Interested in creating public art in Boston?


Why am I completing this form?
The Mayor’s Office of Arts and Culture and the Boston Art Commission believe that public art is any artwork installed in publicly accessible spaces where they can be experienced by everyone for free. In order to install art on public property, you will need approval from the Boston Art Commission and the department that owns the site.
Complete this form to start the approval process! Once you submit your application, the public art team will be in touch but you can reach out to us with questions at anytime! Please email us at BAC@boston.gov.

Please check out our website to see calls to artists and other opportunities! This form is not an application for funding but there are a couple of different options for finding funding through the city. You can also apply for the Opportunity Fund.

Artist Housing Certification Guidelines

What is an Artist Certificate? 

An Artist Housing Certificate is a letter from Mayor’s Office of Arts and Culture. The letter confirms that the artist has been active in their artistic practice in the past three years. An Artist Housing Certificate qualifies an artist as eligible for artist live/work housing and some work space in Boston. The Artist Housing Certification is valid for a period of eight years. Upon expiration, the artist will need to reapply to receive a new Artist Housing Certification. The Mayor's Office of Arts and Culture keeps a list of all spaces for artists in the City of Boston, whether they require the Artist Certification or not. Review those spaces here. The Mayor's Office of Arts and Culture does not maintain a waitlist for these spaces and is not able to confirm when these spaces will become available.


Who is eligible for an Artist Housing Certification?

Applicants must able to demonstrate that they have a recent body (last three years) of artwork and must be at least 18 years of age. Artists in the following disciplines are considered:

  • Visual Arts: including painting, printmaking, sculpture, photography, conceptual art, craft arts (ceramics, woodworking, jewelry, etc.), architecture/design (not including engineering and home staging), media arts, film, and new media.
  • Performing Arts: including dance, theater, and music.
  • Literary Arts: including fiction, non-fiction, poetry, and spoken word.
  • Multidisciplinary Art

If you are a commercial artist who has an office space to do your work, and/or works for a company instead of for yourself (sole proprietor) we require examples of your personal fine art to ensure that you need an artist space for your artistic work. This is also the case for artists who are employed full-time in other industries.

Who reviews the applications?

The Artist Resource Manager in the Mayor's Office of Arts and Culture reviews applications.

The decision of the Artist Resource Manager is final. If an applicant is not certified during this round, it is because they were not able to convey that they have been actively making art in the past three years through their application.

Applications will be reviewed based on the following criteria.

  • Evidence of a recent body of work (last three years), demonstrated by an artistic resume or CV that lists dates and locations of exhibitions, publications, performances, press, awards, artist residencies, jobs held in arts discipline field, and formal training if you have it.
  • Documentation of artwork (or "work samples) including image files, video clips, and writing samples. Files must be dated or they will not be considered. 
  • One reference letter of support from peers and professionals in the arts who can confirm you have been active in your artistic practice over the past three years.

When are applications accepted?

Applications for the Artist Certification are reviewed every other month. Please check out website to see when we will be reviewing applications.

When will I hear back about the status of my application?

Use the link above to check when we will be reviewing applications.

What is Automatic Certification?

Automatic certification is granted to artists who have received any of the following awards in the last 3 years: the Massachusetts Cultural Council Artist Fellowship, The Boston Foundation Brother Thomas Fellowship, the Boston Cultural Council Artist Fellowship, or the City of Boston Emerging Artist Award.

To receive automatic certification, please fill out your name and contact information in the Artist Housing Certification application and upload your fellowship letter in the Work Samples section. Letter must prove reception of award in the past three years.

The Strand Theatre serves as a cultural and educational resource to artists and audiences, regardless of race or cultural background, age, ability, gender, economic level, or sexual orientation. Please complete the application below based on your rental needs.

Please note: The first quote for your event is an estimate only. A final quote cannot be completed until all technical information and production schedule are complete and reviewed by the Strand Technical Director and General Manager. All forms and schedules must be reviewed no later than 60 days prior to your event.

Things to know before you apply:

Ticketing

Tickets may be produced through the Strand Theatre's box office (fees apply). Renters may print their own tickets and have the right to sell tickets at a third party location, however tickets cannot be sold until the following are completed:

  • Lease application
  • Signed contract
  • Insurance certificate
  • Copy of headliner signed contract with the organization (if applicable)

Insurance

Lessee must provide their own liability insurance. They must obtain either a one day entertainment policy (coverage of one million of liability minimum) or a rider from their existing policy. Insurance must list additional insured as the Strand Theatre - location and venue Strand Theatre, 543 Columbia Rd, Dorchester, MA. 02125

Hip Hop, hard rock performances, and sporting events are not covered under standard liability. A copy of secured insurance must be provided at least 30 days in advance. Failure to provide an accurate genre description of your event or artist roster will result in an automatic termination of your event.

