the same choice(s) over and over again. Keep reading for nudges to help activate your learning and practice! Send us YOUR leads!
Now + There projects respond to artists and audiences on what they need and want; Since our inception, we have tried to listen for and learn how to support and facilitate engaging public art experiences. In 2023, we present women who create monumental works that offer room to be in a community along the waters that connect Boston to the globe. Together, artists and audiences will revise and design new legacies for Boston's waterfront.
N+T Communications Assistant Blu recently touched base with local artist and muralist Percy Fortini-Wright. This interview explores his practice and latest mural, Charlesgate, at 139 Main Street, Kendall Square, Cambridge, commissioned by MIT Investment Management Company’s Kendall Square Public Arts Initiative and curated by Now + There.
Harvest season is upon us. As stands our annual tradition, we use this time to reflect and express gratitude for the incredible year Now + There has had.
We take this time and space to celebrate the artists, partners, community members, generous supporters, and especially the participants in our public art experiences, who are at the center of all we do. Your engagement drives us towards a more robust and vibrant #PublicArtCity.
From our Catalyst Circle to Leadership Circle to 24/7 Circle, to the meaningful contributions of friends and neighbors, we are all helping to infuse more enjoyment in Boston. This month we are celebrating two major donors who have made significant investments in N+T: Barr Foundation and Wagner Foundation.
During Rixy’s recent picnic and mural celebration on Saturday, October 15th Pa*Lante, Curatorial Assistant Jasper Sanchez, encouraged the artist to reflect on her new mural at 301 Highland Ave in Roxbury’s Fort Hill. This soundbite offers some highlights from their exchange, with additional details that situate Rixy’s themes and motifs within a larger diasporic context. And, to demystify some of the art-making processes we engage in, hear Rixy’s detailed applications of studies and experience to offer one of her latest contributions to the community.
