Parking: There is both metered parking and parking garages and lots in the area.
Summary: 17 new works of art adorn the walls on Peabody St in the “punto” area of Salem, MA
Salem, MA, is a diverse community . And the “El Punto” (“The Point”) neighborhood is proof of this diversity. Comprised largely of Latinx and other new immigrants, El Punto is the sight of many art projects by the Punto Urban Art Museum (PUAM), a program of North Shore Community Development Coalition.
The Roots/Raices mural art project is meant to reflect on the layered histories of place and people. The aim of the project is to honor both the original inhabitants and the newer generations who have made Salem home.
The project, which is presented in partnership with Salem 400+, Salem Maritime National Historic Site, and the Peabody Essex Museum, unites arts, history, and community to honor Salem’s past while envisioning its future. Selected artists received a $1,000 stipend to create 8-by-8-foot mural works that will become part of PUAM’s semi-permanent outdoor collection. Artists were asked to share their stories and to seek out and bring together their different experiences and beliefs.
These murals are usually painted every year or few years. In fact, I photographed the last group of murals there which were part of a project called A Dream Called Home. The works of art do not have titles. But, most of the artists left their Instagram or other contact info in the artwork.
From the Old Salem Depot, the old Salem train that used to run through the center of the city, to the famous lighthouse (Fort Pickering Light) and the trolley which takes its passengers past all of the historical sites in Salem, some of the works of art pay tribute to parts of Salem and its history.
Location: Palmer Cove Park, 38 Leavitt St, Salem, MA (about 40 minutes northeast of Boston, MA)
Cost: Free
Universally Accessible: Yes
Dog Friendly: Yes
Parking: There is a small parking lot at the park for about 7 cars. There is also local on street parking and several parking lots and garages in the area.
Summary: 7 “faceless dolls” (Muñeca Sin Rostro) have been installed at Palmer Cove Park and Pioneer Terrace, Salem, MA. And, a special path has been installed to view the statues and reflect.
The Punto Urban Art Museum (PUAM) have found a way to mix art with an education. The seven 12 foot fiberglass statues were painted by a group of artists who used the statues for expression and storytelling.
The ceramic Muñeca Sin Rostro (“faceless dolls”) were originally created by Liliana Mera Lime in 1981. Liliana, a pottery worker in the town of Moca, a province in the Dominican Republic, wanted to depict a small figure of a woman. However, she lacked the tools and molds to make a small ceramic figure. This would prove to be a blessing in disguise. The doll was handcrafted by hand on a potter’s wheel with elements like ruffles, baskets and hats and one distinct feature, or lack of a feature. The dolls all had a head with no facial features. These full-sized dolls, which were originally smaller figurines, have been replicated with each artist’s interpretation and messages.
There are 7 statues at Palmer Cove Park. I did have a hard time finding the 7th one on my list. In fact, I had to make 2 visits to find them all. So, don’t forget to go to the area by the public garden to find them all!
Another special part of the park is a walkway that was installed earlier this year as a memorial to those lost from Covid-19.
Salem
The first Muñeca Sin Rostro is fittingly called “Salem.” Created by painter and sculptor Ramon Santiago, a native of the city of Moca, Espaillat province in the Dominican Republic, “Salem” is a representation of the city bearing the statue’s name. Ramon said his work of art is dedicated to the hardworking people of Salem. Examples of the hardworking people of Salem can be found not only in elements of people working at a job, in their yards and, most importantly, with their families. The various bold colors are meant to represent how diverse and vibrant the city is.
Los Ninos Y El Carnaval
“Los Ninos La Carnaval” represents children and their participation in the Dominican Republic’s carnival. The statue, made by Luis Rivera, a native of San Cristobal, displays the most representative costumes from different regions of the country: the Lechones of Santiago, the Ecol Devils of San Cristóbal, the Devils of La Vega, the Plátanus of Cotuí, and the Taimácaros of Puerto Plata, among others. The flowers represent the joy of the Dominican people. The flowers symbolize the diversity and racial mix that define us as a nation which is a fusion of Indigenous, African, and Spanish heritage. A graduate of the Universidad Autónoma de Santo Domingo and the Escuela de Diseño de Altos de Chavón, Luis has developed a versatile artistic style that spans sculpture, stained glass, jewelry, and carnival costumes. Luis is the co-creator of Urbelconica, a project that has helped reimagine the traditional Muñeca sin Rostro, beloved Dominican symbol of resilience and shared heritage, into large-scale public sculptures brought to life through the talent of many Dominican artists.
