Bringing arts opportunities to the City every day of the week

April is an exciting month in the City of Boston. Not only does it mean that warmer weather is in sight, but it also kicks off a season full of outdoor arts and culture events that bring together people from all over the City. The application deadline for Celebrity Series of Boston’s Jazz Along the Charles event later this fall is on April 16th, and East Boston will lead this year’s series of Open Studios with their weekend event from April 21-22. Then, one of the most jam-packed weeks for arts events in Boston begins—Artweek 2018.

Artweek, hosted by the Boch Center, entered its fifth year with a substantial change, by expanding its offerings statewide. The festival, which will run from April 27 - May 6, 2018, will feature a wide array of arts experiences that are hands on, interactive, or offer a behind-the-scenes look at an artist’s process. More than 90% of the experiences offered are under $25, and more than 60% of them are free to the public. The Mayor’s Office of Arts and Culture is thrilled to serve as an Artweek partner this year, and we have some great events happening that week that we’d love to have the public participate in. 

One of the events we’re very excited about is happening on May 5 from 12-4pm at the new Boston AIR artist space in Upham’s Corner (786 Dudley Street). This year’s cohort of Boston artists-in-residence will explore ways artists and other community members can influence policy, envision and initiate tangible change in our communities. Attendees will have an opportunity to get involved and share their thoughts regarding local community issues and City policies.

Another great event that we encourage everyone to check out is Mass L.E.A.P.’s Louder Than a Bomb MA Youth Poetry Slam Showcase at the Strand Theatre on April 28 from 7-9:30 p.m. This is an evening of powerful spoken word poetry performances from teens throughout the Commonwealth, as they crown a state championship team, showcase brilliant young writers and honor award winners. Audience members may even be called upon to serve as a judge for the team championship. 

One final happening during Artweek that we’d like to highlight is that City Hall will be displaying over 400 pieces of artwork created by Boston Public Schools students starting on May 1. 42 teachers will be on board to install the visions and expressions of these talented young artists on floors 1, 2, 6, 7 and 8, and the show will be up through the end of May.  

We’re delighted to be taking part in Artweek in various ways this year, because it aligns so well with the Boston Creates cultural plan’s goal of integrating arts and culture into all aspects of civic life, and inspiring all Bostonians to value, practice, and reap the benefits of creativity in their individual lives and in their communities. We hope that you make it out to a few Artweek events this month, and we look forward to seeing how this great lineup of events brings together communities, sparks conversation, and encourages creativity.