The sprawling 134 acre site of the former Medfield State Hospital sits on a hilltop overlooking the banks of the Charles River and boasts over 35 historic buildings. Acquired by the Town of Medfield in 2014, the site is a unique and exciting terrain for creative reuse and renovation.
Now, MAPC is working with the Town to develop and execute a series of creative placemaking events to show that the site can generate a regional audience for artistic activities. The strategy will highlight the church, which is slated to become the centerpiece of a future performing arts center.
The project will launch with an event at the Lee Chapel at the Medfield State Hospital (45 Hospital Road) on Saturday, June 15, from 1:30 to 4 p.m.
Organized by the Cultural Alliance of Medfield (CAM) in partnership with MAPC and the Town, the afternoon event is a way to bring community members together to enjoy the property, and see the potential for future arts and cultural activities on the picturesque grounds.
Guests can play lawn games, engage in a community art project, and participate in hands-on papermaking with local artist May Babcock beginning at 1:30 p.m., and catch Dad’s Brass Band from 2 to 4 p.m. Ruby’s Ice Cream Truck will be on hand to sell treats.
Learn more on the Facebook event page.
Attendees are encouraged to bring a lawn chair or blanket. In the event of rain, music and activities will take place inside the Lee Chapel.
MAPC, the Town of Medfield, the Cultural Alliance of Medfield, and an advisory committee composed of local residents and artists will hold more events through May 2020, highlighting artists of all mediums and positioning the space as a center of arts and culture.