If service of liquor is approved for your event, you must apply for a one day liquor license from the City of Boston and apply for liability coverage at least 60 days prior to your event. Service must be by a licensed bartender. This coverage is only applicable provided the venue has not obtained coverage and is not operating a house bar. Lessee will provide 2 copies of all permits and licenses. Lessee may obtain liquor services from a catering company that has a traveling liquor liability license and tip certified bartender for service (this is the best option).

Event Security

Security guards are booked based on the number of patrons expected and the type of performance. Changes to booking must be completed at least two weeks prior to the event. Boston Police details are booked on the same criteria and are at the discretion of management (and in some instances, the Boston Police Department). Management reserves the right to add additional security staff during an event at the Lessees' expense. Laminates or optional pre-approved staff recognition badges are required for Lessees' event staff. In addition, a list of all approved backstage staff employed by Lessee and Artist/Performers must be provided.

Advertisement and Website

Events will be linked on the Strand Theatre website at no cost to Lessee. All clients advertising a ticketed event must also create an event listing on the ArtsBoston calendar and send it to us prior to the event. Events will be listed on a revolving marquee with all other scheduled events. Please provide a description of your event and send a flier, photo or image for the website. Other than the above mentioned advertisement and listing, The Strand is not responsible for any additional advertisement, media, print or video marketing of the Lessee’s event.

Video/Photos/Audio

It is at the discretion of the Lessee to allow video/audio or photos. All photography stations must not obstruct patron aisles or handicap seating. All cables and wiring running on or through walkways, stairs or entrances, must be secured and taped down properly. Please discuss set up area requirements with the Technical Director. Bring extra gaffing tape and/or walkway covers to prevent cancellation of use.

Event Merchandise Sales

The Strand has 10 2x6 folding tables and 50 folding chairs for use during events. The rental of additional tables and chairs are the Lessee’s responsibility. You must supply all table cloths.

Merchandise sales may include CDs, DVDs, clothing, photos, and books. If approved, any edible items require a one day vendor’s license and health permit, obtained from City Hall. All food vendors must be pre-approved by the Strand General Manager. Two copies of all paperwork must be submitted one week prior to the event. Food items must be wrapped individually and gloves and head nets must be worn at all times. Vendor food items allowed - cupcakes, specialty cookies and other pre-approved baked goods associated with the event. There is a power source to assist with the selling of merchandise and all extension cords must be supplied by vendors.

There is a $25.00 fee, per station required for the sale of any and all merchandise, by Lessee and/or Lessee’s vendors. It must be in the form of a bank check or money order, made out to the Strand Theatre. All fees apply unless waived by the Strand General Manager.

Decorations

Allowed decorations include: balloons, free standing displays, posters, photographs, informational displays, literature tables, approved banners, and flowers. Drapery/fabric is permitted only if they meet safety/fire codes for the venue. You must provide a copy of all current fire retardant certificates for these items.

The gallery space has hanging lips for artwork and 12 picture hanging rods. Lessee/ its vendors must get pre-approval before any items are affixed to the walls. Due to the age of the plaster on walls you cannot nail or tape items to the walls. Please discuss all decoration ideas for pre-approval.

Event Catering

Organizations can provide catering for the event, which can include full meals. Lessee may use any licensed catering company of their choice. Caterers must provide a copy of all current licenses, fire permits and insurance if applicable and follow all safe serve and food handling requirements for transporting, service and staffing. The Strand does not have a working kitchen space for catering, therefore catering companies providing food service must be completely mobile.

Event Sound

Please refer to the Strand Technical Specifications for house sound equipment.

All wires and cables running throughout walkways, stair and public traffic must be taped down with gaffing tape and/or portable cable walkways. A charge of $35.00 per roll for gaffing tape will apply, if supplied by the Strand. (No exception) This amount will be collected from Lessee prior to the show.

All optional microphones such as body and head microphones must be rented by Lessee. The Strand can supply a vendor contact if needed, but will not be responsible for pick-up and return. The Strand is not responsible for poor sound quality or damages to rented microphones.  Lessee is responsible for providing AAA batteries for each wireless mic required. Fresh batteries for each mic will be required for each performance.

Event Lighting & Scene Requirements

Please refer to Strand Technical Specifications for house lighting equipment provided in the Technical packet.

Basic color washes are available through our technical team. Any color not in the house supply may be supplied with advance notification. Please allow adequate time to restore all house equipment back to its original place after removing it for special lighting and/or sound equipment. Soft Goods: The Strand has a main curtain and valance, three (3) panels of black borders, three (3) sets of black legs, one (1) scrim, one (2) panels Upstage travelers(1) one Cyc and (1) one movie screen for front throw movie projection or color wash . The Strand does not provide rigging /flying hardware other than the line sets available. (See Strand Technical Specifications) We do not provide general construction hardware to organizations nor do we have an area or maintain supplies to build sets in house. It is the Lessee’s responsibility to ensure safe hardware usage and maintenance and to maintain all scenic pieces including fire retardant certificates. Fire certificates must be provided for all upholstered furniture and set design fabrics being used on stage. *** Please allow at least 60 days to complete the Fire Certificate process. Applications are available online through Fire Dept. or at 1010 Massachusetts Ave.

