Amherst Public Art Projects: Electrify & Gallery Shows

The Amherst Public Art Commission is offering two distinct opportunities for artists to showcase their work and contribute to the community's cultural landscape. The first initiative, Electrify Amherst, launched in 2018 as part of enhancing the Amherst Center Cultural District. This fall, three artists will be selected to paint designated utility boxes throughout the town, transforming functional infrastructure into vibrant public art. Selected artists receive a $500 stipend plus all necessary painting supplies. The second opportunity involves the Town Hall Art Gallery, which features bi-monthly rotating exhibits for local artists. The gallery, established by the Amherst Public Art Commission in 1990, is located on both floors of Town Hall and can display up to 18 artistic works. The space accommodates various media including paintings, drawings, photographs, multimedia compositions, and fabric works. The gallery is accessible to the public Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., excluding holidays. Each exhibiting artist is honored with a public reception, providing valuable networking opportunities and community engagement. The Commission's mission focuses on promoting community awareness of public art while enhancing cultural diversity and quality of life for Amherst residents. Both programs offer artists the chance to display their work in high-visibility public spaces and connect with the local community.

How to Apply

1. Step 1: Visit amherstma.gov/call-for-artists to review detailed submission requirements

2. Step 2: Prepare portfolio materials suitable for either utility box painting or gallery exhibition

3. Step 3: Submit application through the official website portal

Application & Contact

Application URL: amherstma.gov/call-for-artists

Source: https://www.wwlp.com/news/local-news/hampshire-county/amherst-seeks-artists-for-two-public-art-projects/