As published in Hyperallergic on September 10, 2024
Massachusetts Design Art & Technology Institute (DATMA), the non-collecting contemporary art institute based in New Bedford, Massachusetts, is pleased to announce it has been approved by the National Endowment for the Arts (NEA) for a Challenge America Award of $10,000 — the first to receive this recognition in the city. This grant will support the commission of a new interactive public art piece entitled “Mood-vironment” by artist and architect Mona Ghandi (Morphogenesis Lab), scheduled to debut September 9. “Mood-vironment” offers a new form of public art where technology, art, and people of all backgrounds, ages, and socioeconomic statuses can interact to reconceptualize a collective identity.
“The NEA is delighted to announce this grant to DATMA, which is helping contribute to the strength and well-being of the arts sector and local community,” said NEA Chair Maria Rosario Jackson, PhD. “We are pleased to be able to support New Bedford and help create an environment where all people have the opportunity to live artful lives.”
Mona Ghandi’s “Mood-vironment” is an interactive installation that provides a dynamic immersive atmosphere through its color-changing effect. It aims to emphasize the role of emotions as a fundamental part of the collective identity, especially at a time when our urban environments are suffering from a lack of emotional expressions. The artwork positions user presence and expression at the very center of its socially responsive space, relying on viewer participation and emotions to complete the artwork. The sculpture, crafted from wood, fabric, and interactive lighting systems, will span 20 feet in width, 20 feet in length, and 11 feet in height. Set to be installed at the intersection of Route 18 and Union Street in Downtown New Bedford, it will draw waterfront visitors while transforming the local environment for residents.
For more information, please visit datma.org.