“The Heart of Fashion and Art: Celebrating the Spirit of the Denholm through a Contemporary Lens” Exhibit to Open Nov. 12

"The Heart of Fashion and Art: Celebrating the Spirit of the Denholm through a Contemporary Lens" Exhibit to Open Nov. 12

For Immediate Release: 11/7/2024 4:20 pm

WORCESTER, Mass. - The City of Worcester Cultural Development Division, in partnership with the Worcester Cultural Coalition and Worcester Redevelopment Authority, announced Thursday "The Heart of Fashion and Art: Celebrating the Spirit of the Denholm through a Contemporary Lens" exhibit, which will open with a reception at the Jean McDonough Arts Center on Tuesday, Nov. 12, 2024, at 6 p.m.

The Denholm Building, located at 484 Main St., was home to the iconic retailer Denholms, which held a 103-year legacy as Massachusetts' largest department store outside Boston.

The exhibit brings together nine artists who created window installations to be displayed inside the Denholm Building to honor the historic fashion landmark. Curated by Melissa Mattson, the featured artists include Molly McGrath of Grime, LeighAnn Soucy of The Thicket, Julia Csekö, Ernie Kwame Solo Jubin, Emmanuella Saforo, Xiang Li, Livi Faulkner, and Emmanuel Qlynton Carboo.

The artists took on the challenge of re-activating the windows, with the first window serving as a memorial to a classic Denholms display from the past.

"Storytelling, history, culture, and heart are all parts of this vibrant city, and these window displays showcase the diverse talent of our community," said Mattson. "Each of the nine selected designers brought a unique perspective, putting a piece of their own hearts on display."

Each window installation in the Denholm activation includes a hidden heart or heart motif, symbolizing the community's enduring passion for fashion and recognizing Worcester as the Heart of the Commonwealth.

"The Denholm exhibit celebrates the rich mosaic of creativity and history that makes Worcester unique," said Fabian Barracks, Cultural Development Officer for the City of Worcester. "This project not only revives the iconic Denholm Building as a cultural landmark but also empowers local artists, fashioning our city's vibrant identity through art in each window. As part of the Worcester Windows program, it brings life to our Cultural Plan's mission to elevate creativity as a cornerstone of our community."

The exhibit will be on view through Oct. 31, 2025. All are welcome to attend the opening reception on Nov. 12 at 6 p.m. at the Jean McDonough Arts Center at 20B Franklin St.