Oswald’s Ocean
“Oswald’s Ocean” was created, or at least conceived, by a 4 year old; Oswald. The artist, Yixuan Zeng, was captivated while reading Oswald’s design for the doll. Yixuan said the faceless doll designs reminded him of Chinese porcelain figures. Yixuan was inspired by Oswald’s passion for the color blue and sea life. He enjoyed making the sea creatures Oswald had described and envisioned the dress as being a dynamic sea scene beneath the waves.
Oswald said he is 4 years old and loves the color blue and sea life. Oswald did contribute beyond designing it. He added blue glitter to the hat.
MariposaCibaeña
Angela Gonzalez, a Dominican artist, wanted to highlight Las Hermanas Mirabal (more commonly known as the “Butterfly Sisters”), the sisters who fought for women’s rights. They were the only women who stood up to the last Dominican dictator. Angela chose to feature the Dominican flag as the main background design. She also added the national plants and, of course, a butterfly.
Angela said her doll represents the flavors, music and nature of the Dominican Republic, The bottom of the dress is made from plantain leaves which were used to make pasteles en hojas, a leaf-wrapped plantain pocket. You may have to look closely, particularly at the bottom of the statue, to see other objects that represent the Dominican Republic such as tropical plants such as coconut, bananas, sugar cane and eggplant. Musical instruments and other foods are also included.
Harmony
The artist for this statue, Vicky Ortega, said her doll was meant to serve as a celebration of those who represent the multiple cultures and as an homage to the strength of our multicultural community. The statue illustrates her own cultural blend by combining traditional Mexican dress embroidery with features of the American flag. Vicky wanted to express the strength of a new identity that draws from multiple traditions.
As a Mexican-American, Vicky often felt she didn’t belong in either culture. However, over time she learned to embrace both her heritage and nationality which helped shape who she is.
Lift Each Other Up
Created by Sheila Farren Billings, My Muñeca, “Lift Each Other Up”, is meant to express how language can either divide us or bring us together. Sheila says it is up to us to use language wisely and well. Sheila included quotes from remarks that neighbors made at a meeting about the project, with translations of course.
La Reyna De La Cosecha
The artists for this statue (Rigo Peralta and Melanio Guzman), said this sculpture honors the deep roots of agricultural labor as well as the cultural legacy of muñecas de tusa, traditional Honduran corn husk dolls. They said the corn husk dolls, which Melanio’s grandmother used to make and sell at Honduras flower festivals, is a reminder of the hard worker of the field laborers. It was fittingly located by the community garden.
Along the newly paved walkway, there is a memorial remembering the 140 Salem residents who lost their lives from Covid-19. The walkway is meant to give people a space to wander, reflect and enjoy the statues and park. It also gives people an easier and more accessible way to enjoy the park. It’s hard to imagine the park was just all grass without paths to allow people an easier access to move around. Benches give visitors a chance to sit and reflect while they enjoy the scenic views of Palmer Bay Cove.
Summary: There is a new multi-use art installation on the Rose Fitzgerald Kennedy Greenway
“Door knockers” or swings? That is what many people have been been asking themselves when they see the new art installation on the Rose Fitzgerald Kennedy Greenway.
The answer is both!
The artwork, “Big Hoops To Fill”, features two “door knocker” earrings made of steel, resin and fiberglass composite, epoxy paint and polyurethane.
But, this is not just a work of art. People use the “door knockers” as a swing. In fact, that was the highlight of the art. Many people, both young and older, enjoyed swinging on it. This dual function of the art has made it one of the most popular attractions on the Greenway.
According Ja’Hari Ortega, the Boston-based sculptor and jewelry-maker, the “door knockers”, which are cast from fiberglass with steel interior supports, are reminiscent of swings she used to swing on as a child.
The art is also a cultural statement. According to Ja’Hari, this work of art draws upon the cultural weight of bamboo hoop earrings which are considered an iconic style of jewelry worn by many women of color that originated from early hip-hop culture and fashion. Artists such as Salt-N-Pepa, MC Lyte, Roxanne Shanté, and Queen Latifah (they were definitely on my playlists or “mix tapes” when I was younger) have been known to include these types of ear rings in their fashion.
