Mayor Marty Walsh’s ONEin3 Council, which pushes to incorporate the youth of Boston into the larger scope of the city, will be teaming up with Artists for Humanity to put on Art with Heart tonight. The Boston Redevelopment Authority (BRA), which supports the ONEin3 Council, is also hosting the event. Art with Heart will feature Boston’s young, up-and-coming artists as they put their skills and creativity to work redesigning the interior of former Trinity Church.
The night, as per a media release from the BRA, “is an effort to support Mayor Walsh’s vision of cultivating artists and creativity in Boston.” Art with Heart will showcase three artists from Artists for Humanity who will contribute to a mural of Boston on the walls of the church. Paintings, prints and sculpture, also contributed by artists from Artists for Humanity, will fill the sanctuary.
The BRA told BostInno that an event like Art with Heart had been suggested as early as last year and has gained steam as the ONEin3 Council has been given more attention. ”We’d love to see more events like this,” Colin Smith said.
Smith explained that part of the decision of choosing Trinity Church as a venue was the attraction of a repurposed church. “It’s very hip,” Smith said. “I think it will also draw a great crowd because it’s in such a convenient location.” Eventually, the former Trinity Church will be redeveloped for housing. However, the focus for now is the success of the night, highlighting local artists and galvanizing support both for ONEin3 and Artists for Humanity.
“The response has been great,” Smith said. “We’ve seen a lot of people already show their support.” Smith added that he isn’t sure if this support is new or has been building since the genesis of the project. “We hope to see the support in a big turnout.” Chloe Ryan, the Program Manager of the event from ONEin3, also shared that she has seen a wonderful response from other young professionals. “We have had more than a hundred people register on Eventbrite.”
Ryan explained at the heart of the event is a way for young professionals to connect with other young people, “surrounded by great art.”
Artists for Humanity is an exceptional program that supports young artists and offers “under-resourced youth…the keys to self-sufficiency through paid employment in the arts,” as stated on their site. Young artists are given the chance to hone their skills and are provided with a space for constructive criticism and collaboration. All of the money raised during Art with Heart will benefit Artists for Humanity.
The BRA has partnered with Artists for Humanity for their commitment to sustainability and building a stronger young community. Smith said that his personal experiences have driven his support for the organization.
Sponsors for the event include Whole Foods, Boston Beer Company, MS Walker and more. Art with Heart will run from 7-10 p.m. on 136 Shawmut Ave., South End. Although there is no fee, a $20 donation is suggested. Information and tickets can be found here.
