This event is part of our We Are Boston programme of immersive arts experiences across the town marking Boston’s historic connections to the USA on the 250th anniversary weekend of American Independence and launching community consultations on cultural plans for 2030 – the 400th anniversary of the foundation of Boston in America by people from Boston, Lincolnshire.
This event is part of our We Are Boston programme of immersive arts experiences across the town marking Boston’s historic connections to the USA on the 250th anniversary weekend of American Independence and launching community consultations on cultural plans for 2030 – the 400th anniversary of the foundation of Boston in America by people from Boston, Lincolnshire.
This event is part of our We Are Boston programme of immersive arts experiences across the town marking Boston’s historic connections to the USA on the 250th anniversary weekend of American Independence and launching community consultations on cultural plans for 2030 – the 400th anniversary of the foundation of Boston in America by people from Boston, Lincolnshire.
This event is part of our We Are Boston programme of immersive arts experiences across the town marking Boston’s historic connections to the USA on the 250th anniversary weekend of American Independence and launching community consultations on cultural plans for 2030 – the 400th anniversary of the foundation of Boston in America by people from Boston, Lincolnshire.
This event is part of our We Are Boston programme of immersive arts experiences across the town marking Boston’s historic connections to the USA on the 250th anniversary weekend of American Independence and launching community consultations on cultural plans for 2030 – the 400th anniversary of the foundation of Boston in America by people from Boston, Lincolnshire.
Marking the 250th anniversary of American Independence, the programme explores 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 invites residents and visitors to explore the town’s past, present and future through creative projects that reflect its identity, creativity and communities.
A Moment to Reflect
July 2026 marks 250 years since the United States declared independence. In Boston, Lincolnshire, this anniversary provides 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 highlights Boston’s evolving identity—rooted in heritage yet shaped by contemporary voices.
Looking Ahead to 2030
As Boston approaches the 400th anniversary of the founding of Boston, Massachusetts, We Are Boston begins an important conversation about the town’s future.
What does Boston look like in 2030?
How do we tell its story?
And how can culture play a role in shaping a shared vision?
Through this programme, local communities are invited to take part in this conversation and help shape what comes next.
Experience the Town Differently
At its heart, We Are Boston is about pride, participation and possibility.
Through art and culture, we can 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 encourages new perspectives and shared experiences.
Explore Boston’s American Connections
Alongside the programme, visitors can discover a trail of public artworks that reflect Boston’s links to America. These include:
- Horizon at Scotia Creek
- Pilgrim Women sculptures
- Etched in Time plaques
- Dolphin Lane mosaic
You can also explore these stories in more depth through Radical Routes.
Part of a Wider Vision
We Are Boston forms 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.
Join us for a bold and engaging week of art, light and discovery—and be part of shaping Boston. Tell us your thoughts via our Contact Us page
FUNDING
This programme is partly funded by Arts Council England in partnership with Transported and Architects of Air, with funding support from Boston Borough Council. The event is 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.
While rooted in Baltic traditions, the programme has been shaped by the people taking part—creating space for a wider, transnational exchange of ideas, stories, and making. Participants have brought their own references and influences into the sessions, building a shared creative experience that reflects a broad and evolving cultural landscape.
At the heart of the programme is a focus on flower motifs, which carry deep meaning across many folk traditions. From the Lithuanian rūta symbol to decorative traditions found across Poland and Ukraine, floral patterns are linked to ideas of protection, harmony, and the cycles of life. These themes resonate locally too, drawing connections with British folk traditions, historic textiles, and the natural environment around Boston.
Workshops took place at Shodfriars Hall, led by artists Madara Vimba (embroidery), Kristina Skei (straw garden making), and Dovile Sakalauskaite (wool felting). Each artist delivered sessions designed to build skills over time, giving participants the chance to experiment, develop their own ideas, and create finished pieces.
The programme looks ahead to its next stage at Fydell House, where the building’s historic textile collection and surroundings will provide inspiration for future activity and exhibition—bringing together contemporary making with local heritage.
The programme culminates in a public exhibition, celebrating the work created and the diversity of materials, traditions and creative voices involved.
Partners & Funding
Funding for this project has been contributed by Boston Preservation Trust (BPT) through their Heritage Lottery grant. The Boston Preservation Trust works to improve and protect the architectural heritage of Boston and the surrounding area, with Fydell House at the heart of their work as a valued community space for events, exhibitions, and local activity.
Using money raised by National Lottery players, The National Lottery Heritage Fund supports projects that connect people and communities with the UK’s heritage. The Almanac: Folk Crafts & Culture is made possible with The National Lottery Heritage Fund. Thanks to National Lottery players, we have been able to deliver a creative programme exploring traditional craft, cultural exchange, and connections to the heritage of Boston.
About The National Lottery Heritage Fund
The National Lottery Heritage Fund is the largest funder for the UK’s heritage. Using money raised by National Lottery players we support projects that connect people and communities to heritage. Our vision is for heritage to be valued, cared for and sustained for everyone, now and in the future. From historic buildings, our industrial legacy and the natural environment, to collections, traditions, stories and more. Heritage can be anything from the past that people value and want to pass on to future generations. We believe in the power of heritage to ignite the imagination, offer joy and inspiration, and to build pride in place and connection to the past.