According to Ja’Hari, “Big Hoops to Fill” creates opportunities to “heal one’s inner child, cultivate and encourage healthy multigenerational relationships, and foster confidence in one’s identity and culture.”
“Big Hoops To Fill” is set to be on display along the Greenway Until October, 2026. So, stop by for a swing!
Location: Salem, MA (about 30 mins northeast of Boston, MA)
Summary: Artists from the Salem, MA, area showed off their talents at the 2025 Salem Arts Festival.
Welcome to part 2 of my blog post about the Salem Arts Festival!
One of the more interesting parts of the Salem Arts Fair was the art from local artists that were on display in the Old Town Hall. Yes, that town hall. The Old Town Hall in Salem, MA, is the very same building that was used in the filming of Hocus Pocus.
Yes, this very same building was the home to the works of dozens of artists in the Salem, MA area.
Everything from paintings and sculptures to photographs were on display during the festival. These are some of my favorites from the event!
After viewing the art in the Town Hall, I was surprised to see a group of acrobats setting up on the lawn of the visitor’s center! The acrobats entertained the crowd with gravity defying tricks!
During a break in the action, one of the performers picked a spectator from the crowd to challenge him to a contest. Although it was pretty obvious her “random choice” was not very random at all, it was still fun to watch, especially when she acted like she thought everyone was clapping for her and not him! It was very cute and entertaining! In fact, watching the spectators’ reactions were just as fun to watch as the young juggler was to watch.
What a way to end the festival! The Salem Arts Festival definitely didn’t disappoint, although I do wish the weather was nicer, particularly since it was in June! But, that’s New England for you!
Summary: Artists from all over the Salem (MA) area showed off their artistic abilities at the 17th annual Salem Arts Festival.
As summer is winding down, sadly, it’s true, I thought it was the perfect time to post photos from the annual Salem Arts Festival in June of this year! Ok, I should have posted them earlier. But, it’s been a busy summer! And I plan to show off more photos from my busy summer soon!
The 17th annual arts festival featured art and artists from all over the Salem, MA, area.
The theme for this year’s festival was Hissstory. As the sign below states, the hissstory project repurposed banners from previous events in the city. These repurposed parts were used to form a very long snake! Citizens of Salem were encouraged to create their segments of the snake which was displayed on Front St; the staging area for the performers. Recycling, or repurposing, at its finest.
The festival ran from June 6th to 8th. But, because of the rainy weather, I only attended on the 8th of June.
Since there was so much art and entertainment at the festival, I have decided to post this blog post in 2 parts. This post will include the popular “Mural Slam” as well as some of the dancers and musicians at the festival.
Without a doubt, the main event of the festival is the mural slam. Twelve artists painted uniquely creative works of art.
The murals weren’t finished until later in the day after I left. So, I stopped by the next weekend to photograph them when they were done. Plus it’s fun seeing how some of the murals evolved. At least it’s fun for me. Maybe I need to get out more.
Paige Doyle-Elwell
Howie Green
Colomba Klenner
Jess “Pickles” Clark
Max Pro
Daphne Powers
Bruce Orr
Naijah Nine
Caoin O’Durgy
Sarah Egan
Jennifer Wackerle
Bobbie Smith
There were additional murals and other works of art that were not part of the mural slam. The elephant was made by Polyvios Christoforos for the 2018 Salem, MA, mural slam. Bonus points if you can name all of the 4 buildings in the painting with the homes.
But, the art wasn’t just the murals and in the old town hall. There were also musicians and dancers. Matt Savage Groove Experiment kicked off the festivities on the second day of the festival. Matt is the keyboard player and composer for the band.
One of the more interesting and creative parts of the festival were the dancers. There were tap dancers.
But, the most interesting dancers were the interpretative dancers.
I hope you join me in part 2 of my blog post from this event which I will post soon!
Location: Kate Gould Park, Main St, Chatham, MA (1.5 hours southeast of Boston, MA)
Hours: Park is open sunrise to sunset
Cost: Free
Parking: there is metered parking as well as parking lots on Main St.
Dog Friendly: Yes
Cape Cod, or better known simply as the “Cape”, has been known for shark sightings. But, this is getting ridiculous.
