Worcester Asks Artists To Boost Spirits Amid Coronavirus

WORCESTER, MA — Worcester is hoping to boost community spirits with a new art project that would place encouraging signs in locations across the city.

The Worcester Cultural Coalition and the Greater Worcester Community Foundation are now accepting proposals from local artists for the "Give Me A Sign" project. By June, the city will select 19 winning designs that will be printed on 12 by 18-inch metal signs. The signs will bear slogans like "call your grandparents" and "tomalo con calma (take it easy)."

"The ‘Give Me A Sign’ project highlights the relationship between creative expression and mental health, which is especially relevant during COVID-19," Deputy Cultural Development Officer Che Anderson said in a news release. "Artistic and creative outlets contribute positively to our community’s well-being and have proven valuable in treating conditions such as depression, anxiety, and PTSD."

Worcester has been hit especially hard by the coronavirus outbreak. Central Massachusetts peaked later than other parts of the state, leading to a longer slowdown. As of Tuesday, the city had counted 3,556 total cases, plus 228 deaths at local hospitals.

Each winning design will receive a $1,000 award, according to the cultural coalition. Submissions are due by May 26.