We Are Boston
In the first week of July 2026, Transported presented We Are Boston—a programme of immersive arts experiences that took place across the town.
Marking the 250th anniversary of American Independence, the programme explored Boston’s historic connections to the USA while launching community conversations around cultural plans for 2030 – the 400th anniversary of the founding of Boston, Massachusetts, by settlers from Boston, Lincolnshire.
Taking place across multiple locations, We Are Boston invited residents and visitors to explore the town’s past, present and future through creative projects that reflected its identity, creativity and communities.
A Moment to Reflect
July 2026 marked 250 years since the United States declared independence. In Boston, Lincolnshire, this anniversary provided an opportunity to reflect on shared histories and global connections, while focusing on the people, places and stories that shape the town today.
Across exhibitions, installations and experiences, the programme highlighted Boston’s evolving identity, rooted in heritage yet shaped by contemporary voices.
Looking towards 2030
As Boston approaches the 400th anniversary of the founding of Boston, Massachusetts, We Are Boston began an important conversation about the town’s future.
The programme invited communities to consider:
- What will Boston look like in 2030?
- How will we tell its story?
- And how can culture play a role in shaping a shared vision?
Through the programme, local communities were invited to take part in these conversations and help shape what comes next.
Experiencing the Town Differently
At its heart, We Are Boston was about pride, participation and possibility.
Through art and culture, residents and visitors were encouraged to experience place in new ways, seeing, hearing and feeling the town differently. Whether stepping inside a Luminarium, exploring exhibitions or following heritage trails, the programme encouraged new perspectives and shared experiences.
Programme Highlights
We Are Boston brought together immersive experiences, exhibitions, performances and community events across the town.
At the heart of the programme was Arborialis, the spectacular Luminarium by Architects of Air, which transformed Central Park into a world of colour, light and sensory exploration.
Visitors also experienced Our Voyage, Electric Egg’s animated film exploring the Mayflower story and its lasting impact; enjoyed outdoor performances from Rhubarb Theatre, Derwent Valley Drummers and Meet the Sheep; and discovered a wide range of exhibitions and installations at Shodfriars and Fydell House.
These included works by Rachel Carter, Steven Hatton, Bartosz Fedkowicz, Ruth Pigott and collaborators, alongside displays celebrating local heritage, craft, migration and community.
Together, these activities invited residents and visitors to explore Boston’s past, reflect on its present and imagine its future.
Explore Boston’s American Connections
Alongside the programme, visitors were invited to discover a trail of public artworks reflecting Boston’s links to America. These included:
- Horizon at Scotia Creek
- Pilgrim Women sculptures
- Etched in Time plaques
- Dolphin Lane mosaic
Visitors could also explore these stories in greater depth through Radical Routes. And you can still explore them now!
Part of a Wider Vision
We Are Boston formed part of Transported’s next phase of work, Mind the Gap, which aims to connect with new communities and build meaningful, long-term engagement across Boston.
It was a bold and engaging week of art, light and discovery—part of shaping Boston. There’s still time to tell us your thoughts via our Contact Us page
FUNDING
This programme was partly funded by Arts Council England in partnership with Transported and Architects of Air, with funding support from Boston Borough Council. The event was also funded in part thanks to Boston Preservation Trust (BPT) through their National Heritage Lottery grant, made possible by National Lottery players. Additional support from Future of the Past (SoundLincs), StoryTellers NPO and a Arts Council England project grant in partnership with the Boston Hanse Group.
Gallery
Take a look back at We Are Boston through the lens of Electric Egg. This gallery showcases highlights from across the programme, celebrating the artists, participants and communities who helped shape the project.