The use of hazing requires fire details and auto-system shut off monitor. The number of marshals is based on the number of patrons and the rate is based on the detail marshal's position rank. Additional fees include fire system monitor turn off/on ($640), truck fee ($50), 7am – 3 pm $130 per hr. after 3 pm $190 per hr.., Sat $190 per hr., Sun $220 per hr. The use of hazing is a lengthy process and must be scheduled 90 days in advance. The Strand’s Fire System will need to be turned off one hour before show begins and remains off until all vapors have dissipated from the theater. A monitor remains at the system for the duration and is billed to Lessee directly. Average cost for hazing use on a weekend is $2500 up per day.

All application forms and permits can be found here: www.boston.gov/departments/fire-prevention/fire-forms-permits-application-and-fees

You must know what kind of machine and chemicals you will be using and it cannot be changed once approved

Restoration Fee

It is the responsibility of the Lessee to allocate enough time in their schedule for load-out and to restore all Strand lighting & sound equipment, staging, and general building areas to the condition in which you received it or back to the Strand working condition if you requested anything removed for your event. Staff hours will be been scheduled and billed into your invoice. However, if additional time is needed due to your organization's failure to comply with restoral requirements, you will be charged a $300.00 restoral fee plus any staff hours required. A walkthrough must be done at the end of Load-out and restoral time, to assess completion and/or damages.

Boston Cultural Council Grant and Application Guidelines

Fall 2024, Fiscal Year 2025


 

Important:

PLEASE NOTE: the BCC Organizational Grant application can be found at the bottom of these guidelines, after scrolling past the BABEL Language Access Notice. Please read the full guidelines in advance of starting your application. You must scroll down the entire page to find the application. The application will be viewable in Submittable if you are logged in.
 

About the Boston Cultural Council and the Grant

The Boston Cultural Council (BCC) distributes general operating grants annually through the BCC Organizational Grant. These funds are sourced from the City of Boston’s Operating Budget, and the Mass Cultural Council (MCC), a state agency, to support small and mid-sized nonprofit and fiscally-sponsored organizations, as well as unincorporated entities and artist collectives. The goal is to foster innovative and original arts, cultural, and creative programming that: 1.) advances a vibrant, creative and just Boston and 2.) improves the quality of life in our city. The BCC grant program aims to work in tandem with other grant programs to ensure that all Boston residents can access and participate in arts programming and creative expression. 


 

The BCC is a 5+ member council composed of Boston residents and is facilitated by the Mayor’s Office of Arts and Culture (MOAC). Council members work in partnership with MOAC on the strategic direction of the grant program, and they also provide final approval of selected grantees. Council members are selected on the basis of their lived experience within Boston’s arts, cultural, and creative communities and their demonstrated commitment to cultural equity.
 


 

Our Commitment To Equity

To truly thrive, Boston must be an equitable city. The Mayor’s Office of Arts and Culture (MOAC) and the Boston Cultural Council acknowledge the systemic harm perpetuated by Boston’s arts sector. People of color in Boston have faced significant barriers to creative resources, space, and economic opportunity. We commit to an intersectional racial justice lens that uplifts those most harmed by systemic oppression and racism. We hold ourselves accountable to implement policies and programs that eliminate structural racism, embrace collective healing, and center BIPOC/ALAANA and LGBTQIA+ community members, as well as those who face discrimination due to their age, gender, disability, social status, neighborhood, citizenship status, and more. The BCC, in partnership with MOAC, envisions a vibrant and creative Boston, where everyone can access and participate in the arts.


 

BCC Grant Strategy and Priorities

Ensuring that BCC grants contribute toward its goals requires a deliberate focus on funding organizations that embody and advance cultural equity within Boston's arts ecosystem. BCC also seeks to address inequities in arts funding across the city. ​A ​2016 study published by The Boston Foundation​ highlights that while small to mid-sized organizations comprise 86% of Boston's arts sector, they receive disproportionately less funding compared to larger institutions. 


 

To counter this imbalance, the BCC prioritizes support for small to mid-sized arts organizations in the Boston arts ecosystem by focusing on organizations with annual budgets under $2 million, committing the majority of grant funds to those with the smallest budgets. Priority is given to organizations where arts and cultural programming are central to their mission. Only organizations who can demonstrate over 50% of their programming is located in the city of Boston are eligible for this grant. In summary, BCC is committed to fund small to mid-sized organizations that exemplify and promote cultural equity in the Boston arts ecosystem.


 

BCC Grant Categories and Eligibility

Grant Categories

Organizations may apply for grants up to a set limit, based on their organizational budget (total expenses from the most recently completed fiscal year). If an organization is selected as a recipient, they will receive the total amount they are eligible for in their budget category. The categories are:


 

Tier 1:  $5,000: Organizations with budgets between $1,000,000 to $2,000,000 qualify for Tier 1. 