But, it’s not just sharks that are in Kate Gould Park. A variety of artistically decorated whales are also in the park!
The “Art In The Park” event which began in 2013, displays dozens of whales and sharks (over 30 after I lost count). Each whale and shark has a unique design and many of the designs incorporate something relevant to the Cape Cod area such as beaches, lighthouses and traffic. Sailboat traffic that is.
But, some of the best artwork were the sharks and whales that were made of unusual materials or had creative designs.
One of my biggest pet peeves regarding photography is photographing people or other obstructions in my photos. But, this exhibit is so popular it was almost impossible to get photographs without people in them. But, I did my best.
Some of the sharks and whales had artwork on both sides of them. So, make sure to look at both sides of them if you do check them out!
Although it’s hard to pick a favorite, these were some more of my favorites.
As the saying for the event goes, “the art is in the park and the oars are in the stores.” Artists made works of art on oars as part of the artistic event. I didn’t have much time to see all of the oars associated with the event. But, I did see this one in a window of a realtor.
Although it may be a long drive (Chatham is located along the coast at the “elbow” of the Cape Cod region), it’s definitely worth the drive! But, don’t wait too long. The art in the park exhibit will only be around another week!
Location: 107 Boston St, Salem, MA (30 minutes northeast of Boston, MA, 1.5 hours southeast of Concord, MA)
Hours: Wednesday-Sunday, 11am-6pm.
Parking: Free, unmetered parking is available across the street from the museum on Boston St. Do not park in the parking lot behind the museum as this is reserved residency parking.
Summary: The Salem Cat Museum in Salem, MA, has a variety of works of art and activities involving all things cat for people of all ages to enjoy!
Cats and witches have always been connected to each other. So, it makes perfect sense that a new cat museum would open just steps away from the heart of Witch city.
The main feature of the Salem Cat Museum, which opened in November, 2024, is a gallery of artwork, all cat related of course.
The art gallery changes periodically (new pieces will be installed Aug 7). But, not all of the works of art changed. Some works of art are part of their permanent collection.
The gallery includes everything from portraits of cats to some more lighthearted works of art and even some bizarre pieces. And, some of the works of art include familiar Salem landmarks such as the Salem Witch Museum in the background of one of the pieces.
“Cheers” by Diane Teeter (Queens, NY)
Acrylic on paper
“Frolic” by Lauren Barbieri (Newburyport, MA)
India ink on paper
“Brunnhilde II” by Stacie Dolin (Peabody, MA)
Linocut print
Cat Vase by an unknown artist
Porcelain ceramic
“Attack of the 50 Foot Kitty” by Kameko Branchaud “Fu’una” (Providence, RI)
Acrylic on canvas
“Cat With Butterfly” by Jacqueline Sokol (Beverly, MA)
Acrylic on Canvas
“The Monarch Guides” by Diane Teeter (Queens, NY)
Acrylic on wood
“Ghost Kitty” by Kameko Branchaud “Fu’una” (Providence, RI)
Acrylic on canvas
“Dumpling!” by Emily Kwong (Beverly, MA)
Acrylic on canvas
“Salem’s Black Cat: My New Toy” by Wendy Snow Land (Salem, MA)
Acrylic on canvas board
This work of art did not have a sign with any information.
“Candy Cat Girlfriend” by Jane Tardo (New Orleans, LA)
Collage quilt
“Cat Temple” by Matthew Crumpton (Los Angeles, CA)
Arcylic on birch panel
“The Halloween King” by Wendy Snow Land (Salem, MA)
Colored pencil on paper
“Little Devil” by Wendy Snow Lang (Salem, MA)
Colored pencil on paper
“Rainbow Cats” by Elise Towle Snow (Salem, MA)
“Meows” by Michelle Dumas (Salem, MA)
Sequin art on upcycled image
“Secret Keepers (Lynx)” by Andrea Guzzetta (los Angeles, CA)
Oil on panel
“Surf Cats” by Zuly Palomino (Providence, RI)
Mixed media retablo collage
“Cat With Flowers” by Feliz Camille Tu (Brooklyn, NY)
Risograph print on paper
Rainbow Cats by J Morrison (Brooklyn, NY)
Screenprint on paper
“Ella” by Kameko Branchaud “Fu’una” (Providence, RI)
Acrylic on canvas
“Cat Cross” by J. Morrison (Brooklyn, NY)
Screenprint on paper
“Sunbeams” by Laura Casazza (Southbury, CT)
Print on paper
The museum also showcased some ceramics, trinkets (particularly Hello Kitty! merchandise) and other cat-related decor throughout the museum!
