A new installation to be erected at Fishing Heritage Center today. Here's what we know.

NEW BEDFORD — The Seaport Historic District is about to get even more picturesque as a new landmark is set to be installed today, Aug. 23, at the Fishing Heritage Center.

The exhibition titled "Catch the Tradition" will feature an authentic fishing net draping across the entire facade of a historic building located at 38 Bethel St.

The installation will begin early in the morning and is expected to be completed by the end of the day. The eye-catching display will include seven massive documentary images, the largest being a whopping 17 feet tall.

Matt Moyer Bell, marketing specialist for the Fishing Heritage Center, played a critical role in bringing this project to life. As someone with a background in public art, he was drawn to the center's mission and saw an opportunity to increase its visibility and foot traffic.

"The fishing heritage center is in the perfect location, but tour buses would often roll right up and park in front of the door, without ever going inside," Bell said. "So, I was tasked with finding a way to draw attention to the center and make it a critical part of the New Bedford cultural experience for both visitors and locals."

Bell came up with the slogan "Catch the Tradition," which reflects the essence of the fishing heritage and the center's role in preserving and sharing it with the community. The installation spans the entire length of the center's exterior wall.

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"The wall is a lot more real estate than one small banner, and we needed something that would catch people's attention," Bell added.

"We want people to understand, just by standing outside the building, that there's a whole world to explore inside."

What to expect when visiting 'Catch the Tradition'

These images, captured by four emerging and established local photographers — Shareen Davis, Phil Mello, Leia Onofrey and Standard-Times photographer Peter Pereira — provide a glimpse into the lives of those who work tirelessly to bring seafood from boat to table.

The net and frames were designed and fabricated by Reidar’s Trawl Gear & Marine Supply, in collaboration with local creative producer Matt Moyer Bell who conceptualized the project.

"We are highlighting a very old but still thriving industry that is deeply rooted in our community," Bell said.

"People love to enjoy seafood, but many don't know the whole story behind it. The Fishing Heritage Center provides that missing piece of the puzzle, and we want to share it with everyone."

The project has received support from various organizations, including New Bedford Creative , a Storefront Improvement Grant from the City of New Bedford, and BayCoast Bank. Labor and materials for the net and frames were donated by Reidar’s Trawl Gear & Marine Supply, making this project possible.

September's AHA! Night to honor exhibit

An official unveiling and dedication of the installation will take place on Thursday, Sept. 12, during AHA Night at 6 p.m. The New Bedford Fishing Heritage Center is dedicated to preserving and sharing the story of the fishing community — past, present, and future.

"Catch the Tradition" serves as a striking reminder of the enduring legacy of New Bedford, the nation’s most valuable fishing port. It invites visitors to delve deeper into the story of commercial fishing, one of the world’s oldest industries, through the exhibitions and programs at the center.

"This is not just a piece of art; it's a landmark that represents the history and importance of the fishing industry in New Bedford," Bell added.

"We are excited to celebrate this new addition to our downtown seaport Historic District and invite everyone to come down and catch the tradition."

Standard-Times staff writer Seth Chitwood can be reached at schitwood@s-t.com . Find out more about him at sethchitwood.com . Support local journalism by purchasing a digital or print subscription to The Standard-Times today.

This article originally appeared on Standard-Times: A new installation to be erected at Fishing Heritage Center today. Here's what we know.