BmoreArt

This Week: Perspectives hosted by JustRo, The Importance of Being Earnest at Center Stage, Invisible Architectures | Social Contracts opening reception at MAP, MICA ArtWalk + Exhibition, JHU CVA Student Exhibition reception, Station North Art Walk, Crosscurrence at Current, Fashion Prose 1 opening reception at Creative Alliance, Megan Lewis solo exhibition reception at Galerie Myrtis, and Alpha Female Fest and Crust by Mack presents: Taste and Turntables: My Mother’s Recipe Edition, — PLUS Sweaty Eyeballs Animation Festival call for submissions early bird deadline and more featured opportunities!

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< Events >

Perspectives
Tuesday, May 7 :: 5:30-7:30pm
@ 2700 Greenmount Avenue

Welcome to the second session of Perspectives!

Something that we hear often from fellow artists, is a yearning to have truly meaningful conversations about art creation and our relationship to the art industry. As artists in Baltimore, we have a unique opportunity to satisfy this need by joining forces and creating a space for us to build excellence together.

Perspectives is specifically created as a platform for artists to present their work to their peers for constructive feedback and growth. Studio 27 and JustRo came up with a model that we believe offers artists the opportunity to share, experiment, expand and thrive in the safety of a community intent on each other’s success. This is where iron sharpens iron.

We take inspiration from Charles White, one of the most well-known artists in African American art history. White was an artist who found joy in contributing to the growth of his contemporaries.

The Importance of Being Earnest
Thursday, May 9 | Ongoing through May 26
@ Baltimore Center Stage

This reimagined version of Oscar Wilde’s classic tells the witty and humorous story of Jack Worthing and Algernon Moncrief, who both create alter egos that supply an escape from the monotony of their lives. As the misunderstandings pile up and their stories unravel, eventually both men must come to terms with their true identities.

Invisible Architectures / Social Contracts | Opening Reception
Thursday, May 9 :: 6-9pm | Ongoing through June 29
@ Maryland Art Place

Maryland Art Place in collaboration with COFAC CoLab  Directors Dr. Kalima Young and Ada Pinkston, are excited to announce a call for submissions for “Invisible Architectures.” This exhibition explores the impact of geographic, economic, social, and institutional structures on personal relationships.

About Invisible Architectures:

As we approach another election year in the United States, agreements about what is included in an American social contract continue to be up for debate.The term social contract started when philosophers from France to England started to think about the nature of humanity and the tensions that exist between the people who enact power and the people who do not. What are the agreed upon boundaries that exist within our social, family and political structures? How do these boundaries create or negate cognitive distance with what actually happens in any social theater? Artistic interventions have the potential to offer us much needed insights and possibilities for our collective future.

MICA ArtWalk Opening and Exhibition 2024
Friday, May 10 | Ongoing through May 13
@ MICA

The Maryland Institute College of Art (MICA) is pleased to welcome the Baltimore community and beyond to campus for a chance to see the incredible works of art by MICA students in one of the largest displays of visual art in the city. The annual ArtWalk Commencement Exhibition will present over 2,400 unique artworks by nearly 400 graduating students in the undergraduate school across MICA’s campus.

Art lovers and collectors alike will have the opportunity to meet and talk with the emerging artists and to be the first in line to purchase the works. Pieces on view range from sculpture, painting, ceramics, animation, graphic design, illustration, garment design, printmaking, woodworking, fiber art, digital art, game design, assemblage/collage, photography, and film—a testament to the robust and diverse curriculum offered at MICA.

“We’re so proud of our 2024 graduates. It’s always thrilling to see how our students’ creativity transforms almost every inch of MICA’s campus during this annual showcase and celebration of their work,” said Dean of Undergraduate Studies Mina Cheon. “I can’t wait to see what they accomplish as they embark on professional careers.”

