At Now + There, we believe public art has the power to open up Boston. And we’re committed to fostering artists who break down biases and shed light on often-overlooked people and issues, while also providing moments of joy and respite that enliven our neighborhoods and city.
That’s why we’re thrilled to introduce a revised 16-month N+T Public Art Accelerator — open to all Boston-area residents to apply — starting summer 2021.
The Accelerator, Cohort Four, will provide four Boston-area artists with tools, resources, and cohort-style workshops -- plus the option to produce a work of art with $25,000 in funding -- so they may confidently and empathetically participate in the dynamic field of temporary public art. For all of Boston, the Accelerator supports public art experiences that build toward a more vibrant and equitable city.
An open application will begin May 21 and close June 15, 2021. Sign up to be the first to receive the application and news about other resources for artists interested in creating public art.
The Accelerator is a two-phased program: a fast-paced, 6-month cohort learning environment (July 2021 - January 2022) with the option to submit a project for funding and develop it over 8-months with N+T support (February - October 2022). Cohort-model workshops support the development of skills (e.g., budgeting, insurance) and sensibilities (e.g., empathetic listening, contract negotiation) to succeed in the dynamic field of public art. Artists working towards a conceptual design may present to a jury for the opportunity to receive $25,000 in funding and production support from Now + There to create a neighborhood-centric project by October 2022.
While we put finishing touches on the application, FAQs, drop-in application nights, here are few things you can do to get ready to apply:
Consider why hands-on support, resources, and cohort experience of the Accelerator could benefit your practice. (Hint, it’s one of the questions!)
Start organizing your images. Up to 10 may be submitted.
Check out past Accelerator projects and the Accelerator Forum for inspiration.
Sign up to receive word when the application opens.
Now + There values new perspectives and opinions and a thoughtful approach to our work of building an open public art city. We acknowledge the unjust power dynamics inherent in contemporary art exhibitions and in the creation of works displayed in the public realm. We are committed to building more equitable ways of public-making by creating greater involvement and learning with communities of color, Black, and Indigenous Peoples in the creation of public artworks; ultimately co-creating diverse public audiences and building toward more openness in Boston. We respect and hold room for differences across race, ethnicity, culture, gender identity, sexuality, socioeconomic status, and physical abilities. We are committed to racially diversifying our staff, Board, vendors, and the artists we support. We strongly encourage Black, Brown, Indigenous, and candidates of color to apply for the Accelerator, Cohort Four.
Image: Roxbury Sunflower Project at Freedom House by Ekua Holmes.