When I noticed that Current space was hosting a members-only cocktail party, I signed up for an annual membership immediately. I couldn’t even attend that party, but I wanted to throw some support behind an organization that I have long admired for quietly doing the work of community building within the arts in Baltimore. Current has been an artist-run collective and supported artists’ careers for over a decade. Now that they own their building on Howard Street, it’s that much more important that this organization stay afloat. Plus, I kept seeing these gorgeous purple-lit photos of concerts and events in the backyard full of lush tropical plants and perfect yet un-fussy landscaping that begged for socializing and photos.
Current has created the perfect environment for outdoor, Covid-responsible parties, and I hope this practice lasts into the colder months, too. Last week I finally got to attend a members event and I’m so glad. The weather was crisp “sweater weather” and a cocktail party was a distinct challenge to get dressed, and not in sweat pants. I wanted to see beautiful photos of beautiful people under those glowing purple lights, drinking cute cocktails and being out in the world, a reflection of how we used to get together in the days before a pandemic.
Photographer Elena Volkova joined me for the evening with a camera and some remote flashes and we had a great time seeing old friends and making new ones, but also posing guests in mini photoshoots under giant banana leaves and vines and twinkling lights. I hope you enjoy these photos of just a few of Current’s new members and decide to become one too. In Baltimore, we have to support the good things when we have the chance to and then show up, wearing the cute shoes.
I caught up with Current co-directors Julianne Hamilton and Michael Benevento to ask more about Current’s outdoor adventures in music, art, fashion, and community building.