Located next to some of the art was a cat doll with some treats in it! Visitors were encouraged to take one home for their kitty. I know from personal experiences, cats do like to chase the springs and (sometimes) return them for you to throw over and over! I haven’t tried the corks before though.
And there are many more amazing works of art in the gallery part of the museum!
The museum has a reading area with comfy chairs to sit and peruse the books in the library.
There is also a mirror for visitors to write their names, the names of their cats or messages on. Drawings of cats, “hiss” and “meow meow” are just some of the things written on the mirror when I visited.
The museum also includes an activity area for visitors of all ages to make cat faces!
This is one of the “must see” Salem attractions off the beaten path to see while still avoiding the throngs of Halloween revelers which are sure to overwhelm Salem in the upcoming weeks, especially since Halloween season seems to be starting earlier and earlier each year there (more on this in a later post).
Location: Hampton Beach, 100 Ocean Blvd, Hampton, NH (1 hour northeast of Boston, MA, 1 hour southeast of Concord, NH)
Summary: 10 sand sculptors from all over the world competed in the 25th annual Hampton Beach Sand Sculpting Classic
Turtles, dream homes and mermaids were just a few of the meticulously crafted sand sculptures on display during the 2025 Hampton Beach Sand Sculpting Classic at Hampton Beach, New Hampshire.
But, before the artists begin working on their grand sculptures, they all work together to make the center stage sculptures based on the theme of the competition along with a few sculptures for the sponsors of the event. The theme of this year’s event was “Sand Safari.”
Regardless of the theme of the event, the sculptors are free to make sculptures of any theme they wish. And, each sculpture had an interesting story behind them. Some of the meanings and messages behind the sculptures are fairly straight forward, like the first sculpture posted below.
“Monkey Mind” by Andy Daily (Sarasota, Florida). When I first saw this sculpture I thought the face of the person was Fred Flintstone. Then, just some old guy. It’s actually someone much more well known. Apparently, I should watch the news more often.
“It Won’t Stay Forever” by Dmitry Klimenko (St. Petersburg, Russia) won third place in the competition.
“Resilience” by David Ducharme (British Columbia, Canada). Ducharme described its meaning as, “something that finds life in really a harsh environment” much like how seeds growing through pavement and how it mirrors how people can be strong during difficult times.
“Aligned” by Meliniege Beauregard (Captain Cook, Hawaii) won 1st place as well as the “People’s Choice Award” voted on by the visitors of the sand sculpting event and the “Governor’s Choice Award” voted on by Governor Kelly Ayotte.
Beauregard’s piece is about balance and being aligned your external and internal beauty and well being. She said it was about how when you’re centered and you can align your mental, emotional and physical elements so you can create beauty and be creative.
“Manitouk” by Carl Jara (Cleveland, Ohio)
Jara said “Manitouk” is an Ojibwe term loosely meaning “protector spirit.” According to Jara, this sculpture was a response to the big block of sand and how he saw something different in it than what he had initially planned.
“The Creation Of Mermaid” by Ilya Filimontsev (Moscow, Russia) won second place. Filimontsev said his sculpture was his playful take on the painting of the Creation of Adam by Michelangelo in the Sistine Chapel.
“Sing” by Karen Fralich (Ontario, Canada). Although this sculpture did not win an award or place in the competition, it was still a fan favorite. It was also one of the few sculptures that may have a better design on the back than the front. Fralich said “singing is important for everyone.” Even for non humans!
“To Touch The Stars” by Karlis Ile (Riga, Latvia) was a tribute to the artist’s son. This sculpture idea came from when he asked his son what he should make and his son answered a turtle.
“Dream Weaver” by Justin Gordon (Groveland, MA) is a reflection of the 25 years of the sculpting competition and all of the things he has learned during his 24 competitions. That’s right. He has competed in all but one of the sand sculpting classic competitions. Gordon said he combined things like open windows and scallops from his time in Kuwait as examples of things he has learned to sculpt over the years.
