The Charles River Conservancy (CRC) invites artists to apply for our 2026 Graffiti/Street Artistin-Residence program at the Lynch Family Skatepark. This summer-long residency offers an opportunity for a local artist to serve as both an ambassador of the skatepark and a representative of its vibrant culture from May 2026 - September 2026. The program aims to curate a sense of belonging and highlight and uplift voices that have been traditionally underrepresented in public spaces, including BIPOC, queer, women, transgender, non-binary, and/or disabled artists.
The program is designed to strengthen the physical and social infrastructure of the park by centering the needs of users where skaters and artists of all backgrounds feel welcome and safe in their shared practices.
The Artist-in-Residence will spend the summer creating site-specific artworks in designated areas of the skatepark during open park hours. The schedule will be determined collaboratively with the CRC, offering flexibility for non-traditional hours to accommodate the artist’s creative process. Beyond their own work, the artist will act as a leader and advocate within the skatepark community, fostering connections among skaters and artists alike. The Artist-in-Residence will welcome the community to freely graffiti alongside them, creating an ever-evolving, collaborative space. Work may be painted over, reflecting the ephemeral nature of graffiti and street art; however, the Artist-in-Residence will remain active and continuously add to the evolving space. The Artist-in-Residence will provide support and encouragement to other graffiti and street artists, contributing to a creative and inclusive atmosphere at the park.