BmoreArt

This week’s news includes:  Goya Contemporary welcomed to ADAA, Guerilla Girls exhibition at NMWA, Nas performs ‘Illmatic’ with BSO, Fitsum Shebshe curates and online NADA show, Devin Allen and two new earth-based exhibitions at the BMA, John Waters news, Trans History Project at Center Stage, Everyman’s 2025/26 season, Astral Ground and Submersive Productions collaborative project, Jonathan Schwartz and the Lyric, Wordsmith receives Strathmore songwriting award, NGA announces new sharing initiative, Trump’s Kennedy Center takeover, Art of Racing winner announce, Baltimore Old Time Fest is back, and Baltimore Vacants Reinvestment Initiative — with reporting from Baltimore Magazine, Baltimore Fishbowl, The Baltimore Banner, and other local and independent news sources.

Header Image: @terriblemap IG

The Art Dealers Association of America welcomes GOYA CONTEMPORARY GALLERY among twelve new member galleries
Press Release :: April 3

The Art Dealers Association of America (ADAA) is pleased to announce the addition of 12 distinguished galleries to its network of the nation’s leading fine art galleries: Adams and Ollman (Portland), Piero Atchugarry Gallery (Miami), Alexander Berggruen (New York), Luis De Jesus Los Angeles (Los Angeles), Goya Contemporary Gallery (Baltimore), Nicodim (New York, Los Angeles), Night Gallery (Los Angeles), John Szoke Gallery (New York), Hollis Taggart (New York), The Pit (Los Angeles), Universal Limited Art Editions (New York), Welancora Gallery (New York).

Expanding the ADAA’s reach across multiple regions, these 12 exceptional galleries— representing one of the most geographically diverse new member cohorts to date—join the ranks of over 200 member galleries spanning nearly 40 cities. Each new member dealer reflects the ADAA’s dedication to promoting the highest standards of connoisseurship, scholarship, and ethical practice within the fine arts, as admission follows a rigorous evaluation of their programmatic and business history, ensuring that every new member exemplifies the best of the U.S. art market. In turn, the ADAA supports these institutions with vital resources to navigate the evolving art market via technological, business, and legal guidance.

ADAA Executive Director, Kinsey Robb comments: “We are thrilled to welcome this year’s cohort of new members, each of whom is renowned for their exhibition programs and dedication to community, innovation, and scholarship. As we expand our membership with distinguished industry leaders, we are fortifying the ADAA’s collective expertise and broadening our network of knowledge. These new collaborations will empower us to tackle emerging challenges together and contribute to the long-term health of the U.S. art sector. We are eager to engage with the unique insights and perspectives our new members bring and to work collectively toward creating meaningful impact and fostering growth in support of an industry we are all deeply committed to.”

After being nominated by an existing member, each candidate undergoes an extensive application and vetting procedure to ensure alignment with the ADAA’s commitment to industry best practices. To be admitted, candidates must demonstrate a record of accomplishment, and have made significant contributions to the art community. Following a vote by the full membership, candidates are admitted pending final approval from the ADAA’s Board.

Goya Contemporary Gallery says: “We are thrilled to share this exciting news with our community and colleagues! This marks a significant milestone in our history and is a testament to the excellence of the artists we proudly represent. We are deeply honored to be the only gallery in Maryland to receive this prestigious recognition.  Our heartfelt thanks go to the talented artists we work with, our dedicated team, and our loyal supporters, including our colleagues, devotees, and collectors. We are excited to celebrate this momentous achievement alongside the twelve other galleries from across the country who have been inducted this year, and who uphold the highest ethical standards that we also uphold.  Thank you for being part of this remarkable journey!”

“What makes ADAA membership truly special is the opportunity to connect with and be supported by a network of remarkable peers. Admission is confirmed by all member galleries, making this process one by which we come together to assess the state of the field,” says Cristin Tierney, ADAA Membership Committee Chair. “These new members represent artists that exemplify the pinnacle of historic, post-war, contemporary, and emerging art from across the world. We are excited to welcome them and eagerly anticipate what is to come.”