“VerTickle” by Abe Waterman (Prince Edward Island) won fourth place and, perhaps the most coveted award, the “Sculptor’s Choice Award.” Since the other sculptors know how difficult it is to make these sculptures, one could argue it is the most meaningful award. A play on “vertical”, the sculpture, in Gordon’s words, is “self explanatory.”
Like many people from New England, and, as I noticed from my interactions with people and the various license plates in the parking spaces, from all over the country, I look forward to this event every year. It is also the precursor to the official start of summer. And there may be no better way to kick off the season!
If you did miss the sculptures, don’t fret. They will be on display at Hampton Beach until Monday, June 23.
Summary: 17 spots (24 works of art) in downtown Boston (Downtown Crossing, Government Center and Rose Kennedy Greenway to be exact) with some fun and artistic exhibits
In it’s second year, the Winteractive exhibit in Boston, MA, featured a variety of creative and, in some cases, illuminated art displays.
The displays, which were scattered throughout the Downtown Crossing, Government Center and Rose Kennedy Greenway areas were created by a combination of American artists and our friends from the north in Canada.
The first exhibit at Winteractive was actually one of the six Mr. Pink inflatables.
Winthrop Center
Mr. Pink #1 (pvc, steel and cable)
Federal St
Located at Winthrop Center, Mr. Pink 1 was sneaking a peak into the Vermilion Club on Federal St. “Monsieur Rose” (Mr. Pink) is a considered a type of art called Mignonisme or Cuteism. Mignonisme is a form of art that embraces the aesthetics of cuteness in our physical and psychological environments. You will see a few more of Mr. Pink (6 in total) in this exhibition.
The Living Lantern
NEON Studio & Frankie Boyle
Shopper’s Plaza, Washington St
As you can see by the photos above, the Living Lantern offers a sense of light and hope. Visitors were encouraged to spend time and observe the lanterns change color, The changing colors were meant to express a deeper and longer lasting emotional relationship between people and their surroundings. The animated light colors infused the space with flowing colors. Video of the lantern can be viewed at the bottom of the post.
No, that’s not my car. For one, it has less miles on it. But, it does remind me of the debris one might encounter on our highways in New England.
This art installation called Alouette is meant to be a representation of the failed promise of a brighter future. It also could equally represent the ever-growing obsession with connectivity and the resulting accumulation of space waste. This exhibit was made in 2017 by Brandon Vickerd who hails from Hamilton, Ontario, Canada. Brandon likes to introduce anomalies into everyday life to show the failures of scientific positivism and the utopia of its boundless progress.
Sonic Runway
Rob Jensen and Warren Trezevant,
Government Center
The Sonic Runway was a light-art installation that converts audio signals into patterns of light that shoot down a 342 to 432 ft (105 to 132 meters) corridor of 20 to 25 LED lined arches at the speed of sound.
At the front of the Runway, the observers see musical sound waves rippling away from them. Walking down the corridor, sound and light are always in sync. Looking back from the far end, walkers can see the sound waves coming at them, and hear the music as the pattern reaches them.
Mr. Pink 2
Philippe Katerine
Historic Boston Inc, School St
Mr Pink was located on the roof top of Historic Boston, Inc. on School St.
Celestial Garden
Lucion
Dewey Square, Rose Kennedy Greenway
One of my favorite displays in the Winteractive exhibit, Celestial Garden features a group of circular shaped spheres that change colors with the largest sphere housing some interesting works of art.
Celestial Garden was described a sa unique artistic installation that illuminates the heart of Boston. Inside the 30 foot in diameter sphere, a fantastical garden comes to life, blending sky, land and sea. This immersive space is home to fantastic plants and creatures, created from cut-outs painted with fluorescent colors that light up under the black light as soon as night falls.
Nature’s Glow
Mike Geiger
Summer St Pedestrian Walkway
Nature’s Glow was described as a light installation that stood as a testament to the harmonious coexistence of the spiritual and natural worlds. The design symbolized the nurturing embrace of a forest spirit, manifested in the structural framing, which tenderly shelters a bed of foliage. The spirit’s serene, watchful presence connects us to the nurturing forces of nature, reminding us of our intrinsic bond with the environment. This installation encourages visitors to reflect on their own relationship with nature and the unseen forces that protect and surround it.
