GBH has launched its new initiative called Community Canvas, which is presented by GBH News’ The Culture Show and offers a big screen showcase for local arts and culture. The first local artist to be featured is MassArt student Ari Bowman.. Bowman said in an Instagram post, “Super honored to have this painting I made last year be the first artwork displayed on GBH’s Digital Mural as part of Community Canvas.”

In late September, GBH announced a call for submissions designed to spotlight the work of local artists and photographers by displaying their artwork on the GBH Digital Mural, a 30 ft. x 45 ft. screen that soars over the Massachusetts Turnpike at GBH’s headquarters in Brighton. The digital mural is an iconic part of the Boston cityscape, presenting daily images to drivers heading east toward Boston. It is seen by thousands of drivers and pedestrians every day.Selected works will be featured for an afternoon on the digital mural on Fridays each week. The imagery will also be featured on  GBH.org’s digital mural blog and highlighted on The Culture Show, and GBH News’ social media platforms. More days may be added to the schedule.

“Local talent runs deep and we are excited for the opportunity to amplify this artwork on our digital mural and across other platforms,” said Susan Goldberg, GBH President and CEO. “This initiative represents what makes public media special: our commitment to community.”

Individuals can submit their work via  this form for consideration. Work must be of high quality with subject matter appropriate for all audiences. Work will be accepted on a rolling basis through December 30, 2024. Individuals will be credited on the digital mural and will retain copyright of their work. More information, including a full list of criteria, can be found here.

“The Culture Show is all about bringing the most invigorating and inspiring contributions in arts and culture to our listeners. Each daily program is an opportunity to connect with New England’s unique roster of cultural leaders, mold-breaking creators, and conversation conveners,” said host Jared Bowen, GBH Executive Arts Editor. “We couldn’t be more excited to be part of Community Canvas and foster pride in local arts and culture, a goal which anchors every episode. The GBH Digital Mural is the perfect frame for our rich cultural scene in Boston and beyond.”

The Culture Show, which airs Monday through Friday at 2pm ET on GBH 89.7 and on gbhnews.org. Bowen is routinely joined by co-hosts Callie Crossley, host of Under the Radar with Callie Crossley; Edgar B. Herwick III, host of The Curiosity Desk; and James Bennett II, a GBH News arts and culture reporter and CRB Classical 99.5 contributor.