May 1, 2026 |Arts, Beyond Walls, News, Non-profits

Beyond Walls Names Susan Blomquist And Jonathan Berk To Its Governing Boards

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New members bring expertise in placemaking, architecture, and community-centered design to the nonprofit board.

From Beyond Walls: Beyond Walls has announced the appointment of Susan Blomquist to its Board of Directors and Jonathan Berk to its Advisory Coalition. Both bring extensive experience in placemaking, advocacy, architecture, and community-centered design, further strengthening the organization’s mission to activate public spaces and foster vibrant communities.

Since its founding in 2017, Beyond Walls has partnered with residents, businesses, volunteers, and local officials to deliver impactful public art installations across 18 communities, including all corners of Massachusetts, in Nashua, New Hampshire, and Miami, Florida. In addition to large-scale murals and designed response projects, Beyond Walls works in partnership with schools to develop curriculum through its Classrooms to the Streets initiative and with businesses through its Commissioned Services division.

With more than 20 years of experience, Susan Blomquist is an accomplished architect who has overseen the design of major facilities for some of the nation’s top hospitals. Her work is widely recognized for its thoughtful response to the psychological and emotional needs of patients, families, and care teams.

Blomquist is known for integrating LEAN design processes into her projects, an approach that focuses on maximizing value while minimizing the waste of time, money, space, and other resources. 

She is a Fellow of the American College of Healthcare Architects and has been a prominent voice in the field, speaking at key national and regional conferences. She serves on the Boston Society of Architects Board of Directors and as chair of the architectural design jury for the AIA Honor Awards and has held teaching positions at the University of Virginia and Boston Architectural College, mentoring the next generation of architects.

“Susan brings a unique background and perspective to Beyond Walls,” said Al Wilson, the organization’s Founder & CEO. “Her commitment to human-centered design and her experience creating welcoming spaces that support well-being and community connection will greatly enhance our work. She is a valued addition to the Board.”

Jonathan Berk is a nationally recognized urbanist and housing advocate focused on the ways that cities and towns are built, organized, experienced and enjoyed. He is the founder of re:MAIN, a planning and development advisory firm that partners with municipalities to unlock housing opportunities by addressing zoning, feasibility, and implementation challenges. His work centers on the evolution of housing plans from concept to viable projects, particularly in high-demand, walkable areas.

Previously, Berk served as Vice President at Patronicity, where he led statewide placemaking initiatives supporting hundreds of communities and helped raise millions of dollars for public space and development projects. He also founded Bench Consulting, the firm’s advisory arm, and launched Winter Places, an international initiative that activates outdoor spaces year-round.

Berk currently serves as Board Chair of Abundant Housing Massachusetts and as a member of the Salem Planning Board. He holds a law degree from New England Law I Boston and a bachelor’s degree from Quinnipiac University.

“We are excited to welcome Jonathan to the Beyond Walls Advisory Coalition,” said Wilson. “His deep understanding of placemaking, housing policy and zoning as well as community development aligns closely with our mission. Jonathan’s expertise will be invaluable as we continue expanding our reach and impact across Massachusetts, the New England region, and beyond.”

About Beyond Walls

Beyond Walls is a nonprofit that partners with communities to design, develop, and activate public spaces, galvanize residents, eliminate barriers to art, and support the cultural and economic vitality of neighborhoods across New England and beyond. Through large-scale public art, creative placemaking, and community-driven programming, Beyond Walls fosters connection, supports local businesses, and promotes visitation to urban areas that drive regional economies. 

About Beyond Walls Commissioned Services

In partnership with developers, property owners, and businesses, the Beyond Walls Commissioned Services program creates site-specific art installations that reflect the unique identity, culture, and goals of each project. This work not only enhances physical environments but also serves as a revenue stream that supports the organization’s broader mission.