AMHERST LOCAL NONPROFITS TEAM UP TO CELEBRATE BIPOC EXPERIENCE IN $10K GRANT FOR KENDRICK PARK ART INSTALLATION AMHERST, MA
The Amherst Public Art Commission (APAC), in partnership with the Amherst Business Improvement District ((Amherst BID), and the New England Foundation for the Arts (NEFA) has extended the May 14 deadline to June 1 for a $10K grant for one public art commission as part of the "Making it Public" project.
“Making it Public” is a NEFA initiative aimed at providing both equitable processes for supporting temporary artmaking and strengthening artists’ capacity to expand their work in public art. APAC’s goal for the Amherst project is to creatively engage visitors to the park to recognize the cultural, social, economic, and/or environmental impact of Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (BIPOC) who call(ed) Amherst their home. The goal is to create a space to celebrate our diverse community and the importance of BIPOC to the story of Amherst.
Applications for the grant are open (see link below) and require the project to have a three dimensional element, to be able to be installed on a 4 by 4 foot concrete base, weather-durable, and ADA compliant. Priority will be given to BIPOC artists who call(ed) Amherst their home. This opportunity is funded in partnership with the NEFA, the Amherst BID, and the Metropolitan Area Planning Council (MAPC).
An Art Jury engaged with the work of screening applicants and reviewing submissions will consist of a diverse swath of community members, commissioners, and town representatives The selected artist will be notified by June 20, 2023 and must have a final design prepared for August 1st. The final project is scheduled to be installed in the park by November 2023, with a public unveiling and community celebration following
Any further questions about the project or application process can be directed to Gabrielle Gould, BID Director, via gabrielle@amherstdowntown.com
The Amherst BID is controlled and financed by the district’s property owners. A board of directors representing property owners, retailers, residents, businesses and town and academic institutions provide guidance to the BID team hired to manage and implement visions and plans. We serve as the voice and advocate for the district and promote Amherst Downtown as a highly desirable place to work, live, experience and explore.
Online Application
Full Call for Artists and Project Details
More information can be found at their website www.amherstdowntown.com or via email info@amherstdowntown.com