Now + There Accelerator Artist Ponnapa Prakkamakul’s “Joyful Stitch” opens in Boston’s Leather District

Now + There Public Art Accelerator artist Ponnapa Prakkamakul premieres Joyful Stitch, a new interactive public art installation that consists of two sculptures inviting people to paddle with their feet or roll with their hands to illuminate the lights along the artwork. The installation, located at Leather District Park, 29 South Street, Boston, near South Station, is set to open on Saturday, July 1 with a public reception from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m. 

Joyful Stitch is a temporary installation designed to provide a space for local residents to connect and bring joy to the Leather District community. The artwork, inspired by the invention of the first sewing machine in Boston, tells the tale of the historical contributions of the Leather District and Chinatown to the textile industry. 

The installation includes two large, interactive sculptures that come to life with light as visitors engage with them. Each sculpture connects to platforms, mimicking the industrial equipment once used by fabric workers in the past. One platform faces the Leather District, and the other Chinatown, anchoring the installation to its historical roots and current surroundings. 

The installation also highlights the personal stories of Leather District resident Larry Chan and former Chinatown resident Cynthia Yee, both with family ties to the garment industry. These narratives, coupled with visions for the future of the park gathered from resident workshops, form the backdrop of the installation, inviting viewers to reflect on the past, present, and future of their community. 

The concept behind “Joyful Stitch” stems from Ponnapa's belief in มุทิตา (RTGS: muthitaa) — joy that arises from delight in other people’s well-being. This installation offers shared, playful moments and aims to encourage social interaction, reflection, and learning about the historical context of the area. See more information about the installation here.  

"Now + There’s Accelerator program continues to bring thoughtful community-engaged works like Joyful Stitch into our neighborhoods," said Kate Gilbert, Executive Director of Now + There. "Our vision at Now + There is to use public art as a catalyst for social interaction, civic engagement, and cultural discourse. We're excited to open our sixth cohort and continue to push the boundaries of what public art can achieve. Applications to be considered for our next round are open now until Monday, July 31.” 

Everyone is invited to join on July 1st from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m. to celebrate the opening of Joyful Stitch and experience firsthand the joy and connection that this installation brings to the Leather District and beyond. 

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