Online
Creative Space DNA: Municipal Creative Trusts
Event Date 10.30.2026
Time 12pm
Join Mass Cultural Council and the ArtStaysHere Coalition for the next Creative Space Development Network Accelerator (DNA) online discussion for those who are developing, preserving, operating, and advocating for a healthier creative space ecosystem across Massachusetts. Each session will focus on a particular aspect of creative space preservation and development, and we’ll make sure there’s time for questions and discussion beyond the featured subject. Our goal is to provide an open and dynamic network of actively engaged space operators and advocates.
Every community in Massachusetts is feeling the squeeze of rising real estate values, sometimes placing local artist studios, maker spaces, and cultural venues at risk of displacement. While private land trusts and mission-based developers are an important piece of the puzzle, municipalities can be front and center with policies and a municipal trust model.
Drawing on pioneering work by the Metropolitan Area Planning Council (MAPC) in partnership with the Somerville Arts Council, this session delves into how local governments can develop policies and zoning tools to project and advance creative spaces. We’ll also talk about how those tools are complimented by a Municipal Creative Trust mechanism to help finance, develop, and protect affordable creative spaces, much like with housing.
Featuring:
We welcome your input on potential topics for future sessions. Please be in touch with Jay Paget with any suggestions and ideas.
Auto-generated captions will be provided. If you have additional questions or to request additional accommodations to ensure your participation, please contact Jay Paget.