ADAA Board President, Susan Sheehan adds: “This new member class represents a remarkable depth of expertise, influencing both regional and global art conversations while cultivating meaningful connections among artists, collectors, and communities. We’re thrilled to see our membership grow and to collaborate with these influential voices, who are among the leading forces in the market.”

For more information, please contact [email protected].

How Guerrilla Girls Are Celebrating Four Decades of Art World Disruption
by Sarah Cascone
Published April 1 in Artnet News

Excerpt: In 1985, a group of anonymous women artists came together under the moniker the Guerrilla Girls, taking the art world to task for its abominable representation—or rather, the lack thereof—of women artists, Black artists, and other minority groups. Their bold posters laid bare the systemic inequities of the art world with sharp humor, backed up by well-researched statistics. That was 40 years ago.

“It’s really hard to believe. We literally had the idea to put a couple of posters up on the streets of New York, and all hell broke loose,” founding Guerrilla Girl Käthe Kollwitz told me. (The members all go by the names of deceased women artists.)

The collective’s long history of holding the art world accountable and exposing its discrimination in race, gender, and class is being rightly celebrated in this anniversary year. A major New York moment includes not one but two gallery shows, at Hannah Traore Gallery (which closed over the weekend) and Mary Ryan Gallery. And later this month, the National Museum of Women in the Arts (NMWA) in Washington, D.C., the world’s first museum dedicated exclusively to women artists, is staging a major solo show of its Guerrilla Girl holdings. (There’s also a show right now at the National Gallery in Sofia, Bulgaria.)

Nas, BSO to take trip down memory lane with live ‘Illmatic’ performance
by Wesley Case
Published April 7 in The Baltimore Banner

In 1994, Nas released “Illmatic,” the New York rapper’s anticipated debut album. Nearly 31 years later, it is still widely celebrated as one of the genre’s greatest albums of all time.

This summer, Nas will team up with the Baltimore Symphony Orchestra to put a new spin on the record. The concert will take place at the Joseph Meyerhoff Symphony Hall (1212 Cathedral St.) on July 23, the BSO announced. Tickets are on sale now, and range from $75 to $299 (before a service fee).

The collaboration will feature “new, full orchestral arrangements” of the 10-track album, per the BSO’s social media posts.

“Welcoming Nas to perform alongside the BSO will be a highlight of the year,” Mark Hanson, the BSO’s president and CEO, said in a statement. “This collaboration speaks to our commitment to breaking boundaries and creating a space where all audiences feel connected to the power of live orchestral music. It is an honor to bring this iconic album to life in a new way and shine a spotlight on our musicians’ incredible range and talent.”

Nas, who’s been nominated for 17 Grammys and won the ceremony’s Best Rap Album award in 2021 for “King’s Disease,” is no stranger to performing in Baltimore. More recently, he and Mary J. Blige brought their “Royalty” tour to then-Royal Farms Arena in August 2019. Nas also celebrated the 20th anniversary of “Illmatic” as a co-headliner at Preakness InfieldFest, alongside Lorde.

Last year, the 51-year-old MC performed with the National Symphony Orchestra at Wolf Trap in Vienna, Virginia. This go-round, Nas will also perform with the Boston Pops on June 27, the Chicago Philharmonic on July 2 and the Philadelphia Orchestra on July 25.

”Illmatic,” which includes songs such as “N.Y. State of Mind” and ”The World is Yours,” was inducted into the National Recording Registry of the Library of Congress for preservation in 2021 due to its ”power to influence entire genres of music.”

This story was republished with permission from The Baltimore Banner. Visit www.thebaltimorebanner.com for more.

Tickets are $75 – $299 and are available now via the BSO website or at the Meyerhoff box office.

EVENT DETAILS:
Nas Illmatic Live with the Baltimore Symphony Orchestra

NADA Curated As it Unfolds by Fitsum Shebeshe
Online Exhibition | Ongoing through April 15
Published in New Art Dealers Alliance

March 13 – April 15, 2025

As It Unfolds explores human transformation as a continuous and evolving process shaped by the interplay of time, memory, and experience. This exhibition brings together a diverse group of artists whose works delve into the multifaceted processes of becoming—whether personal, collective, or imagined—manifesting through various narratives and forms. Rather than presenting change as a fixed state or linear progression, it considers transformation an open-ended continuum, influenced by historical contexts, possibilities, and inherent uncertainties. Thus, transformation is perceived not as a final destination but as a dynamic interplay of emergence, dissolution, and renewal.