Tier 2:  $7,500 Organizations with budgets between $500,000 to $1,000,000 qualify for Tier 2. 

Tier 3:  $10,000 Organizations with budgets less than $500,000 qualify for Tier 3. 


 

Eligibility: Who is Eligible to Apply?

  • 501(c)(3) organizations with budgets under $2 million whose mission and programming demonstrates a clear commitment to foster and sustain the arts and/or cultural creative expression in any arts discipline
  • Boston-based organizations or organizations not based in the City of Boston but whose primary programming takes place in Boston and demonstrates strong community partnership.  Reviewers will be looking for specific examples of public benefit to the people of Boston, and confirmation that the organization provides 50% or more of their programming in the city of Boston.
  • Unincorporated groups can apply with a fiscal sponsor as long as they meet the rest of the eligibility criteria. This includes: artist collectives, volunteer groups, publications, and any other group jointly working toward common creative goals 
  • Organizations can submit only one proposal per funding cycle
  • Organizations with L3C designations are eligible to apply


 

Grant Fund Restrictions

Grant funding may not be used for the following items:

  • To pay salaries or stipends for employees of the Boston school system, library, parks department, or municipality
  • On capital expenditures for schools, libraries, and other municipal agencies
  • On programming that discriminates or discourages participation on the basis of race, gender, religious creed, color, national origin, ancestry, disability, sexual orientation, or age
  • To purchase alcohol
     

Additionally, the BCC does not award grants to: 

  • Individuals (Individual artists seeking funding from the Mayor’s Office of Arts and Culture may be eligible for the Opportunity Fund and the Neighborhood and Downtown Activation Grant. Please see MOAC’s website for grant opportunities.) 
  • K-12 schools or K-12 school foundations 
  • Main Streets organizations
  • Colleges or universities
  • “Friends of…” organizations whose primary purpose is to support government entities
  • Religious organizations or programs of any kind. Religious organizations can serve as fiscal sponsors as long as they are not receiving any of the funds provided.
     

 

How to Apply

Application Checklist 

  • Account registration with Submittable.com
  • Most recent financial information like a board approved budget or a budget completed using the BCC budget template
  • Financial documents such as Forms 990 or 1023 that contain your organization’s EIN, year of formation, and NTEE code (if applicable)
  • Materials for the online application including your organization’s mission statement 
  • Up to three support materials such as brochures, flyers, images, testimonials, or other collateral that demonstrates your programming and mission


 

Application Forms and Submission

BCC uses Submittable for all grant applications. The FY25 BCC Organizational Grant application can be found here. If you would like to review the application questions in advance of starting an application, you can go here. If you are a first time applicant, you will need to create an account with Submittable. Grant updates and final reports will be made through this account, so we recommend using an email address that is generic for your organization - something that multiple people have access to. While we strongly prefer to have all proposals submitted online, we also accept hand-written hard copies using our paper application. Hard copies can be picked up in the MOAC’s office: 1 City Hall Square, Boston, MA 02108 (Eighth floor, Room 802).


 

Application Opening and Deadline

We have an FAQ that you can access here and on our website. We will be updating it weekly to include the questions applicants are sending in and their answers, in case that information is helpful to all other applicants. 


 

If your question is not resolved through the FAQ, or you would like to meet with a staff member, the Mayor’s Office of Arts and Culture will host office hours for applicants to discuss the BCC Organizational Grant and its application. The office hours schedule is as follows:


 

  • Monday, September 9th from 5-6PM EST
  • Wednesday, September 25th from 12-1PM EST
  • Thursday, October 10th from 9AM-10AM EST
     

You can access office hours using this link.
 

If you have any further questions, please email BCC@Boston.gov with the subject line “Question about BCC Grant Application.” Answers to these questions will be added to the FAQ. If you need accommodations or assistance with your application, please contact BCC@Boston.gov. If you would prefer to call, please call 617-635-2787.


 

Review Process

Once received, grant applications are initially reviewed for eligibility and completeness. If eligible and complete, applications are assigned for review, scored via an scoring rubric, discussed and selected by the Grant Advisory Team, and approved by the BCC board. All applicants will be notified of BCC funding decisions in the spring and grants will be disbursed in the spring and summer of 2025. 


 

The BCC is committed to implementing transparent, equitable and inclusive grantmaking practices. The BCC Organizational Grant review process will engage MOAC’s Grant Advisory Team, a cohort of diverse stakeholders inclusive of community members and MOAC staff. The aim of the Grant Advisory Team is to position community members as key decision makers on systems and structures that ultimately have the power to shape their lives and the well-being of their communities.
 

 

Evaluation Criteria

Once basic eligibility is met, proposals will be evaluated based on a set criteria. Please see the scoring rubric (linked above) as part of our full guidelines to learn more.


