Arts, Culture and the Creative Economy 

The Department of Arts, Culture, and the Creative Economy in Franklin is dedicated to fostering a vibrant, inclusive, and sustainable cultural ecosystem that enriches the quality of life for all residents while driving economic growth. Through strategic planning, accessible programming, and a commitment to community engagement, we create opportunities for creativity to flourish and for connections to deepen.

We champion public art, inclusive spaces like the revitalized Sculpture Park, and innovative digital initiatives to amplify cultural experiences and broaden our reach. By cultivating a robust network of volunteers, local businesses, artists, and residents, we empower the community to actively shape Franklin’s cultural landscape.

2024 Arts and Culture Wrap

In 2024, the Franklin Cultural District, the Franklin Cultural Council, and the Town of Franklin's Department of Arts, Culture, and the Creative Economy collaborated to deliver a diverse array of programs and events that enriched the community's cultural landscape.

2025 Arts and Culture Symposium

Franklin Arts & Culture Symposium is a dynamic, cross-sector event designed for artists, creative entrepreneurs, small business owners and anyone passionate about building vibrant communities through the arts and the creative economy. Visit the programs website here.

Learn how recognizing cultural programs as key economic drivers can help build a stronger, more resilient local economy, click here.

Beyond Franklin, explore the broader impact of arts and culture through the 2024 Massachusetts Cultural Asset Inventory. "Mass Cultural Council, in collaboration with Diversity North Group, is proud to announce the completion of the 2024 Massachusetts Cultural Asset Inventory. This comprehensive data project, which took place from February-December 2024, identifies and documents thousands of cultural organizations, programs, and individuals contributing to the state’s vibrant cultural landscape." Visit the Report here. 

Contact & Staff

Cory Shea Department of Arts, Culture and the Creative Economy
  • cshea@franklinma.gov
  • 774-507-6132

Want to stay connected to all things arts and culture in Franklin? 

There are plenty of ways to stay in the know!  Sign up for the Franklin Cultural District’s weekly e-blasts for a roundup of upcoming events, public art updates, artist calls, and local creative opportunities. We send emails out every Wednesday at 7am.

Get even more involved by attending monthly meetings of the Cultural Council or Cultural District Committee, or by joining one of our active subcommittees. Check our public meeting calendars for agendas and meeting locations.

For day-to-day updates, behind-the-scenes progress, and creative highlights, follow our work on social media: @franklinculture