Center for Science Engagement Awarded Grant from Mass Cultural Council to Launch “Robot as Artist” Creative Technology Workshops
The Center for Science Engagement is thrilled to announce that we have been awarded an organizational Creative Experiences grant from the Mass Cultural Council, a state agency dedicated to supporting arts, culture, and interpretive science across Massachusetts.
This grant will support our new initiative, Robot as Artist: Tech + Creativity Maker Series, a hands-on program that invites young people to explore the intersection of art, robotics, AI, and digital fabrication. The workshop series will be hosted at the Brockton Public Library and is designed especially for teens and young adults (ages 13–25) who may not have previously had access to creative technology.
A New Space Where Art and Technology Meet
Through guided workshops, participants will experiment with tools such as robot arms, generative AI design tools, 3D pens, and digital fabrication techniques. Each session encourages exploration, creative problem-solving, and playful invention—helping young makers build both artistic confidence and technical skills.
The series will culminate in:
- A rotating public exhibit inside the library, showcasing youth-created digital and physical artworks
- An interactive “Draw with the Robot” community day, where families and visitors can watch the robot create live artwork and even co-create their own works of art to take home!
In total, the project is expected to reach 150–300 participants in person, with 1,000+ additional learners accessing downloadable and virtual activities online.
Opening Doors to Creativity
“This support from the Mass Cultural Council helps us open doors to creativity for young people who are eager to explore both art and technology,” said Barnas Monteith, President of the Center for Science Engagement. “When students get to experiment with cutting-edge tools in an inclusive, hands-on environment, amazing things happen.”
About the Creative Experiences Program
The Mass Cultural Council’s Creative Experiences program provides $5,000 grants to organizations that deliver community-centered arts, culture, and science activities. In its inaugural year, the program awarded 708 grants totaling $3.375 million to support creative programming across the Commonwealth.
“Mass Cultural Council is proud to support activities that reflect the rich diversity of our communities, bring people together, and create spaces where creativity can thrive,” said Michael J. Bobbitt, Executive Director of Mass Cultural Council.
About the Center for Science Engagement
The Center for Science Engagement is a nonprofit organization dedicated to igniting curiosity and fostering creativity through accessible, hands-on experiences that merge technology, STEM, and the arts. Through programs that integrate robotics, digital fabrication, artificial intelligence, and creative design, the Center inspires inclusive innovation and lifelong learning.
Want to Get Involved?
Workshop dates and registration will be announced soon.
Sign up for updates via the AI+Art contact page at: engagescience.org