LYNN — Raw Art Works (RAW) and Keolis Commuter Services, the operating partner for the MBTA, teamed up to install artwork at the interim train station on Tuesday.
Keolis volunteers joined local officials and RAW team members to participate in a station clean-up and unveil a three-panel mural centered around the phrase “Lynn Loves.”
Lissa Bautista, a RAW alumna, said the piece took three days to paint.
“We created an art piece to help with spreading love here at the interim train station, even though it is temporary for the time being – creating a space and bringing energy so that people feel safe coming to the station,” she said.
She added with the different colors represented in the arms and hands of the painting, the artists wanted to create awareness of the diversity of people who visit the station, particularly as there can be stigma surrounding using public transit.
Bautista added that she wants people to know that the city is a safe space for everyone.
“We’re just a melting pot of diversity,” she said. “We have energy all around the city that just creates more liveliness and creates more of that atmosphere that everyone can come together for.”
“RAW is thrilled to bring art to the heart of our community with the interim commuter rail station project, in partnership with Keolis,” RAW Executive Director Rosario Ubiera-Minaya said.
Ubiera-Minaya said the project allowed the organization to contribute to the transformation of the transit space into a “vibrant and inspiring environment, reflecting the spirit, creativity and heart of our city.”
“We hope our contributions brighten Lynners’ daily journeys and connect people through the beauty of artistic expression,” she added.
State Sen. Brendan Crighton, who volunteered during the cleanup, said he was thrilled commuter rail riders will have the opportunity to enjoy art during the commute.
“It has been amazing to witness the level of community involvement in this project, as well as the local talent that has been highlighted,” he added. “I would like to express my gratitude to Keolis, Raw Art Works and all of the volunteers for the work they put in to enhance riders’ experience of Lynn Station as we await the completion of improvements.”
Abdellah Chajai, GM and CEO of Keolis Commuter Services, emphasized the importance of the interim train station to the city’s community.
“Keolis is proud to partner with the community and local leaders to brighten this station with landscaping and beautiful local art,” he said.
