Vote Medford 2007

Full Text: (Q8) Arts & Culture for Medford Revitalization

Cities across New England (Boston, Providence, Waltham, Lowell, Chelsea, etc.) consider the development of artist studios key components of their overall economic- and cultural-revitalization strategies. Medford still does not have an arts center and relative to other Massachusetts cities, Medford devotes little money to cultural undertakings. What role do you think local art and culture plays in Medford's revitalization efforts and what specifically will you do in this area?

Arena: (Q8) Arts & Culture for Medford Revitalization

Given the tight fiscal climate, it is unrealistic to suggest that we make further sacrifice to fund the introduction of even the most worthwhile cultural-revitalization. However, we have seen the economic impact a facility like the Chevalier Theater has had in our community and beyond. Since the city's contributions to this facility have been nominal at best, as a city councilor I will work with John Costas and the Chevalier Commission to promote and foster a cultural-friendly atmosphere in Medford and reach out to our banks and corporate entities in our borders to encourage private investment in this jewel on Forest Street.

Burke: (Q8) Arts & Culture for Medford Revitalization

At this point I would like to elaborate on one of the bullets of Question 5. I feel that artist studios will be a key component to Medford Square's revitalization. I offered a resolution to the master plan, after speaking with members of the artist community, to incorporate this element into the master plan. I feel strongly that this center should be in the center of our city in Medford Square. The importance of this location can and will contribute to the cities culture and history. Along with this, artist lofts are part of the re-use of the Kennedy Lincoln site in South Medford (question 6).

Camuso: (Q8) Arts & Culture for Medford Revitalization

We have many great opportunities to develop our artistic community. We have Springstep and Chevalier as possible anchor locations. I supported an earlier attempt to establish an art studio at the Swan School. We also should be talking with Tufts University on this matter. They could be a great help to our efforts. Art and cultural events make a significant contribution to the quality of life in a community. They also can be a powerful economic engine as well. I am encouraged by recent activities of our Arts Council and believe that we are seeing a growing demand for this type of investment. I will be a supportive leader for a community that blends the arts with the development of local business and educational opportunities.

Chamberlain: (Q8) Arts & Culture for Medford Revitalization

I believe that the art community of Medford is large and vibrant. I would encourage and promote entrepreneur arts. Were artists start there own business and projects that would benefit the city in diverse ways as well as the Medford square area in particularly.

Dello Russo: (Q8) Arts & Culture for Medford Revitalization

I want to see the arts continue to be a part of Medford. The arts express and enrich our human experience. They demonstrate our unity and diversity. Art and performing arts are essential to the rebirth of Medford Square and to the future of Medford. I supported an artist component the new development at the Kennedy/Lincoln School. I am working with the revitalization committee as we asses the renovation of the Condon Shell and have supported the ongoing improvements at the Chevalier Auditorium. I will continue to support these efforts. It would greatly benefit Medford if we could establish a mixed use area where artists could work and live.

Lungo: (Q8) Arts & Culture for Medford Revitalization

Local Art and Culture plays a huge role in the revitalization of Medford. The council has said it many times that a part of the revitalization of Medford Square should be an arts center, where local artists can go and use the studios for their own work and to teach others how important art is and what it can bring to ones life. Councillor Burke was the first to mention the idea and from day one I have agreed, an art studio should be in the center of Medford where all can enjoy and be part of.

Also, although Medford does not have an arts center, we cannot forget about Spring Step which is already in this city and plays a huge part in providing culture and art to the community. Everyday there is something going on at spring step. I always see such a diverse range of people of all ages going into spring step for a concert, yoga class, cultural night, etc.

I will continue to support spring step and the arts and hope that sooner than later an affordable location opens up in Medford for an arts center.

Maiocco: (Q8) Arts & Culture for Medford Revitalization

A component of the Lincoln-Kennedy development will include artists’ units. I have supported the Arts Council’s programs, voted funding for Chevalier Auditorium and believe an arts center should be located at Spring Step.

There should be an active promotion of arts and culture in any revitalization effort.

Marks: (Q8) Arts & Culture for Medford Revitalization

We do not have an arts center, that is true. When the Swan School building was up for sale, a Medford arts group approached me about turning the school into an arts center. I could not have been more happy. There was enough space and light in that building to make a fine arts center. I lobbied for this and did much work, but we lost the vote by one. I considered this an insult to the artists of Medford, who have never really had their own space. The building was not appropriated as an arts center because it was believed that it could be sold for much more. However, city officials in Medford overlooked the value that could have been gained by the intangible as well as the tangible benefits of having an arts center. Augmenting the profit gained from events at the center would be the public relations value of showcasing Medford as a place in which artists can learn and grow. However, that building, like so many others, is now a condo building.

Penta: (Q8) Arts & Culture for Medford Revitalization

Last year I offered a city council resolution with the council's support that was forwarded the Revitalization Committee to investigate as part of the Medford Square revitalization a building location along the downtown water way that would house Medford Historical artifacts and a arts and cultural center for future uses.