Cultural Projects

About

Learn more about cultural projects and initiatives in the City of Worcester including public art efforts, film and media production, wayfinding and the street banner program. 

Public Art

Great cities deserve great art! The City of Worcester encourages and promotes the enrichment of the cultural landscape of the City through aesthetic improvements of public spaces, uniting artists and community and inspiring civic pride.

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Create 508

The Create 508 Program began as a collaboration of the City of Worcester Cultural Development Division, Division of Youth Opportunities and Worcester Cultural Coalition. This program employs Youth Leaders and Artist Mentors ages 14-24 in dynamic creative programming, enrichment workshops, training modules and public event planning work.

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"I Am Worcester" Photo Project

The I Am Worcester campaign showcases the everyday individuals who make Worcester the distinct, fun and dynamic city that it is. The full gallery and profiles on each participant was made public at 5:08 p.m. on May 8th in celebration of 508 Day!

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Film Production & Media

Worcester understands how important the creative industries are to the revitalization of cities. That is why we actively support the creation of new media and film in Worcester. The Cultural Development Office is happy to provide you with the assistance you need for your next project.

Services

• Site location identification - we offer red carpet tours to production staff, assisting you in identifying unique locations whether you are seeking edgy urban, lakeside views, historic neighborhoods or pastoral rural. Additionally we have more than ten colleges and universities which offer unique settings. Worcester has it all!
• Need a permit? We will walk you through the process to apply for street closures, police detail and any other necessary permitting.
• Pre- and post-production referrals for technical support and personnel.
• Referrals to the hospitality industry.
• Technical assistance in seeking talent.
• Contacts with the cultural, educational, hospitality and private sector industries.
• Contact us for specific site descriptions and we can send you photos.

External Partners

Massachusetts Film Office - Among many other services, the MFO assists filmmakers with location scouting, tax credit information, crew referrals, housing, permitting, government relations and union issues.

Street Banner Program

The City of Worcester owns thousands of light poles throughout the downtown and along primary commercial corridors. The Worcester Banner Program complements the City's Wayfinding Initiative and public art policies and builds on the vast diversity of destinations and attractions within the city. Not-for-profit organizations and institutions may apply to the City of Worcester for approval of a banner or banner system for the vicinity of the organization/institution or associated event, as long as it is within a commercial or institutional district.

Requests to participate in the City of Worcester's Banner Program must be submitted electronically to streetbanners@worcesterma.gov and should be made at least 45 days prior to anticipated installation of the banners. For more information and an application, please see our Banner Program Guidelines.

Wayfinding

The Worcester Wayfinding Project is intended to establish a unified vehicle and pedestrian information system that integrates wayfinding, storytelling and art throughout Worcester. The new system will create a unique sense of place for visitors and residents alike with components including signage, destination identifiers and information kiosks capable of guiding visitors to their destinations while giving a peek of Worcester’s rich cultural history. In addition, the Worcester wayfinding system will not only guide visitors but also share the stories and spirit of this community.

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