The weekend kicks off with the ArtWalk Opening on Friday, May 10, allowing attendees to meet with emerging young artists to discuss the art-making process for the works on view. It is also a wonderful opportunity to connect with family, friends, and neighbors at the most exciting party in town. The evening will feature delicious fare from Baltimore’s top food trucks including Bmore Greek Grill, Breaking the Borders Down, Kommie Pig, Kooper’s Chowhound, Lyfe Acai and Smoothie Bar, and Taharka Brothers. Beer, wine, and soda will also be sold at the three bars provided by Dooby’s in Cohen Plaza.

ArtWalk is free and open to the public from Friday, May 10 through Monday, May 13, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

JHU Center for Visual Arts Student Annual Exhibition 2024 | Reception
Friday, May 10 :: 3-6pm
@ Centre Theater at CVA

The Center for Visual Arts invites you to our Student Annual Exhibition 2024. – May 10th, 2024.

• Opening Reception 3:00 – 6:00 pm
• Refreshments served
• The Eugene Leake Awards for outstanding achievement in the arts will be presented at 4:30 pm

Center for Visual Arts
JHU MICA / CVA Film Centre, 3rd fl.
10 E. North Ave. Baltimore, MD 21202.

Second Friday Station North Art Walk
Friday, May 10 :: 5-9pm
@ Station North Arts District

Crosscurrence: Happy Accidents
Friday, May 10 :: 6pm
@ Current Space

Fashion Prose 1: Exhibition | Opening Reception
Friday, May 10 :: 6-9pm
@ Creative Alliance

Step into a world where fashion transcends mere fabric and thread, where every stitch tells a story, and every garment is a canvas of expression. The exhibition Fashion Prose 1 is a celebration of the artistry and language of style, exploring the intricate relationship between fashion, identity, and adornment.

Over a decade ago, a renowned fashion journalist observed the evolving landscape of fashion, noting its transformation from a niche passion to a global fascination and form of entertainment. Today, we invite you to witness this evolution firsthand as we showcase the work of artists who share a profound connection to the world of fashion and textiles.

Drawing inspiration from the past while embracing the innovations of the present, our diverse array of artists brings a fresh perspective to the realm of fashion and adornment. From the vibrant designs of Jasmin Ali Nessa’s NESSA fashion brand to the precise, dynamic compositions of Mikki’s graphic design background, each piece bursts with creativity and admiration for the art of dressing. Jay Sanborn, seamlessly blends traditional fiber craft techniques with contemporary materials to delve into themes of labor, queer aesthetics, and the complexity of the human form.

Join us on a journey through the rich tapestry of fashion and adornment, where every garment is a testament to the power of self-expression and the boundless creativity of the human spirit. Whether you’re a fashion enthusiast, an art aficionado, or simply curious about the language of style, “Fashion Prose 1” promises to captivate and inspire.

Artist Bios

Baltimore native Ajee Hassan, is a multi-disciplinary Beauty Artisan. Using the art of hair as her medium, her work is at the intersection of beauty and wellness. With extensive training in color application, cutting techniques, and skin-enhancing services, her aim is to empower individuals to step into their greatness—building their confidence and self-esteem through personalized styling education and self-care strategies. As an artist with a meticulous eye for cultivating beauty and overall wellness, she founded Diverse Methodology—an artistry platform dedicated to amplifying her creative expression through the transformative power of beautification, with healing through art at its core.

Mikki Keller is a native of Baltimore City, a graphic designer, and artist. Mikki spent her earliest years watching her mother draw and always wanted to be an artist herself. She attended the Art Institute of Philadelphia, where she studied graphics and fine art. Specializing in drawing and painting figures and faces in charcoal, pastels, and acrylics on paper and canvas, her love of art, that she learned from her mother, has not diminished.

Jay Sanborn is a fiber artist, fashion designer, art handler, and occasional writer based in Baltimore, MD. Their recent works include Fiend, an experimental line of garments for transmasculine people. They received a BFA from the Maryland Institute College of Art, and quickly began to learn the art and science of garment making and incorporating those techniques into their sculptural work. Outside of their studio, Jay can be found at the park with their dog, hanging out at one of Baltimore’s iconic dive bars, or watching horror movies.

