The following announcement was provided by the Watertown Public Arts and Culture Committee:

The Watertown Public Arts and Culture Committee (PACC) is excited to announce the three finalists selected to design a mural commemorating Arshile Gorky, a renowned Armenian-American artist who played a pivotal role in the development of Abstract Expressionism.

The finalists are:

• Tina Chakarian with Nicole Burmeister and Studio Fresh: a collaborative team bringing together a seasoned artist and curator, a talented illustrator, and a contemporary design studio.
• Brandon Marshall: a U.S. Cultural Ambassador and public artist specializing in murals that engage diverse communities and a focus on historical and cultural elements.
• Kacy Jackson: a muralist with a strong background in graphic design and a passion for creating inspirational educational experiences.

These artists were chosen from a pool of talented applicants based on their artistic abilities, experience, and alignment with the project’s goals. The finalists will now be tasked with developing mural proposals that capture the spirit and legacy of Arshile Gorky and resonate with the Watertown community.

The mural will be located along the Watertown-Cambridge Greenway and will serve as a lasting tribute to Gorky’s time in Watertown and his significant contributions to the world of art. The project is supported by contributions from various organizations and individuals, including the Watertown Community Foundation, Mount Auburn Cemetery, the Watertown Cultural Council, and the Massachusetts Cultural Council. The selected artist will receive a $25,000 commission to complete the mural, which is expected to be unveiled in 2025.

Community Meeting

The public is invited to attend a community meeting on Monday, November 18th from 6-7:30 p.m. in the 3rd Floor Conference Room at City Hall (149 Main St.) where the finalists will present their proposals, and you may provide feedback for final mural selection.

About Arshile Gorky

Arshile Gorky was an Armenian-American artist who arrived in Watertown in 1920 after fleeing the Armenian genocide. He lived in the East End of Watertown until 1925, where he worked at the Hood Rubber factory and pursued his artistic passion. Gorky’s work had a profound impact on the development of Abstract Expressionism and continues to inspire artists today.

For more information, please contact:

Liz Helfer, Public Arts & Culture Planner
Community Development & Planning
149 Main Street, Watertown, MA 02472
617-972-6417 x12167
Office Hours: 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Monday-Thursday