Embracing community and connection, WaterFire Providence opens its 2025 summer exhibition

WaterFire Providence opened its 2025 summer exhibition "Growing the NetWorks" on July 10 at the WaterFire Arts Center, featuring 65 Rhode Island artists. This exhibition emphasizes the importance of community connections and builds upon Dr. Joseph Chazan's legacy of supporting local artists and promoting their work. Jean Blackburn, a featured artist, stated, “Considering the strength of the creative community here, a gallery like this is so important for people to see the work that’s made here. ” Chazan, who died at age 89, dedicated much of his life to recognizing and uplifting Rhode Island artists through initiatives like the NetWorks Rhode Island project.

The current exhibition showcases a diverse array of artistic mediums, including sculpture, painting, and photography. Artists from the 2024 exhibition nominated participants for this year's show, reinforcing the collaborative spirit Chazan embodied. Emily Gray, WaterFire's executive and curatorial assistant, noted the supportive environment of the Providence arts community, where artists encourage one another. The exhibition serves as a testament to Chazan's vision of connectivity and recognition within the local artistic landscape.