SWANN is an East Baltimore native, self-taught fashion sketch artist who is mostly influenced by art, literature, and fashion designers such as Gianni Versace, Karl Lagerfeld, Franco Moschino, Patrick Kelly, and Elsa Schiaparelli. In the same ways of Schiaparelli, Swann is working to establish a career as a ‘fashion artist’, a fashion designer and a visual artist that intertwines both ways of creating looks. Her artistic experience consists of volunteering, exhibiting, and learning at institutions such as Gallery CA, City Hall Art Gallery, Baltimore City Community College, School 33, Art with a Heart, Montgomery Park Gallery, Pride Center of Maryland, Amassi Center of Maryland, Artscape, Black Arts District, MaxGallery and Baltimore School for the Arts.

Megan Lewis: Moon in Scorpio | Opening Reception
Saturday, May 11 :: 2-6pm
@ Galerie Myrtis

Galerie Myrtis proudly presents “Moon in Scorpio,” the inaugural solo exhibition by acclaimed artist Megan Lewis. The opening reception will be held at Galerie Myrtis, 2224 North Charles Street, Baltimore, Maryland on Saturday, May 11th from 2:00 ‐ 6:00 pm. The opening is free, and all are welcome. No appointment is necessary to attend.

“Through a collection of emotive paintings, Lewis masterfully unveils a rich tapestry of Black male identity, drawn from the vibrant tapestry of the Baltimore community. Each brushstroke brings forth subjects who defy one-dimensional portrayals, inviting viewers to engage with the complexities and nuances of their experiences.

‘Moon in Scorpio’ serves as a platform for Lewis to challenge and reframe negative tropes associated with Black masculinity. With a keen eye for detail and a deep empathy for her subjects, she confronts stereotypes head-on, presenting multifaceted portrayals that transcend superficial labels. The exhibition compels viewers to move beyond preconceived notions and engage in a dialogue that celebrates the diversity and resilience of Black men.

Lewis’s work is a testament to the power of art to inspire introspection and empathy. Through her evocative paintings, she invites us to reconsider our perceptions of Black masculinity and to recognize the humanity and complexity of each individual.” – Dr. Myrtis Bedolla, Curator

Programming includes the Artist Talk on Saturday, July 20th from 2:00 – 4:00 pm featuring Megan Lewis in dialogue with Dr. Myrtis Bedolla. Through her art, Lewis challenges viewers to examine their biases and assumptions, fostering a deeper conversation about the complexities of the human experience. Don’t miss the opportunity to witness the transformative impact of Megan Lewis’s work and contribute to the dialogue on Black masculinity in today’s society. The artist’s talk is free and open to the public. Seating is limited. RSVP is required to attend (registration details to be announced).

The exhibit runs from May 11 – July 20, 2024. Gallery hours: Wednesday – Saturday from 2:00 – 6:00 pm by appointment. Hours are extended during special events. For additional information on this exhibition, please contact the gallery at (410) 235‐3711 or Ky Vassor, Gallery Manager, at [email protected]. For sales inquiries, please contact our Sales Manager, Noel Bedolla, at [email protected].

Taste & Turntables: ‘My Mother’s Recipe’
Sunday, May 12 :: 5:30pm
@ 201 E. Pratt Street #2075

** 15% off  for BmoreArt readers using the code BMOREART **

Alpha Female Fest and Crust by Mack presents: Taste and Turntables: My Mother’s Recipe Edition

A Celebration of Legacy, Sound and Culinary Art!

“Taste and Turntables” is a one-of-a-kind experience, powered by Wvrdrobe, where local Chefs collaborate with Masters of Sound to evoke a sensory journey merging sound and taste. For this special Mother’s Day edition, we are focusing on the cherished tradition of family recipes passed down through generations, paying homage to the culinary legacies of mothers everywhere.

Featuring

Live Band

3-Courses

Cash Bar with Signature Drinks/Mocktails

• Interactive Elements

This event is powered by Wvrdrobe.

We are excited to be the first community focused event as an installation of Crust by Mack’s community engagement efforts.

Sponsored by The Alpha Female Fest, Crust by Mack, and Baltimore Creative Acceleration Network.

