Town of Brookline Launches Spring Calls for Artists for the Brookline Art Makes Community Public Art Initiative

BROOKLINE — The Town of Brookline announces the launch of its Spring Calls for Artists for the Brookline Art Makes Community (BAMC) public art initiative. 

Brookline Art Makes Community (BAMC) is a testament to the Town of Brookline’s commitment to fostering creativity, supporting local businesses, and enriching the cultural fabric of the community. With the support of the Select Board and funding from the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA), BAMC continues to make strides in enhancing Brookline’s commercial areas and creating visually captivating spaces for all to enjoy.

By 2025, the Town plans to install more than 45 new permanent public art installations in the form of murals, sculptures, utility box art, etc. throughout Coolidge Corner, Brookline Village, Washington Square, St. Mary’s Station, and JFK Crossing.

This initiative, aimed at invigorating Brookline’s commercial areas with creativity and vibrancy, seeks submissions from artists, choreographers, and enthusiasts eager to contribute to the visual tapestry of the community. With a variety of opportunities available, BAMC invites artists to submit proposals for projects that will enliven the Town’s public spaces and engage both residents and visitors.

The Town invites artists to apply for the following projects:

1. Wrapped Boxes Around Town (BoxART): Artists are invited to submit artwork designs for consideration in transforming utility boxes into captivating pieces of art through vinyl wrapping. These installations, known as BoxART, provide a canvas for artists to infuse color, whimsy, and narrative into the everyday streetscape. The deadline to apply is Friday, March 29, at 12 p.m.
   Application Form: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/WBAT24
2. Painted Boxes Around Town: For those who prefer the brush to the vinyl, BAMC offers the opportunity to paint utility boxes, turning them into dynamic works of art that reflect the spirit and diversity of Brookline. The deadline to apply is Friday, March 29, at 12 p.m. Application Form: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/PBAT24
3. Murals Around Town: The canvas expands with BAMC’s call for mural artworks, inviting artists to leave their mark on the Town’s walls and surfaces, creating large-scale pieces that inspire and provoke thought. The deadline to apply is Friday, May 31, at 12 p.m. Application Form: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/MuralsAroundTown
4. Turkeys Around Town: As a tribute to the unofficial mascots of Brookline, BAMC introduces a new addition to its repertoire: personalized fiberglass turkey sculptures. Inspired by the iconic “Cow Parade,” these turkey sculptures will add a touch of whimsy and charm to Brookline’s commercial areas. Artists are encouraged to submit proposals for designing and decorating these avian canvases, bringing their unique vision to life. The deadline to apply is Friday, March 29, at 12 p.m. Application Form: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/TurkeysAroundTown

Turkeys Around Town Online Poll: In addition to the calls for artists, BAMC is hosting an online poll to gather input on possible themes for the Fall 2024 round of turkey sculptures. With 10 turkey sculptures slated for installation, residents and art enthusiasts are invited to cast their votes and help shape the artistic landscape of Brookline.
Online Poll: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/TurkeyThemePoll

Call for Choreographers:

The Town of Brookline and Brookline Commission for the Arts are working with local public artist Kit Collins to create two dance diagram sidewalk murals in Brookline’s vibrant commercial area. The Town is seeking two choreographers to provide the dance inspiration for this new public art.

Dancers and choreographers of all backgrounds, professional and amateur, are encouraged to apply. The deadline is March 1. Visit the form link below to apply:

Application Form:https://forms.gle/eRw3gxqz367fUvLR7

“The Spring 2024 Calls for Artists marks an exciting new chapter for Brookline Art Makes Community,” said Town Administrator Chas Carey. “We look forward to seeing the creativity and talent that artists bring to these projects, and the positive impact they will have on our community.”

About Brookline Art Makes Community (BAMC)

Brookline Art Makes Community (BAMC) is a public art initiative aimed at enhancing the vibrancy and visual appeal of Brookline’s commercial areas by infusing public art and placemaking activations. BAMC seeks to engage artists, residents, and visitors in celebrating creativity and fostering community pride. Through a variety of programs and installations, BAMC aims to create visually captivating spaces that reflect the diversity and spirit of Brookline.

For more information about BAMC and the Spring Calls for Artists, visit the BAMC webpage here, or contact Economic Development Planner Aaron Norris at anorris@brooklinema.gov.