 

Reconsideration

An applicant may request reconsideration of a decision on its application if the applicant can demonstrate that the BCC failed to follow published application and review procedures. Reconsideration requests must be made in writing (email or hard copy) and sent to the Mass Cultural Council at the address below or to lcc@art.state.ma.us within fifteen (15) days of the notification date on the disapproval letter (postmark date on envelope or timestamp on email). No reconsideration may be requested by grantees regarding their grant size.


 

Mass Cultural Council 

Attn: Community Department 

10 St. James Avenue, 3rd Floor 

Boston, MA 02116-3803


 

Grant Payment

During the 2024-2025 grant cycle, all Boston Cultural Council grants will be made in full and up front. Grant reporting is required for all grant amounts. All grantees must establish a Supplier ID before payment is processed. You can go here to learn how to create a Supplier/Vendor ID. Please email vendor.questions@boston.gov or call 617-961-1058 for additional assistance.


 

Conflict of Interest

The Boston Cultural Council observes the Mass Cultural Council’s Conflict of Interest Policy regarding review panels. To ensure that all review panels are free from conflicts of interests, panelists are required to disclose any current or prospective affiliations they or their immediate family members have with an actual or potential applicant. “Affiliation” applies to employment, board memberships, independent contractual relationships, advisory or policy relationships, substantial contributor relationships, or other financial relationships. In addition, panelists are required to disclose any past or current adversarial relationships with actual or potential applicants. Panelists will not be permitted to participate in discussions or votes relating to applicants with whom they have an affiliation or relationship.




BABEL NOTICE
English: IMPORTANT! This document or application contains important information about your rights, responsibilities and/or benefits. It is crucial that you understand the information in this document and/or application, and we will provide the information in your preferred language at no cost to you. If you need them, please contact us at arts@boston.gov,  LCA@boston.gov  or 617-635-4445.


Spanish-Español: !IMPORTANTE! Este documento o solicitud contiene información importante sobre sus derechos, responsabilidades y/o beneficios. Es fundamental que usted entienda la información contenida en este documento y/o solicitud, y le proporcionaremos la información en su idioma preferido sin costo alguno para usted.  Si lo necesita, póngase en contacto con nosotros en el correo electrónico arts@boston.gov,  LCA@boston.gov  o llamando al 617-635-4445.


Haitian Creole -Kreyòl ayisyen: AVI ENPÒTAN! Dokiman oubyen aplikasyon sa a genyen enfòmasyon ki enpòtan konsènan dwa ou, responsablite ou, ak/oswa benefis ou yo. Li enpòtan ke ou konprann enfòmasyon ki nan dokiman ak/oubyen aplikasyon sa a, e n ap bay enfòmasyon an nan lang ou pi pito an gratis pou ou.  Si w bezwen yo, tanpri kontakte nou nan arts@boston.gov,  LCA@boston.gov oswa 617-635-4445.


Traditional Chinese - 繁體中文: 非常重要!這份文件或申請表格, 包括關於您的權利、責任和/或福利的重要信息。請您務必完全了解這份文件, 或申請表格的全部信息,以及我們會以您選擇的語言,免費向您提供信息。如果您有需要,請聯繫我們 arts@boston.gov,  LCA@boston.gov  電話# 617-635-4445。


Vietnamese - Tiếng Việt: QUAN TRỌNG! Tài liệu hoặc đơn yêu cầu này chứa thông tin quan trọng về các quyền, trách nhiệm và/hoặc lợi ích của bạn. Việc bạn hiểu rõ thông tin trong tài liệu và/hoặc đơn yêu cầu này rất quan trọng, và chúng tôi sẽ cung cấp thông tin bằng ngôn ngữ bạn muốn miễn phí. Nếu bạn cần những dịch vụ này, vui lòng liên lạc với chúng tôi theo địa chỉ arts@boston.gov,  LCA@boston.gov  hoặc 617-635-4445.


Simplified Chinese - 简体中文: 非常重要!这份文件或申请表格, 包括关于您的权利、责任和/或福利的重要信息。请您务必完全了解这份文件, 或申请表格的全部信息,以及我们会以您选择的语言,免费向您提供信息。如果您有需要,请联系我们 arts@boston.gov,  LCA@boston.gov   电话# 617-635-4445。


Cabo Verdean Creole - kriolu: INPURTANTI! Es dukumentu ó aplikason ten informason inpurtanti sobri bu direitus, rasponsabilidadis  i/ó benefísius. Ê krusial ki bu intendi informason na es dukumentu i/ó aplikason ó nu ta da informason na língua di bu preferênsia sen ninhun kustu pa bó. Si bu prisiza del, kontata-nu na arts@boston.gov, LCA@boston.gov  ó  617-635-4445.