Through mediums such as painting, photography, sculpture, and digital media, the participating artists investigate the nuanced boundaries between permanence and impermanence. Some engage with archival materials and historical narratives, illustrating how the past resonates within the present and informs speculative futures. Others employ abstraction, utilizing texture, repetition, and fragmentation to convey the fluidity of time and the ephemeral nature of existence. Each piece offers a distinct perspective on transformation, highlighting deeply personal aspects while connecting to broader cultural and historical contexts.

As It Unfolds navigates the liminal space where past and future converge, presence and absence intertwine, and the familiar transitions into the unknown. Reflecting on transformation as a continuous, evolving process, the exhibition fosters an ongoing dialogue that extends into the broader spectrum of everyday life.

See also:

Art AND: Fitsum Shebeshe
Words by Suzy Kopf, Photography by Justin Tsucalas
Published February 15, 2023 in Bmoreart.com and in Issue 14: Environment

BMA Presents Heavy with History: Devin Allen and the Baltimore Uprising
Press Release :: April 9

On April 16, the Baltimore Museum of Art (BMA) will present a focus exhibition of 35 rarely shown photographs by Baltimore-based artist Devin Allen. Heavy with History: Devin Allen and the Baltimore Uprising documents a defining moment in the city’s history by capturing the raw emotion of the protests that followed Freddie Gray’s untimely death in 2015. Organized by Lisa Snowden-McCray, Editor-in-Chief and co-founder of Baltimore Beat, this exhibition of powerful black-and-white images capture impassioned protestors, joyful children, wary police officers, and a collective righteous anger, pain, and advocacy for a different future. The exhibition also includes a soundscape featuring voices of the Baltimore Uprising for visitors to listen to while they are in the gallery. The exhibition is on view through June 22, 2025.

“Devin Allen’s photographs are evocative, poignant, and magnetic. They draw you into a critical moment in time, reflecting a raw and shared humanity,” said Asma Naeem, the BMA’s Dorothy Wagner Wallis Director. “We are honored to collaborate with Lisa Snowden-McCray to present these significant works as we remember Freddie Gray and the Baltimore Uprising and to capture the resilience and beauty of our city in the face of incredible sadness and trauma. Heavy with History is part of our institutional commitment to platform the voices of our community, and we look forward to inviting people into the museum to experience the exhibition.”

Additional Freddie Gray/Baltimore Uprising commemorations include a special issue of Baltimore Beat on April 9; Freddie Gray & The Baltimore Uprising:10 Years Later Reflecting, Reckoning, and Rebuilding at the Reginald F. Lewis Museum of Maryland African-American History and Culture on April 10-11; In the Wake of: Resilience and Revolution, an exhibition of photography by Paul Abowd, Devin Allen, and Joseph (J.M.) Giordano on view at the Creative Alliance through April 19; and the world premiere of the Baltimore Legacy Project documentary Baltimore Still Rising at the Senator Theater on April 24. […]

BMA to Open Two Exhibitions Celebrating the Earth
Press Release :: April 3

On April 6, the Baltimore Museum of Art (BMA) will open a focus exhibition exploring the relationship between artistic production and the natural world. Throughout history and into the present day, natural resources—whether mineral, plant, or animal—have been used to create art. With Earth as Medium: Extracting Art from Nature, the BMA considers the inextricable connections between art and nature and the ways in which artistic practices have been implicated in the exploitation of the earth. It also highlights how artists are, through careful selection of natural materials, providing environmental care in the act of artmaking. The exhibition will remain on view through August 17, 2025, and is presented as part of the BMA’s ongoing Turn Again to the Earth initiative, which explores the relationships between art and the environment across time and geography.

