LYNN — A celebratory atmosphere filled downtown Lynn as community members, City officials, and local artists gathered to mark the unveiling of a long-anticipated banner project on Exchange Street. The initiative, years in the making, highlights not only artistic talent but also the cultural vibrancy and diversity that define the city.

“This has been a long, long time coming to have the banners up on Exchange Street, and we really want to take a moment and thank the City for their partnership,” Co-founder of Lynn Main Streets Samantha Wheeler McHugh shared, emphasizing the collaborative effort behind the project. The initiative reflects a shared commitment to public art and community engagement.

McHugh added, “This project represents the voices and diversity, which makes the city amazing.”

The banners are expected to appear throughout downtown in the coming months, with additional installations planned near City Hall and other key areas. McHugh expressed hope that the project will continue to grow, noting that future sponsorships could allow for regularly updated designs.

As a volunteer-led effort, the board underscored its gratitude to residents, City staff, and partners who helped bring the vision to life.

A key highlight of the event was the recognition of this year’s winning artist, Schneider Narcisse, whose design is featured downtown.

McHugh praised the work for authentically reflecting the spirit of the community, stating that the artist “really represents Lynn.” The unveiling included a small commemorative presentation, symbolizing both achievement and the beginning of a broader public showcase.

Mayor Jared Nicholson also spoke at the event, underscoring the importance of art in shaping the identity and vitality of the city.

“This piece is amazing, and it’s such a great encapsulation of how important art is to our community, to our downtown, especially in how it can connect people,” he said.

He further highlighted the role of art in economic development and community building, adding: “Art is a key foundation of our approach to this area of the city… and this is a great way to show how it brings people together.”

Nicholson also presented Narcisse with a formal certificate recognizing his artistic contribution and selection as the Downtown Lynn Banner Project winner. He also noted that Narcisse is already well-known locally, with previous works displayed on public infrastructure such as decorated trash receptacles.

“We’re familiar. We’re big fans,” Nicholson remarked, expressing pride in Narcisse’s continued contributions.

When it came time for the artist to speak, Narcisse shared both gratitude and excitement.

“First of all, I just want to say thank you so much for this beautiful opportunity… I’m so happy to be here,” he said.

Reflecting on the creative process, Narcisse described the experience as both intensive and inspired: “It was, like, a lot of thinking, a lot of, like, brainstorming… I just ended up thinking a lot about the Lynn Museum, and I was like, ‘OK, let’s just do this.’”

The event ultimately served as a reminder of the power of public art, not only as decoration, but as a unifying force.

As Nicholson put it simply, art “makes our lives better,” a sentiment clearly shared by all in attendance.