We strongly encourage men to come celebrate the women they love. All are welcome to enjoy!

< Calls for Entry >

Fall/Winter 2024-2025 Keyholder Residency
deadline May 22
posted by Pyramid Atlantic Arts Center

Pyramid Atlantic Art Center’s Keyholder Residency is a competitive opportunity for emerging to mid-career artists who want to have unlimited access to the studios in exchange for working 8 hours a week for Pyramid Atlantic. The residency is awarded to artists who hope to gain more knowledge and improve their skills in the printmaking, papermaking, or book arts studios. Two artists are selected twice a year by the Pyramid Atlantic artistic staff. Keyholders work in a productive community atmosphere alongside other artists and are expected to abide by all studio policies. Housing is not provided, although, upon acceptance, artists will receive information on opportunities of nearby housing.

Call for Art! “The History of a Hand”
deadline May 24
posted by Stamp Gallery UMD

The History of a Hand seeks to explore the profound impact of human actions and interactions on individual lives and the broader world. This exhibition explores how seemingly mundane or everyday actions can leave a lasting imprint on our perceptions, relationships, and the fabric of society itself. Each artwork featured in the exhibition will serve as a testament to the intricate narrative of human experience, inviting viewers to reflect on their own roles in shaping the world around them. All media will be considered for inclusion. The History of a Hand is part of a series of student-curated exhibitions.

Artists may submit multiple artworks. Please submit one form per artwork here by May 24, 2024.

Accepted artists will be responsible for delivering their artwork to the Gallery (Adele H. Stamp Student Union, 3972 Campus Drive College Park, MD 20742) between June 24-28 and for retrieving their artwork after the exhibition closes. The exhibition will be open from July 12 – August 16, 2024, with an opening reception on July 12 from 6-8pm.

DC Art Bank Collection Call for Works
deadline May 28

In support of local visual artists, District art galleries, and art nonprofit organizations, CAH acquires fine art. The ongoing and annual acquisition of art from metropolitan artists becomes a part of the Art Bank Collection. CAH manages artwork in the collection. It is then loaned to District Government agencies for display in public areas and offices of government buildings. The Art Bank Collection, which started in 1986, has nearly 3,000 artworks. The Commission on the Arts and Humanities (CAH) requests applications from qualified artists and District nonprofit art galleries or organizations for its Fiscal Year 2025 Art Bank Program. Award amounts vary but eligible individual applicants may be awarded up to $15,000 and nonprofit art galleries or organizational applicants may be awarded up to $20,000.

Sweaty Eyeballs Animation Festival
deadline May 31 (early bird)

Sweaty Eyeballs Animation Festival (SEAF) celebrates the world’s most boundary-pushing, mind-blowing animation. This annual festival is focused on supporting unique, experimental and diverse voices in the field of animation, with a lean toward off-the-wall humor and energy.

SEAF returns October 18-20, 2024!
We remain dedicated to the search for innovative storytelling and craft, and we are working to create meaningful connections across geographic and stylistic divides. The festival is fully In-Person in 2024 with screenings at a variety of theatre venues in Baltimore, Maryland USA.

SCREENINGS FOR 2024
This year the festival will include multiple programs of International animated short films, a Baltimore Showcase, a Young Audiences program, animator retrospectives, special screenings of independent feature films, workshops and more.
For the Baltimore Showcase, submissions must be a film produced within 50 miles of Baltimore City to qualify.

WHAT DO WE LOOK FOR?
SEAF accepts animated shorts (under 20 minutes). DO NOT SUBMIT LIVE-ACTION FILMS. We look for contemporary animated work from across the globe which best highlights the expressive potential of the medium, and pushes limits of what animation means. We are looking for work that is appropriate for any age range and there is a special category for young audiences animation (ages 5-12).

WHO ARE WE?
Sweaty Eyeballs began in 2012 as the brainchild of animator and Towson University professor Phil Davis as a way to bring unique voices in international and independent animation to Baltimore audiences. The festival was a single night invitational screening from 2012-2018 with a diverse array of animated narrative, documentary, music video, and experimental work pushing the boundaries of art, craft, and technology. In 2017 the programming of Sweaty Eyeballs expanded to include a monthly animation screening series in collaboration with the Maryland Film Festival and the SNF Parkway Theatre, and in 2019, our first full festival was held, with roaring success.