Slap Shot
LeMonde Studio
High St
Slap Shot was a human powered hockey stick and puck. There was a little crank you could turn that turned on the lights on the stick and puck. You might see the lights on the white tape of the stick. There were also lights on the puck!
The exhibit celebrated the NHL’s first-ever 4 Nations Face-Off coming that took place in February, when Montreal & Boston served as host cities to some the best hockey players in the world representing their home countries: the US, Canada, Sweden, and Finland.
Mr Pink 3
Philippe Katerina
Post Office Square
Mr Pink was also found in the trees at Post Office Square.
Mr Pink 4
Philippe Katerina
the alley next to Barry’s on Chauncy St
Cycle
Serge Maheu
Government Center
The next exhibit, Cycle, was located at Government Center. It was lit up and it did change colors.
Cycle is an interactive installation inspired by the revolutions of the sun and the moon, that illuminates open spaces.
Composed of a series of modules allowing various configurations, and equipped with several light animation sequences, Cycle delights with its variations in intensity and color. Diffusing brightness from its core, it evokes the halo effect of an eclipse.
In a maestria of light and sound, Cycle comes to life at the rhythm of bystanders’ interactions. By moving to the beat of the ambient music, the young and the young at heart transmit their energy to Cycle, transforming it into a larger-than-life musical sequencer.
Hockey Hijinks
Brandy Saturley
Boston Downtown Window Display
This display combined Canada hockey and art history. Some of the art, such as the woman with the man in the Montreal Canadiens jersey are callbacks to real art (in this case American Gothic).
A Winter Messenger
Breehan James
Boston Downtown Mural
In folklore, white deer are said to bring luck and good fortune. In some cultures, they are associated with enlightenment, healing and personal growth. They are said to inspire us to seek wisdom, seek wisdom and embrace change while finding meaning and beauty in our connection to the natural world.
Nature’s Solace
Mike Geiger
New England Sea Aquarium
Nature’s Solace is a light installation that symbolizes the balance between the spirit and nature. This design captures the essence of multiple forest guardians, whose presence is echoed in the structure that gently houses a lush canopy of greenery. The guardians’ calm and protective aura serves as a reminder of our deep connection to the earth and its caretakers.
Mr. Pink 5
Philippe Katerina
Hyatt Regency Boston
This Mr. Pink could be found pointing at passerbys.
Polar Bear Passages
Brandy Saturley
Polar Bears (Ursus maritimus) are magical creatures, loved by many. These white beauties often stir deep emotions in humans, especially now as their habitats are disappearing due to global warming. The Polar Bear is seen as a guiding spirit when facing dramatic life transitions, especially at the onset of a new path or major change in life. Capturing the playful and inquisitive creature as he searches for a new home.
Mr Pink 6
Philippe Katerine
29 Winter St
This high flying Mr Pink attracted large crowds!
It has only been a little over a month since Winteractive 2025 ended and they’re already planning for Winteractive 2026 on their website! And I plan on being there!
Please see below for some videos from the event!
I have been continuing my review of books by authors from New England or about New England. The latest book I re-read was Following Atticus by Tom Ryan (304 pages).
Without revealing too many spoilers, the book is an inspiring story of a man and his love of hiking and, more specifically, his love of hiking with his dog, Atticus. What a pleasure it was to re-read this gem! In fact, I feel like re-reading it again! The story isn’t just about a man and his dog, though (although it is the main plot). There are also stories of the challenges he faced with his family and other people in his community. You don’t have to love or even like hiking or dogs (however weird that seems) to enjoy this book. Although, it may help if you do.
You can read my full review (with spoilers) at my good read profile below.
Summary: 16 art exhibits are located throughout downtown Boston.
While this winter weather may have been a difficult one for many of us, there was a bright spot in the downtown Boston area. The walkable art exhibit known as Winteractive brought some color and fun to what can be a dreary and frigid Boston winter.
The exhibits, which were inspired by the winter art festivals in Quebec, Canada, are located throughout the downtown Boston area. However, they are mainly located near Downtown Crossing train station, City Hall Plaza and High Street as well as Summer St. near the South Station train station. You can view the locations on this map. While it is possible to walk to all of the exhibits, it may be a good idea to use public transportation or rideshare services to view some of the exhibits off the beaten path.
