Somerville’s annual Art Beat festival is back; albeit in a smaller form than its traditional model (due to Covid regulations). For this reason, Somerville Arts Council is not doing a large-scale call for bands, crafts or dance. Instead, we are looking for smaller happenings, roaming performers and installations — activity that will not draw large crowds. With that said, please read on!
It’s been a long, rough year, yet things are getting better and we’re all emerging from hibernation. By summer, we expect things to pop—artistic activity, street life, and optimism! We’re looking forward to business bustle, backyard barbecues, and popping in to visit friends and neighbors. Let’s celebrate all good things popping up—ideas, cultural trends, celebrations, flowers and new life.
At this year’s ArtBeat Festival, expect pop-up performances, pop music (among other genres!), some eye-popping dance, a healthy dose of pop art, and just about anything else that might pop up.
The Somerville Arts Council is seeking art installations, activities, and performances that will fit this year’s festival theme. Given this year’s smaller-scale format, we welcome installations and roaming performances that don’t require large crowds or long-term participation.
Some examples of appropriate proposals (with linked examples from previous ArtBeats!) include:
Roaming performers/buskers (Migratory Movements Parade)
Pop-up/mobile dancing and music (Honk!)
Walk-up public art installations or art-making activities (BLM Floral Installation, Upcycle Fence)
Proposals should include:
Artist name and contact info (phone number and email address).
Title and description of proposed piece/performance/activity (Please include any technical or logistical information that may be relevant to your submission, i.e., for installations please provide dimensions and weight of your piece).
If applicable, please describe how your work relates to the ArtBeat theme of “Pop” and include any related images, website info, and/or videos to give us a better understanding of your work.
Please submit proposals to natalie.gearin@gmail.com, and include “ArtBeat 2021 Proposal” in the subject line. Submission deadline is Friday, May 21, 2021.