  Arabic - العربية
              تنبيه هام! يحتوي هذا المستند أو طلب على معلومات هامة عن حقوقك و/ أو مسؤولياتك و/ أو منافعك. من المهم أن تفهم المعلومات الواردة في هذا المستند و/ أو طلب، وسوف نوفر لك هذه المعلومات بلغة اختيارك دون تحملك أي تكلفة. إذا كنت بحاجة إلى ذلك، يرجى الاتصال بنا على العنوان arts@boston.gov،
              أو LCA@boston.gov، أو رقم الهاتف 6176354445.


Russian -Русский:  ВАЖНО! В этом документе или заявлении содержится важная информация о ваших правах, обязанностях и/или льготах. Для нас очень важно, чтобы вы понимали приведенную в этом документе и/или заявлении информацию, и мы готовы бесплатно предоставить вам информацию на предпочитаемом вами языке. Если Вам они нужны, просьба связаться с нами по адресу электронной почты arts@boston.gov,  LCA@boston.gov, либо по телефону 617-635-4445.


Portuguese - Português:  IMPORTANTE! Este documento ou formulário contém informações importantes sobre os seus direitos, responsabilidades e/ou benefícios. É importante compreendê-las; podemos fornecê-las gratuitamente no idioma de sua preferência. Para solicitar, fale conosco: arts@boston.gov, LCA@boston.gov ou 617-635-4445.


French - Français: IMPORTANT ! Ce document ou cette demande contient des informations importantes concernant vos droits, responsabilités et/ou avantages. Il est essentiel que vous compreniez les informations contenues dans ce document et/ou cette demande, que nous pouvons vous communiquer gratuitement dans la langue de votre choix. Si vous en avez besoin, veuillez nous contacter à arts@boston.gov, LCA@boston.gov ou au 617-635-4445.


Somali - Af Soomaali: MUHIIM AH! Dukumintigaan ama arjigaan waxaa kujira macluumaad muhiim ah oo ku saabsan xuquuqdaada, waajibaadkaaga iyo/ama dheefahaaga. Aad ayey muhiim u tahay inaad fahamto macluumaadka ku qoran dukumintigan iyo/ama dalabkan, waxaana ku siin doonnaa macluumaadka ku qoran luqadda aad doorbidayso iyadoo aan lacag lagaa qaadaynin. Haddii aad u baahatid iyaga, fadlan nagala soo xiriir arts@boston.gov, LCA@boston.gov  ama 617-635-4445.

City of Boston Seeks Submissions for the Poet Laureate of Boston

 

BACKGROUND

Starting Tuesday, August 6, 2024, the City of Boston Mayor’s Office of Arts and Culture will be accepting applications for the 2025 Boston Poet Laureate program. Established in 2008, the Boston Poet Laureate Program has been a cornerstone of Boston’s creative sector, drawing residents into the rich and transformative world of the literary arts. Poetry has the unique power to capture our history, illuminate the present, and spark hope and change for the future. The Poet Laureate serves as an ambassador for Boston’s literary and creative communities, working in tandem with these communities to elevate the role of poetry in the everyday lives of Bostonians and inspire critical reflection through written and spoken word. 

Current Poet Laureate 

Porsha Olayiwola, Boston’s current Poet Laureate, is a kinetic force in the poetry community, both locally and nationally. In addition to being an advocate for Boston poets, Porsha’s works fiercely addresses LGBTQIA+ rights and examines Boston’s progress on issues of race and class. During her tenure, Porsha launched the inaugural Youth Poet Laureate Program, founded the Roxbury Poetry Festival, and amplified the Celtics tribute to legend Bill Russell. Porsha has collaborated with numerous organizations, including The Academy of American Poets, Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum, and Button Poetry.

Previous Poets Laureate

Danielle Legros Georges served as Boston’s Poet Laureate from 2015 to 2019. During her influential tenure the Haitian-born professor, writer, and editor who grew up in Mattapan represented Boston internationally, and spearheaded initiatives including City of Notions: An Anthology of Contemporary Boston Poems (published by the Mayor’s Office in 2017), "Raining Poetry" with Mass Poetry and the Mayor’s Mural Crew, which had poetry appearing on city streets when it rained; "The Languages We Live In,” a multilingual collaboration with the Rose Kennedy Greenway which celebrated Lawrence Weiner's mural "A Translation From One Language to Another"; and a poetry workshop program for seniors in several Boston eldercare facilities, where she coordinated and compensated teaching artists to lead classes.


Sam Cornish was Boston’s inaugural Poet Laureate. Sam, who passed away in 2018, was an educator at Emerson College and other Massachusetts schools; he was an editor, reviewer, bookstore owner, and author of ten poetry collections, including “Dead Beats” (2011) and “Folks Like Me” (1993). Sam was associated with the Black Arts Movement and wrote extensively of African-American history in his poetry.  In addition to serving as  Boston’s Poet Laureate, Sam was a member of Boston bluegrass band, The Lemonshiners.  

