In 2020, there shall be light in the city whose motto is Lucem Diffundo- “I diffuse Light.”
~Steven Froias, March 2020 South Coast Insider
Although it feels like years ago now- we’re still feeling the optimism from our community event held the Black Whale just two weeks ago. Thank you to everyone who joined us and toasted one last time before we all began our preventative measures to protect ourselves from COVID-19. Being in the room with so many of our community leaders demonstrated incredible support and has encouraged us to move forward with many of our LIGHT:2020 programs set for this summer. Thank you for standing with us then, and we look forward to being with you again one day soon.
Planning for next year has shifted due to the global health crisis, but we remain committed to the community and feel it is our obligation to provide respite through artistic expression. This summer, three prominent downtown New Bedford buildings will be lit by internationally renowned MASARY Studios in large-scale digital animations that spotlight our maritime industry —still the heart of our region’s economy. And a reflective light room, visible from sidewalks and city streets, will be installed by Soo Sunny Park, whose media are light and space. This spectacular project will be able to be experienced both day and night by car, bicycle, or on foot. The animated murals will be viewed in the same ways after sunset for 6 weeks launching approximately by the end of June.
To provide a wide range of programs this summer season, we have collaborated with many organizations to prepare a robust line-up of free programs. Much is still to be determined, but for now we ask that you check in with our LIGHT program partners through their websites & social medias. We all need to stay connected one way or another.
3rd Eye Unlimited
AHA! (Art, History, Architecture)
Boys & Girls Club of NB
Bristol Community College
Co-Creative Center
The Drawing Room
Horacios Inc.
New Bedford Ballet
New Bedford Fishing Heritage Center
New Bedford Free Public Library
Rotch Jones Duff House Museum & Gardens
Superflat NB
UMass Dartmouth College for Visual & Performing Arts
Studio 3six0
New Bedford Science Cafe
Greater New Bedford Vocational Technical High School
Youth Opportunities Unlimited, Y.O.U.
City of New Bedford
Together, we will continue to build upon the city’s legacy of artistic excellence.
People are asking how they can help- Spread the word and tell people about what we’re doing. Help give us visibility by “Following” and “Liking” our social media pages such as our Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram. If you can give financially, awesome! You can contribute remotely through the donate button, send the office some snail mail, or call our office and speak to staff directly. We appreciate every dollar and use them wisely. Together, we can offer dynamic public art that is accessible to everyone. DATMA and this community will be so grateful for your support to ensure LIGHT 2020’s extraordinary projects become seen by the Southcoast Community and beyond.
Stay safe, but also stay positive.
Your friend & colleague,
Lindsay Miś
Executive Director