ARTLine is a Malden initiative by Malden Arts to bring public art to the Northern Strand Community Trail in all five of the communities along the trail. Drawing inspiration from the High Line, the Rose Kennedy Greenway and the mural festivals in Lynn and Worcester, Malden Arts is partnering with Groundwork Somerville, Mass Development and the City of Malden to transform the Northern Strand Community Trail into an outdoor public art gallery integrated into the community and outdoor recreation.
In downtown Malden, tucked away off of Commercial Street, you will find some of ARTLine’s work. Partnering with high school students from Malden High School, Mystic Valley Regional Charter School and Malden Catholic High School and their art teachers, ARTLine started a program to paint The Wonderful World of Ed Emberley Mural. The community mural honors children’s book author Ed Embereley, who was born in the city on October 19, 1931.
Public art like that honoring Mr. Embereley, is the vision for the ARTLine project throughout the Northern Strand Community Trail. Part of the project’s goal is to feature large murals and artwork by well-known artists, musicians and writers who grew up in Malden, as well as a River of Ties Mural celebrating the old rail corridor and the Malden River, which both run through city. The River of Ties Mural is a free-standing piece celebrating the history of the railroad and runs along the historical Saugus Branch Rail Line.
The ARTLine is looking to increase foot traffic to local area businesses by creating outdoor opportunities around public art with pocket parks jutting off of the bike path for bikers and walkers to gather and socialize. Malden Arts’ goal is to encourage use of the trail for biking, walking, and enjoying public art with Malden residents and visitors alike.
In Malden, the first four sites for the project will be murals on existing walls at the Doo Wop Diner, Exchange Street on the back wall of 110 Pleasant, the Yong Yong restaurant and a sculpture in Linden Square. The ARTLine will be funded through grants and public contributions.
Interested in experiencing the art scene and living in Malden? Visit our communities, 160 Pleasant and The Exchange Street Apartments, where luxury living meets the arts.