New Bedford Church Will Debut Projection Light Show

A New Bedford church is about to become the main attraction with a spectacular 3-D projection light show this December.

It'll be the first of its kind in the area and native artist Nelson Rapoza is excited to bring this art form to one of the most beautiful structures in the area, the St. Anthony of Padua Church in New Bedford's Near North End.

Rapoza said this art installation is "bringing something still to life right before your eyes."

The show is happening in collaboration with the historic church, New Bedford Creative, Explore New Bedford and the New Bedford TDI Partnership.

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So what exactly is 3-D projection mapping?

This type of art has been done around the world for years and transforms everyday structures into stunning works of art by projecting vibrant videos and images onto them.

In the case of this project, Rapoza will share the electrifying story of the of the phases of the church's conception, from black and white to big bursts of colors as he takes you down the church's century-plus history.

"I only first visited the church just over a year ago for the first time and here we are about to open a first of its kind (show) right here in New Bedford," he said.

"I'm very lucky to have such a beautiful canvas  for this project and the church has been so accommodating while I work into the late hours of the evening to get this piece of art together," Rapoza said.

The church is a landmark and has been part of the New Bedford skyline for over one hundred years. You can't miss it as it can be seen from Interstate 195 regardless of the direction in which you are traveling.

Rapoza is a multimedia artist for Broken Glass Projections, based out of Acushnet. This will be one of its biggest projects in terms of size and Broken Glass has released a teaser video.

You can grab tickets now for this event, which is taking place on December 7 at the St. Anthony of Padua Church on Acushnet Avenue in New Bedford.

A little personal side note, I grew up across the street from this church and have never actually been inside.