Artists At Work (AAW) is a national workforce resilience initiative inspired by the Works Progress Administration (WPA). Designed to recognize and support artists as essential contributors to society, AAW provides participants with:
- A living wage salary and full health benefits
- Access to professional development and a learning cohort
- A structured opportunity to lead civic engagement projects rooted in community priorities
AAW fosters sustainable artistic careers while leveraging creativity as a tool for the public good.
Springfield Launch: Civic Art in Action
AAW Springfield is a 12-month initiative centered in the Mason Square neighborhood, part of the Springfield TDI District. This program supports four local artists to co-develop and lead public-facing, youth-engaged projects aligned with community goals—especially around themes of identity, history, and belonging, and community safety and wellness.
The initiative is grounded in deep collaboration, shaped by input from local youth and community stakeholders throughout the year.
Community Partnerships
The artists’ work will be supported by and in collaboration with:
- MLK Jr. Family Services
- Springfield Armory National Historic Site
- Springfield City Library – Mason Square Branch
Together, these partners will help amplify youth voices, activate neighborhood spaces, and deepen impact by aligning projects with existing missions, programs, and community resources.
Support & Funders
This program is made possible through the generous support of:
- National Endowment for the Arts
- The Irene E. & George A. Davis Foundation
- Fresh Sound Foundation
- Baystate Health
Learn More & Meet the Artists
Click the button below to visit the national AAW Springfield page for artist biographies, project updates, and behind-the-scenes stories.
