COVID-19 WARNING: While we continue to list New Bedford's array of cultural offerings, readers are advised to heed the latest public health recommendations. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention now recommends that both unvaccinated and fully vaccinated people wear masks indoors in public in areas of substantial or high transmission, including Bristol County.
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SHELTER 2023: Our Woven Story by Maxwell Emcays
June 22 - October 23
As the winner of DATMA’s first national Request for Qualifications, mixed media multidisciplinary artist Maxwell Emcays will present Our Woven Story. The sculpture is inspired by the visual forms of the African Baobab tree and Wampanoag Wetu structures. Using locally upcycled clothing as a primary material, textiles will embed New Bedford’s community’s identity, economy, and social fabric into the artwork. Emcays focuses explicitly on the textile industry and the new immigrants, which once made the city the wealthiest in the world. While today’s immigrants are not part of that, the stories remain similar with groups from nations like the Azores Islands, Cabo Verde, Salvador, Dominican Republic, Mexico, Honduras, Guatemala, and others seeking shelter in new communities. The final lit piece will represent the city’s community and culture and foster creativity, conversation, and connection among people.
Our Woven Story will be on display free and open to the public at the intersection of Route 18 and Union Street in New Bedford. The artwork is intended for visitors to walk through the three entrances, explore, and use the space underneath for small gatherings or pop-ups.
