Star Store Accepting Requests for Space & Activations

Star Store Accepting Requests for Space & Activations plus Results of Community Engagement

The Arts & Business Council of Greater Boston, who own the historic Star Store in downtown New Bedford, is preparing to reopen the building as a vibrant hub for creativity, learning, and community connection. This is your opportunity to be part of the building’s first phase of activation (late 2026 – early 2027) — whether you’re an artist, educator, organization, or simply have ideas for pop-ups and exhibitions.
Results of Six Months of Community Engagement
Between May and November 2025, the Arts & Business Council of Greater Boston in collaboration with New Bedford Creative at the NBEDC led a robust community engagement process, including nine in-person public meetings and an extensive digital survey. Over 400 people participated, sharing their vision for the Star Store as a public-facing, inclusive, and flexible creative space.
What the Community Told Us
  • Make the Star Store welcoming and accessible for all ages, backgrounds, and skill levels.
  • Prioritize public-facing spaces like galleries, performance areas, shared workshops, and classrooms.
  • Provide flexible, affordable, and multi-use spaces for artists, organizations, and community members.
  • Include youth-focused, intergenerational, and multicultural programming.
  • Build trust through transparent governance and ongoing community input.
Request Space: If you are interested in a studio, office, or shared workspace, complete the Request for Space at the Star Store Form. This form starts a conversation—it does not obligate you to take space.
Propose Temporary Activations: Got an idea for a pop-up, exhibition, or short-term program? Share it via the Star Store Pop-Up and Temporary Activation Interest Form. Submit one form per activity you’d like to propose.
Learn More
Have questions?
Contact Matt McArthur at matt@artsandbusinesscouncil.org.
Visit the website at starstorenb.org.
Together, we can reimagine the Star Store as a place where creativity, culture, and community come alive.
Photo of Lighting the Star Store exhibit on AHA! Night by Josh Souza (December 11, 2025) featuring artwork by Kat Knutsen.
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