The official ArtBeat 2020 graphic, designed by Paula Champagne, seems appropriate for this year’s ArtBeat theme, “Chance.”

The Somerville Arts Council presents: ArtBeat Festival 2020

The festival is very much on, albeit in a different form this year – over the course of eight days, we’ll have some virtual performances as well as some safe real-life happenings, such as art installations popping up and poetry hitting the streets. We believe art plays a more crucial role than ever, in promoting community, supporting our collective mental health, and providing a means for expression and protest. This year the festival theme is “Chance,” which explores all things fluky, unexpected and unplanned. The theme—and our beautiful graphic, designed by Paula Champagne – turned out to be more timely and poignant than we could have imagined.

SAFETY: All aspects of the festival will strictly follow Covid-19 safety protocol. Much of the festival will be virtual; yet when visiting installations or if you “chance” upon a happening, wear a mask and respect social distancing. SAC staff will also be on site when necessary to ensure safety protocol is followed.

July 10-18, Citywide

A concise day-by-day schedule coming soon: www.somervilleartscouncill.org/artbeat/2020