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The Worker Artists Group, part of the UMass Building Bridges initiative, invites UMass staff to share images that may be displayed during an exhibit for the annual Random Acts of Kindness Through Art campaign in Spring 2026.

The campaign, now entering its fourth year, is based on the premise that giving the community something beautiful, handmade, and meaningfully crafted brings joy to both the artist and the recipient. Examples of the kinds of work for which the organizers seek images include art, hobbies, crafts, gardening and general overall creativity.

The exhibit is part of the national recognition of Random Acts of Kindness Day, which is Feb. 17. The images submitted by staff will be printed on 5” x 7” card stock and after the launch, the cards will be distributed to high-traffic areas on campus, such as the dining commons and the Student Union, so that as many UMass community members as possible can enjoy them.

By centering UMass Amherst workers, Building Bridges has become an invaluable outlet for the university’s diverse populations to find community and express themselves.

Established in 2017, Building Bridges, a collaborative effort between The Partnership for Worker Education, Human Resources, Civic Engagement and Service-Learning and the Office of Equity and Inclusion, has served as a public art and engagement initiative on campus that fosters new connections among UMass students, faculty, staff and community members. Engagement in critical issues was the cornerstone of the Building Bridges formation and it has become an opportunity to become actively engaged, drawing on the power of solidarity and creative expression, bringing people together to build bridges across differences.

“I have really enjoyed the Building Bridges classes,” says Carol Landry, a second shift maintainer and longtime Building Bridges participant. Another participant expressed that being a part of Building Bridges gives them “the hopes and wishes to be a part of the art that comes from the community.”

To participate in the 2026 Random Acts of Kindness Through Art Campaign, complete this form and upload images by Friday, Jan. 16. A UMass account is necessary, and login is required for submissions.

Alternatively, images may also be sent by email to Nyari Changamire at [email protected]. Include the titles of the art, medium, original size of the piece, and your name in the email.