 

OVERVIEW

The Poet Laureate will be a significant fixture in Boston's cultural landscape, creating a unique artistic legacy through public readings, civic events, and community engagement. The Poet Laureate will be able to learn, teach, and be a part of the great literary traditions of Boston. They will attend a variety of civic functions, participate in poetry events, and oversee special civic projects.  

The term of service for the Poet Laureate term is four years. Moving forward, MOAC is shifting the Poet Laureate timeline to follow the fiscal year (July 1 - June 31). While the Poet Laureate will be announced in January 2025, the official beginning of the four year term will begin July 1, 2025. There will be some programming between January 2025 and July 2025. 

A Poet Laureate may serve for one term, with the option to extend their term at the Mayor’s discretion. The role is ceremonial and not a political appointment. If the Poet Laureate cannot fulfill their term due to illness, relocation, or inability to perform, the Laureate Selection Panel shall select a new Poet Laureate to complete the term.

Responsibilities

Some duties of the Poet Laureate include, and are not limited to: 

  • Present thematically relevant works at civic events and attend official functions as a literary ambassador.
  • Develop public programming across the City, including workshops and showcasing events.
  • Enhance current Boston Public School and Boston Public Library poetry programs through events, engagement, and outreach.
  • Act as the juror for the Mayor’s Poetry Program at City Hall.
  • Serve as a resource during National Poetry Month each April.
  • Participate in the Youth Poet Laureate application and selection process.
  • Mentor the Youth Poet Laureate through regular meetings, public event preparation, published works, and relationships with Boston Public Schools and Boston Public Libraries. 
  • Work with MOAC to produce virtual and social media content.

Compensation

The Poet Laureate program is budgeted $25,000 each year, to be allocated in the following ways:

  1. Honorarium will total $5,000 per year.
  2. Programmatic and administrative expenses will total $20,000 per year and will be administered by the Mayor’s Office of Arts & Culture.

Intellectual Property

All writings, notes, and original materials produced by the Laureate (as distinct from the poet) during the tenure of the Poet Laureate shall remain the property of the Poet Laureate. However, the City of Boston will have the right to reproduce these works.

Eligibility

The future Poet Laureate will meet the following criteria: 

  • Be at least 21 years of age.
  • Be a City of Boston resident who has lived in the City for a minimum of two years prior to nomination.
  • Display a strong commitment to the community.
  • Be active as a professional poet (i.e. a poet whose work has been published and or presented through a process of independent editorial or curatorial review).
  • Have produced work that:
  • Demonstrates poetic flexibility (i.e. more than one style),
  • Reflects the vibrancy and life of the City of Boston, and
  • Is significant to the citizens of Boston.
  • Capable and enthusiastic to fulfill duties.

 

TIMELINE

Application and nomination form openTuesday, August 6, 2024Office hours/Information Sessions

  • September 6, 2024, 1 p.m.
  • September 12, 2024, 6 p.m.
  • Nomination Form Closes September 13, 2024
  • Application closes Friday, October 11th, 2024 by 5:00pm Please note: this is not a postmark date. Mailed applications must arrive at The Mayor’s Office of Arts and Culture no later than the end of the due date. 
  • Review Process October 2024
  • Notification of interview: November 2024
  • Final Announcement: January 2025
  • Poet Laureate Term July 1, 2025 - June 31, 2029*    

*The Poet Laureate program will move from the calendar year to the fiscal year with the next poet laureate, resulting in a 4.5 year term. Some funds will be available for the January to July transition time. 

 

APPLICATION AND SELECTION PROCESS

Application Guidelines

A Call for Entries will be distributed through various print and online media. The full Boston Poet Laureate 2025 application is available on Submittable. Community members may nominate someone by September 13, 2024, and MOAC will reach out to nominees to invite them to apply if they meet all eligibility criteria. 

All eligible applicants will need the following to apply: 

  • A curriculum vitae or résumé;
  • Four examples of past published work (may include compact video recordings, disc recordings and audio files);
  • A proposal, no longer than five pages, that details how the laureate will benefit, represent, and interact with the citizens of Boston, in accordance with the poet laureate mission statement.
  • Confirmation of City of Boston residency. 
  • Eight legible copies of the application (for those not applying digitally.)

 

While digital entries are preferred and strongly encouraged, printed entries are also welcome and will be given equal consideration. To submit a printed application: 

  • Go here for a printout of the application.
  • Mail to: The Mayor’s Office of Arts and Culture Attn: Boston 2025 Poet Laureate Selection Panel Boston City Hall, Room 802, 1 City Hall Plaza Boston, MA 02201
  • All entries must be submitted in a conventional font (such as Times New Roman) at 12-point size.
  • Photocopied poems from publications are acceptable, however, name and/or address cannot be included. Do not staple documents.
  • If return of materials is desired, enclose a self-addressed envelope with sufficient postage.
  • Faxed or emailed applications will NOT be accepted.

