Hot Funk Foundry is an arts studio and workshop creating one-of-a-kind, wearable art belts that combine cast bronze or aluminum buckles with hand-dyed, printed leather straps. The team collaborates with local artists and metalworkers to produce unique, numbered pieces and plans hands-on classes in bronze casting, custom buckle design, and leather belt painting. Visitors can explore current inventory, request custom work, and follow updates on workshops and events through the website.
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The Memorial Boulevard tunnel in Waterplace Park, right by Track 15, was once a dark space that could not support activations. Today it is illuminated with dynamic lighting that strengthens our You Belong Here network from the Basin to the Point Street Bridge and through Greater Kennedy Plaza.
The lighting program changes throughout the year with curated color palettes that reflect holidays, seasons, and cultural moments, creating moments of connection for everyone who moves through downtown.
With significant investment from @pvdmayor, support from @ricommerce and partnership with @sitespecificllc , and the City of Providence, this previously underused passage is now a welcoming and engaging part of the public realm.
Project support included
• $200K from the Providence capital budget
• $125K CommerceRI grant via Downtown Providence Park Network
• $76K in in-kind contributions from the City’s Parks Department and the RI Dep. of Corrections
What do you think of the transformation?
📸Justin Case
Sott’Acqua: A Tale of Two Cities transformed downtown Providence into a powerful, immersive dialogue between Florence and Providence. Together with @splendorofflorence, we filled our waterfront with art, history, and the shared story of two cities shaped by water, resilience, and creativity.
And now the journey continues.
In November 2026, A Tale of Two Cities will come to life once again — this time in Florence.
We can’t wait!
🎄 The countdown is on! From December 4-7 join us in celebrating community, light and joy at the PVD Holiday Festival in Downtown Providence. Stay tuned for details and special events!
Helen Rowe Metcalf changed the course of Providence history when she chose to invest in education instead of a public monument. In 1877, she used leftover funds from the Rhode Island Women’s Centennial Commission to found what would become the Rhode Island School of Design (@risd1877) a bold move many thought was too risky for women to lead.
Her vision created a space where early students—mostly women—could study jewelry-making, furniture design, and textiles, supporting Providence’s booming industries. Metcalf personally shaped the school’s curriculum, teaching standards, and daily operations, laying the foundation for one of the world’s top art and design schools.
Today, RISD stands as a testament to women’s leadership, creativity, and innovation in art, design, and Rhode Island history. Her legacy continues to inspire students, makers, and the entire Providence RI community.
#RISD #HelenRoweMetcalf
Thousands of you joined us in downtown Providence this weekend as we honored Día de los Muertos in partnership with @rilatinoarts, @waterfirepvd, and local artists.
At the Downtown Providence Park Network, our hope was for you to learn and experience the scared Mexican tradition. The bright marigolds, or cempasúchil, guided the spirits home with their color and fragrance. Candles lit their way with warmth and light. Pan de Muerto represented the circle of life and the love that endures. We shared more than 500 pieces baked by the family at @la.artesa.bakery with hot chocolate as families, friends, and visitors gathered to honor their loved ones. The ofrenda held photos, water, and cherished mementos, creating a bridge between the living and the departed. Traditional Mexican dance @grupomisolha filled the evening with music.
Thank you for adding the name of your loved ones to the ofrenda by @alhteran. In Providence, everyone belongs.
30 Exchange Terrace
Providence, RI 02903