FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
NOVEMBER 14, 2024
Contact: Hendrick Hernandez-Resto hhernandez@nbedc.org 508-985-8206
Click here for link to hi-res photography.
Spectacular 3-D Projection Light Show Debuts at St. Anthony of Padua Church December 7
NEW BEDFORD, MA — Local creative enterprise Broken Glass Projection Mapping will present a captivating evening of art, light, and music with the first-ever 3-D Projection Light Show at St. Anthony of Padua Church. In collaboration with the historic church, New Bedford Creative, Explore New Bedford and the New Bedford TDI Partnership, this immersive experience “Bringing Light and Art to Life” will be held on Saturday, December 7, beginning at 5:00 p.m. inside St. Anthony of Padua Church at 1359 Acushnet Ave., New Bedford, MA and is open to the public free of charge.
Projection mapping, an art form that has captivated audiences worldwide, transforms everyday structures into stunning works of art by projecting vibrant videos and images onto them. This unique 3-D technique, pioneered across Europe, arrived in New Bedford through the creative expertise of local artist Nelson Rapoza, founder of Broken Glass Projection Mapping. Known for bringing 3-D projection mapping to venues like the New Bedford Whaling Museum, Co-Creative Center, Fort Rodman, and most recently Acushnet Avenue on Halloween, Rapoza’s work combines intricate visuals with powerful colors and light to breathe life into architectural landmarks.
“Bringing this art form to St. Anthony’s, a building steeped in history and significance for our community, is an honor,” said Nelson Rapoza. “Through projection mapping, we’re able to see the familiar in a new and exciting way, and we’re eager to share that with the New Bedford community.”
This special event at St. Anthony of Padua Church will bring new dimension and vibrancy to the historic contours of one of New Bedford’s most beloved landmarks. The show will not only feature breathtaking visuals but will also be accompanied by live music, enhancing the sensory experience for attendees. Hot chocolate will also be served downstairs in the church hall.
St. Anthony of Padua Church, together with the New Bedford TDI Partnership of MassDevelopment, invites everyone to this unforgettable event celebrating the intersection of art, history, and innovation. It’s yet another opportunity to Love The Ave – the latest in a series of special events that showcase the culture and creative businesses centered around the commercial corridor of Acushnet Avenue in New Bedford’s north end.
Event Details:
- Date: Saturday, December 7, 2024
- Time: 5:00 p.m.
- Location: St. Anthony of Padua Church, 1359 Acushnet Ave., New Bedford, MA
- Admission: Free and open to the public
For event updates, please follow @NewBedfordCreative or @LoveTheAve on Facebook or Instagram or visit www.lovetheave.com.
About Broken Glass Projection Mapping:
Owned by New Bedford native Nelson Rapoza, Broken Glass Projection Mapping brings the innovative art of 3-D projection mapping to life, transforming ordinary spaces into mesmerizing displays of light and color. Visit www.bgpro.pro for more information.
About St. Anthony of Padua Church:
Founded in 1895, St. Anthony of Padua Church is a Roman Catholic parish in New Bedford, Massachusetts, part of the Diocese of Fall River. It has served as a cornerstone of faith, community, and culture in New Bedford throughout its history. Its magnificent architecture provides a unique backdrop for this immersive 3-D light experience, inviting new perspectives on the beauty of this treasured building.
About New Bedford Creative at the NBEDC:
New Bedford Creative is a program of the New Bedford Economic Development Council (NBEDC), and is specifically tasked with implementing the City of New Bedford’s first-ever strategic arts and culture plan, with the vision that “… In this authentic seaport city, each and every person enjoys an opportunity to experience a diversity of cultures. Art is everywhere, encouraging fun, provoking thought, and nurturing the soul.” Follow New Bedford Creative on Facebook and Instagram, or visit newbedfordcreative.org for more information.
About Explore New Bedford:
Explore New Bedford promotes the City of New Bedford as a leisure and business travel destination and hub for creatives, entrepreneurs, and small business owners. We celebrate the story of the city’s history, arts, and culture by sharing the diverse stories of our vibrant community. Follow Explore New Bedford on Facebook and Instagram, or visit explorenewbedford.org for more information.
About New Bedford TDI District:
The New Bedford TDI District is focused on the revitalization of the commercial corridor Acushnet Avenue in the city’s north end. TDI stands for Transformative Development Initiative. It is one of many TDI Districts in Massachusetts. Each is part of a larger MassDevelopment program to stimulate economic growth, encourage community development, improve infrastructure, enhance public spaces, and attract private investment within the districts.
Photo description: Nelson Rapoza, owner of Broken Glass Projection Mapping, sits inside of St. Anthony of Padua Church in New Bedford, Massachusetts.
Photo credit: Maggie Howland for Explore New Bedford