The City of Boston Is Looking for Artists

Finland Building/photo courtesy of City of Boston

The Boston Public Health Commission’s (BPHC) Finland Building is getting a makeover.

The City of Boston is actively seeking artists who want to create temporary public art for the Finland Building, which houses many of the BPHC’s substance abuse resources. According to an announcement, Mayor Marty Walsh is looking for a piece that “embodies the values of resiliency and hope, offering encouragement and support for those who utilize recovery services.”

In addition to aiding those in recovery, the artwork would help beautify the neighborhood that’s home to the stretch of Massachusetts Avenue known as “Methadone Mile,” as well as numerous addiction services, Boston Healthcare for the Homeless, and Boston Medical Center. The Finland Building is right in the heart of this area, at 774 Albany Street.

“The City is working hard to improve the neighborhood around Melnea Cass and Massachusetts Avenue, and we see public art as an integral part of this initiative,” Walsh adds in the release.

Artists would have a 70′ by 20′ wall at their disposal, as well as the wall perpendicular to the main space. The city has budgeted $8,000 for the project, and anyone with experience in public art, site responsive design, and project management is welcome to apply, here.

Applications are due by noon on May 9. The winner will be selected by a committee including individuals from the Mayor’s Office of Recovery Services, the BPHC, and local artists.