Fall River Arts & Culture Coalition announces event to unveil large-scale public mural

Fall River, MA — The Fall River Arts & Culture Coalition invites the public, community partners, donors, elected officials, and members of the media to celebrate the official unveiling of Tide Portal, a new large-scale public mural diptych by artist Lena McCarthy, on Wednesday, August 19th, from 7:00–8:00 PM at the Davol Street overpass across from The Cove Restaurant (392 Davol Street, Fall River).

Guests will enjoy live music by the Buttonwood Brass Band, light refreshments, remarks from project partners and community leaders, and a Q&A with the artist.

Tide Portal is a hand painted mural located at the Davol street underpass in Fall River’s waterfront district. Drawing inspiration from the tunnel architecture of the underpass, and its location to the water—Tide Portal speaks of the natural tide rhythms and the many journeys that shape a place like Fall River. McCarthy canonizes migratory birds such as Arctic Terns and marine life- Marlins and whales along with flowing pieces of thread which are subtle references to the city’s textile heritage. The mural invites viewers to reflect on movement, belonging, and the beauty found in moments of transition as embodied in the space of the overpass.

“Tide Portal is about cycles of change and the connections that bind us together,” said artist Lena McCarthy. “The tides, guided by the moon, remind us that change is constant. The migratory species represent both the natural world and Fall River’s history as a city of immigration, while the thread symbolizes textile heritage and the invisible connections between past, present, and future. Even the small hydrangea tucked into the composition offers a quiet nod to the Azores and the many families whose stories are woven into this community.”

“This project demonstrates how public art can serve multiple purposes. This mural defines a pedestrian area in a fast traffic zone. This creates safer conditions for pedestrians, as well as enlivening an otherwise underutilized space. The greatest benefit of all is to offer art to everyone,” said Tracy Silva Barbosa, Executive Director of the Fall River Arts & Culture Coalition. “Tide Portal is a testament to the power of perseverance. Despite years of delays and challenges, we remained committed to seeing this vision through. Public art has the power to transform ordinary places into meaningful spaces that inspire pride, spark conversation, and strengthen community. This mural is a lasting investment in Fall River and a celebration of the vital role of arts and culture in our city.” 

“Public Art is for everyone,” said Michelle Borges, Executive Assistant and Programs Manager at FRACC. “No invitation needed. Whether you’re walking, driving by, or visiting Fall River for the first time, this mural belongs to you. Now an internationally recognized artist, it’s meaningful to welcome Lena back to her home state. Her powerhouse leadership on this project is particularly significant in an art form that has historically been male-dominated. We hope FRACC Murals create connections and positive experiences throughout Fall River.” 

The evening’s program will include:

• Welcome gathering w/ live music by the Buttonwood Brass Band and light refreshments
• Opening remarks from FRACC Executive Director Tracy Silva Barbosa
• Recognition of project partners, including artist Lena McCarthy and assistant, Bloomberg Philanthropies’ Asphalt Art Initiative, Sunrise Erectors, the Massachusetts Department of Transportation, the City of Fall River
• Artist remarks Q&A on the mural’s inspiration and creative process
• Reflections from community leaders on the impact of public art
• Photographs, networking, and media interviews

Eventbrite
eventbrite.com/e/fracc-murals-tide-portal-unveiling-tickets-1995245093786

Tide Portal was made possible through support from the City of Fall River and Bloomberg Philanthropies’ Asphalt Art Initiative, a program that helps cities use art to create safer, more vibrant public spaces. 

Additional support was generously provided by Sherwin-Williams of Fall River, BayCoast Bank, The Fall River Redevelopment Authority, Sunrise Erectors, and private donors through Mightycause: mtyc.co/qw6v9f