The City of Somerville, in partnership with the Metropolitan Area Planning Council (MAPC), is seeking submissions of original photography and artwork for the Keep Cool Somerville photovoice project and survey. 

The Keep Cool Somerville initiative aims to advance health equity and climate resilience in the city by documenting residents’ experiences with hot weather and how they’re staying cool during this unprecedented summer. Submissions to the Keep Cool Somerville project will inform a forthcoming toolkit of strategies to reduce the health risks of extreme heat. Participants have a chance to win a $25 gift card and have their images included in an outdoor public exhibit this fall. Photovoice submissions will be accepted through September 12, 2020.

How to Participate:

1. Draw, paint, or take photos of places and things that show your experiences with extreme heat and what you do to keep cool. Do you spend time by the water or a shady tree? Enjoy a cold drink? Change how you get around town? Your image will tell your story. 

2. Submit your photos or artwork online at www.mapc.org/keep-cool-somerville or email them to Jeanette Pantoja at jpantoja@mapc.org. You can also post images on social media with the hashtag #keepcoolsomerville to inspire others. 

3. Provide a brief description of your image that includes the location and why you took it. 

Guidelines for Imagery: 

• Photos should be taken in Somerville. 

• Please avoid selfies and posed photos; instead, document what you see in your daily life. 

• Please ask permission when taking photos of people. 

• By submitting your photos or artwork, you agree that MAPC can use them in any medium and for any purpose related to this project. 

For more information about the Keep Cool Somerville photovoice project, please visit www.mapc.org/keep-cool-somerville or contact Jeanette Pantoja at jpantoja@mapc.org.  

For more heat-safety tips and resources, visit www.somervillema.gov/keepcool.