As you will see, some of the exhibits are interactive. Whenever possible, I got some friendly people to help use the interactive devices for filming. I am listing these exhibits in the order of their locations. Eleven exhibits are are located in or near the Downtown Crossing area. Two more are located in or near City Hall Plaza and the last 2 are located in the Financial District on or near Summer St. Consult the map on the attached link above if you plan on visiting these exhibits.
Echoes: A Voice From Unchartered Waters
1 Franklin St
Mathias Gmachl (United Kingdom)
Steel structure on base
As you emerge from the Downtown Crossing train station, the first exhibit you will see ifs Echoes: A Voice From Unchartered Waters. This exhibit in the shape of a whale is meant to ask us to consider our everyday activities on nature and the environment and to make us be more aware of its fragility. The exhibit not only lights up. It also makes sounds that you can only hear if you’re very close to it.
The artist Mathias Gmachl said he wanted to create a space for people to discuss the future of our planet.
The next 5 works of art were all completed by the same artist; Mark Jenkins. These are all listed below. Mark uses common household or personal items such as tape, wigs, fabrics, fishing rods (yes fishing rods) and rope among other items in his work. Although there is not ,more information available for all of these exhibits, I have included some info when I can find it. Since some of the exhibits relied on their lighting to add to their artistic value, I only went either at night or just before night time. I did like how the sunset or pre sunset light reflected on some of the installations.
Fisherman (Untitled #1)
Summer St at Chauncy St
It is not fish, but love, this person is trying to catch. Good luck, there!
The Swing (Untitled # 2)
Winter St at Tremont St
Woman Suspended (Untitled #3)
Temple Pl
*this exhibit is temporarily unavailable
Stairwalker (Untitled # 4)
31 Bromfield St
Clothesline (Untitled #5)
9 West St (the site of the outdoor lot at Brattle Book Shop)
Blissful Rendezvous
Summer Street Pedestrian Plaza
Kezna Dalz
Vinyl digital print
This exhibit was meant to show the commonalities between the Boston and Quebec provinces by including the flora and fauna of both locations and using Boston as its backdrop. You may notice some of the more notable landmarks and things common in Massachusetts and New England such as lobsters, deer and colorful flowers.
There are also 5 “play feature” exhibits made by LeMonde Studio. They make sounds, light up or do some other fun things based on user interaction.
Light Lane Bikes
Summer Street Pedestrian Plaza
I tried to get someone to ride these bikes so I could display the way the lights change but I had no takers. The colored lines on the bikes light up and moved as people pedal. That’s it!
Guitar Slide
City Hall Plaza
As the name suggests, there is a slide on the neck of this guitar
Music Box
High Street Place Entrance
Photo Frame
Summer Street Pedestrian Plaza
I was able to persuade someone to crank the lever on the device next to the frame and light up this picture frame!
Bird House
Hyatt Regency, One Avenue De Lafayette
This is another interactive exhibit. You simply crank the lever on the box and the bird makes some interesting sounds!
“End Game” (Nagg & Nell)
Max Streicher
Recycled vinyl signs, fans, steel cable
This was certainly my, and many other people’s, favorite exhibit. There were always a group of people stopping by to photograph it whenever I passed by the area. However, the back story of the characters in this exhibit is pretty grim. The inflatable heads are based on characters in the play by Irish novelist Samuel Beckett; End Game. In this play, the characters Nell and Nagg are forced to live out their lives in a dumpster after losing their legs. Yikes.
The mythical unicorn stands behind a frosted glass display. This was a tricky photo to take. I wanted to photograph it at night to show off the light in the display. Yet, the display did tend to reflect the glare from the street lights and lights from the storefronts. In retrospect, I should have photographed it from the other side.
Island Of Warmth
125 Summer St
ATOMIC3
Steel and light elements
Two hundred and twenty bulbs light up intermittently on this visual, musical and luminous display. The Island of Warmth is a tribute to Montreal’s festive tradition. But, despite the name, it’s not going to keep you warm. So, don’t try to warm up by it!
Territories 2.0
175 Federal St
Olivier Roberge
Steel, polycarbonate, paint, miniature models, LED lighting
Described as a “true narrative microcosm”, this walk in exhibit is a diorama which depicts a natural environment that has been abundantly transformed by human intervention and climate change.
Although it’s more like Springactive at this point, this exhibit is a must see if you’re in the Boston area! But, don’t wait. The displays will only be up until April 15!
New England Nomad 