Apply to the 2024 Charm City Fringe Festival
deadline May 31

Virtually any type of performance art is welcome to apply. We particularly encourage original works and innovative adaptations. Categories include: drama, comedy, burlesque, cabaret, circus arts, dance, improv, interdisciplinary, multimedia, musical theater, poetry, puppetry, storytelling, sideshow, spoken word, variety, and other creative madness. There is a $35 application fee.

Artist in Residence Proposals
deadline May 31
posted by Enoch Pratt FREE Library

The Enoch Pratt Free Library Artist in Residence (AIR) program is an opportunity for the selected visual artist to work as an independent contractor developing a new body of artwork or to further develop projects already in existence. The Artist in Residence program aims to enhance the artistic and cultural life of Maryland by connecting established and emerging artists with Library resources and tools, creating meaningful connections with Library patrons, and contributing unique perspectives to our ever-evolving and growing community.

Program Goals:

• Foster an inclusive and diverse space: Create opportunities for Library patrons to interact with creative professionals from various disciplines, promoting equity and inclusivity.

• Enhance creative growth and exploration: Cultivate a thriving arts scene in Baltimore by encouraging artists to explore and contribute to the city’s cultural landscape.

• Facilitate meaningful collaborations: Offer a platform for the community to engage with arts professionals.

• Enrich creative learning: Provide access to resources and services that support Library patrons in their creative learning and exploration.

• Bridge the gap between art and community: Establish connections between creative professionals and the Library community.

isms: Narratives, Issues, and Difficult Topics of Our Time
deadline May 31
posted by Baltimore Clayworks

Notification of Acceptance: by Friday, June 28, 2024
Work Due in the Gallery: Friday, August 30, 2024

This national juried exhibition will showcase ceramic artists that use the human form as a vehicle to communicate and bring awareness to the often-difficult topics and issues of our time. The ideologies of “isms” are vast and can include, but not limited to socio-political, environmental and cultural issues, racism, religious freedom, war, sexism, gender identity, classism, poverty, substance abuse, gun violence, etc.

Jurors: Kelly and Kyle Phelps

Identical twin brothers Kelly and Kyle Phelps are Professors at private Catholic universities in Ohio. Kelly Phelps is a Professor at Xavier University (Cincinnati), and Kyle is a Professor at the University of Dayton (Dayton) where they head the sculpture and ceramic departments.

2024 Charm City Fringe Festival
deadline May 31

Early Bird Artist Application
Applications for Baltimore’s fringe festival, September 26 – October 6, can be found at charmcityfringe.com. Apply today and please share this email with other artists and friends!

We’re back for 2024! The Festival takes place September 26th – October 6th in downtown Baltimore. Below, please find information on this year’s festival, artist applications, and complete the three simple steps to apply to produce this year at the Charm City Fringe Fest.

We look forward to having you at Maryland’s largest Fringe theatre and arts festival.

“Somewhere” | Call for Artists
deadline May 31
posted by LoosenArt

he theme of our online exhibition – and for which it sees the paper release of its catalog – refers to those indefinite places and contexts, fantastic places in which to get lost, places of escape from reality where freedom is experienced by rediscovering that sense of union and harmonious cohesion with the environment. Places that reveal the personal perception of the world and the authentic emotional experience, where the “self” is transported by osmosis into a timeless and “placeless” space.

The call is aimed to artists, photographers, video makers and visual digital designers, open to any style, genre and subject.

The Jonathan and Barbara Silver Foundation Grant for Writing on Sculpture
deadline May 31

This grant from the Jonathan and Barbara Silver Foundation encourages and supports sculptors, whether emerging or established, and writers about sculpture. In 2024 the Foundation will award a $20,000 grant to a writer who demonstrates fresh thinking on the history, aesthetics, and/or purposes of sculpture.