FRACC Announces "Tide Portal" - A Landmark Public Mural Celebrating Fall River's Past, Present, and Future

The Fall River Arts & Culture Coalition (FRACC) is thrilled to announce its public art initiative supported by Bloomberg Philanthropies' Asphalt Art Initiative, an international program that helps cities use art and community engagement to improve street safety, activate public spaces, and strengthen neighborhood identity.

As part of this initiative, FRACC commissioned artist Lena Mac (Lena McCarthy), whose dreamlike mural work explores nature, healing, transformation, and the unseen connections that shape our world. Her practice invites viewers into immersive visual experiences rooted in hope, wonder, and imagination.

Tide Portal is a hand painted mural located at the Davol Street underpass in Fall River’s waterfront district. Drawing inspiration from the tunnel architecture of the underpass, and its location to the water—Tide Portal speaks of the natural tide rhythms and the many journeys that shape a place like Fall River. McCarthy canonizes migratory birds such as Arctic Terns and marine life- Marlins and whales along with flowing pieces of thread which are subtle references to the city's textile heritage. The mural invites viewers to reflect on movement, belonging, and the beauty found in moments of transition as embodied in the space of the overpass.

"Tide Portal is about cycles of change and the connections that bind us together," said artist Lena McCarthy. "The tides, guided by the moon, remind us that change is constant. The migratory species represent both the natural world and Fall River's history as a city of immigration, while the thread symbolizes textile heritage and the invisible connections between past, present, and future. Even the small hydrangea tucked into the composition offers a quiet nod to the Azores and the many families whose stories are woven into this community."

After nearly three years of permitting, project redesigns, and rising construction costs, the project is now entering its final phase. To help bring the mural across the finish line, FRACC has launched a community matching fundraising campaign, giving residents, businesses, and supporters the opportunity to amplify Bloomberg Philanthropies' investment in Fall River.

Every contribution will help cover the remaining installation expenses, including artist assistants, installation equipment, materials, volunteer coordination, research and reporting, and other essential project costs made necessary by the project's extended timeline. Donations of every size will help ensure the successful completion of this nationally recognized public art investment. As a thank-you, donors who contribute $250 or more will receive a limited-edition FRACC ART hat.

"This project demonstrates how public art can serve multiple purposes. This mural defines a pedestrian area in a fast traffic zone. This creates safer conditions for pedestrians, as well as enlivening an otherwise underutilized space. The greatest benefit of all is to offer art to everyone," said Tracy Silva Barbosa, Executive Director of the Fall River Arts & Culture Coalition. "Tide Portal is a testament to the power of perseverance. Despite years of delays and challenges, we remained committed to seeing this vision through. Public art has the power to transform ordinary places into meaningful spaces that inspire pride, spark conversation, and strengthen community. This mural is a lasting investment in Fall River and a celebration of the vital role of arts and culture in our city." 

Donations are accepted through MightCause: mtyc.co/qw6v9f 

The project will culminate in a public unveiling of Tide Portal, celebrating community, place, and creative expression in Fall River.

"Public Art is for everyone," said Michelle Borges, Executive Assistant and Programs Manager at FRACC. "No invitation needed. Whether you're walking, driving by, or visiting Fall River for the first time, this mural belongs to you. Now an internationally recognized artist, it's meaningful to welcome Lena back to her home state. Her powerhouse leadership on this project is particularly significant in an art form that has historically been male-dominated. We hope FRACC Murals create connections and positive experiences throughout Fall River.”

FRACC invites the public, community partners, donors, and members of the media to attend the official unveiling on August 19th at 7PM. The celebration will feature live music, refreshments, remarks from community leaders, and opportunities to engage directly with the artist and project partners.

Event Program

• Welcome gathering w/ live music by the Buttonwood Brass Band and light refreshments

• Opening remarks from FRACC Executive Director Tracy Silva Barbosa

• Recognition of project partners, including artist Lena McCarthy and assistant, Bloomberg Philanthropies' Asphalt Art Initiative, Sunrise Erectors, the Massachusetts Department of Transportation, the City of Fall River

• Artist remarks Q&A on the mural's inspiration and creative process

• Reflections from community leaders on the impact of public art

• Photographs, networking, and media interviews

RSVP on EventBrite: eventbrite.com/e/fracc-murals-tide-portal-unveiling-tickets-1995245093786

About the Project

Tide Portal reflects FRACC’s ongoing commitment to expanding access to the arts and strengthening public spaces through creative placemaking. Supported by Bloomberg Philanthropies’ Asphalt Art Initiative, the project brings together artists, residents, and civic partners to transform shared environments into vibrant cultural landmarks. The Fall River Arts & Culture Coalition (FRACC) is dedicated to supporting arts, culture, and creative collaboration across Fall River. Through partnerships, programming, and public art initiatives, FRACC works to foster inclusive cultural spaces that uplift local artists and strengthen community connections.