Selection Process

The selection process will consist of two-phases. After an initial screening of eligible applicants, the Laureate Selection Panel will evaluate all entries and choose their top candidates. The Selection Panel will then hold interviews with the final candidates. During the interview, candidates will be asked to read some of their works, along with answering questions related to how they will make use of the Poet Laureateship.

Contact for Questions and/or Application Accommodations 

For further information, or if you need accommodations or assistance with your application, please contact Tom Johnston in the Mayor’s Office of Arts & Culture at 617-635-1238 or thomas.johnston@boston.gov.

Commitment to Racial Equity, Inclusion and Belonging 

The Mayor’s Office is committed to building and maintaining a diverse community. Qualified applicants will be considered regardless of their sex, race, age, religion, color, national origin, ancestry, physical or mental disability, genetic information, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, military and veteran status, or other protected category. Statistics show that women, LGBTQIA+, BIPOC and other structurally marginalized groups apply for opportunities only if they meet 100% of the qualifications. If this program excites you, you are encouraged to apply. No one ever meets 100% of the qualifications. We look forward to your application.

OVERVIEW

The City of Boston is accepting submissions for the annual Fay Chandler Emerging Art Exhibition at the Boston City Hall Galleries, a celebration of the vibrant Boston visual arts community. Artists who live, work, or create in the Greater Boston area are encouraged to apply. Hosted by the Mayor’s Office of Arts and Culture, the Fay Chandler Emerging Art Exhibition will feature contemporary artworks by local emerging artists. Inspired by Fay Chandler, a Boston philanthropist and arts advocate, this exhibition celebrates emerging artists of all ages. Chandler, who began her artistic journey later in life, is a symbol of inspiration and perseverance for our community.

The exhibition will be on display at the Boston City Hall Galleries from November 18 to December 27, 2024.

DEADLINE: October 20, 2024 at 11:59 p.m.

ELIGIBILITY

  • Artists must live, work, or create in the Greater Boston area (Essex, Middlesex, Norfolk, Plymouth or Suffolk County)
  • Artists must be at least 18 years old.
  • Artists must be early in their careers regardless of age, with ambitious goals and demonstrate artistic potential through a solid body of work (examples include someone who has been creating work for five years or less, or who graduated from an Art Degree within the last five years)
  • Artists currently represented by a commercial gallery are ineligible.
  • All artwork submitted must have been created within the last 3 years.

EXHIBITION SPACE AND DETAILS

  • Artists may submit up to 3 artworks for consideration (regardless of medium), if accepted only one will be displayed
  • 2D artworks must be ready to hang (with D-rings or hanging wire) and cannot exceed 30 x 30 in. (including frame).
  • 3D artworks cannot exceed 18in. in diameter.
  • Artworks will be displayed at the Boston City Hall Galleries.
  • Artists are responsible for transporting their artwork to and from the gallery.
  • All artists must sign a waiver. The galleries are not responsible for any damages to artwork while on display.
  • Artists selected for the exhibition will be notified by October 31, 2024.
  • Artwork drop-off will be between November 11-16, 2024.

PRIZES

  • Best in Show: $3,000.00
  • 50+: $2,000.00
  • New Voice (started making art in the last three years): $2,000.00 
  • 3 Juror’s Choice Awards: $500 each

*Please note: Previous prize winners are ineligible to apply.

Prizes will be generously juried by Matilda Biscaldi (Gallery Manager of Praise Shadows Gallery), Julia Szejnblum (Director of Visual Arts of Boston Center for the Arts) and Sam Toabe (Gallery Director of University Hall Gallery in UMass Boston).

This exhibition aims to support and showcase the talent of emerging artists in the Greater Boston area, honoring the legacy of Fay Chandler. We thank her family for their generous support. 


About the Boston City Hall Galleries 

The Boston City Hall Galleries showcase contemporary emerging and mid-career local artists and art organizations. The galleries aim to nurture Boston’s local art scene by displaying a variety of mediums and perspectives that reflect the diversity present in our city. Our mission is to provide spaces that present memorable, ground-breaking, concept driven exhibitions that engage with local communities and start conversations on social issues while inspiring a sense of belonging within Boston City Hall.
We acknowledge that our galleries are built in the traditional homeland of the Massachusett people and the home of the neighboring Wampanoag and Nipmuc peoples. Along with the Mayor’s Office of Arts and Culture, we believe the arts play a crucial role in driving social change and creating a thriving, healthy community for all.  
 

About Fay Chandler
Fay Chandler, a mom of four, discovered a passion for painting in the 1960s while being in her early forties. After earning a Fine Arts degree from the Maryland Institute College of Art, she opened a gallery in Baltimore and became a prominent figure in Boston's art scene after returning to New England. In 1995, she founded The Art Connection, matching artists with non-profit organizations. A dedicated philanthropist, Chandler supported arts education for young people until her passing in 2015.

City of Boston Arts and Culture