Earth as Medium features 19 objects produced between the 14th and 21st centuries and spanning cultures from across the globe to chart material histories. Mined materials are represented by a Tray (c. 1725-1750) from the Potosí silver mines in present-day Bolivia; Pinnacles, Alabama Hills, Owens Valley, California (1945/1970), a gelatin silver photograph of the location of Kodak’s silver mines by Ansel Adams; and Boy with Curly Hair (1946), a copper plate by Henri Matisse on display for the first time at the BMA. Animal examples include a Tusk Carved in Relief (late 19th century) by a Kongolese Vili group artist showing first-hand experiences of elephant harvesting that is juxtaposed with The Elephant Hunt (1582), an engraving with a dramatized scene of ivory hunting attributed to Adriaen Collaert. Plants and trees as sources are emphasized by a hanging Samoan Tapa Cloth (1930s-1950) crafted from bark and decorated with pigment and a Basket (c. 1993) by Lucille Lossiah (Eastern Band Cherokee) woven from oak twigs and dyed with walnut and bloodroot gathered in the Qualla Boundary, North Carolina.

Throughout the exhibition, particular attention is paid to the ways that natural resources are infused into every part of artmaking. While many of the processes have led to pollution, the destruction or disruption of habitats, and overconsumption, some artists have committed to sustainable production, including previously Baltimore-based artist Linda Bills, whose work Basket (1981) is made from naturally felled wood gathered in local Druid Hill Park and from her garden.

“When institutions discuss art, they predominantly focus on the human hand, whether as an exploration of the technical process of making or the vision underlying the work. The origins of materials and the importance of nature to the creative process is often left out of the interpretation,” said Brittany Luberda, BMA Anne Stone Associate Curator of Decorative Arts. “In this exhibition, we ask visitors to look past an artwork’s image back to the earthly beginnings of artmaking. Earth as Medium is an opportunity to reflect on the role that art does and can play within considerations of our impact on and care for the environment.”

The exhibition is co-curated by Brittany Luberda, BMA Anne Stone Associate Curator of Decorative Arts, and Kevin Tervala, BMA Eddie C. and C. Sylvia Brown Chief Curator.

Turn Again to the Earth is a series of major initiatives at the BMA that model commitments to environmental sustainability and foster discourse on climate change and the role of the museum. Unfolding throughout 2025, the interrelated efforts include a series of exhibitions and public programs that capture the relationships between art and the environment across time and geography; an evaluation of internal BMA practices for environmental impacts and the creation of a sustainability plan for the museum; and a citywide eco-challenge that invites Baltimore and regional partners to engage in environment-related conversations and enact their own plans for a more sustainable future. Following months of climate-driven protests at museums across the U.S. and abroad, the BMA’s environmental initiatives offer opportunities for more productive dialogues and actions within the museum context. As the museum celebrates its 110th anniversary, it is fitting that it considers its future in part through the lens of this critical subject. The title for the series of initiatives is inspired by the writing of environmental activist Rachel Carson, who spent most of her life and career in Maryland.

This initiative is generously supported by the Cohen Opportunity Fund, Baltimore Gas and Electric, Johns Hopkins University & Medicine, the Eileen Harris Norton Foundation, and CareFirst BlueCross BlueShield.

Baltimore native John Waters defends his hometown on national TV: ‘I think it’s super great!’
by Ed Gunts
Published April 3 in Baltimore Fishbowl

Excerpt: Is Baltimore better or worse than Detroit?

That’s one of the questions debated before a national television audience on Wednesday night during a live panel discussion on Netflix.

Fortunately for Baltimore, native son and current resident John Waters was on the panel to defend his hometown and point out some of its positive attributes. He turned out to be Baltimore’s fiercest champion, calling it “the coolest city” and “super great.”

See also:

Baltimore royalty John Waters and Stavros Halkias finally meet, thanks to John Mulaney
by Wesley Case
Published April 3 in The Baltimore Banner

Three familiar faces from John Waters movies – Divine, Ricki Lake and Mink Stole – are still making news in 2025
by Ed Gunts
Published April 7 in Baltimore Fishbowl

Announcing The Trans History Project – a groundbreaking new play initiative!
Newsletter :: April 9

Trans and Gender Nonconforming People have always Existed Across all cultures. Now we tell our stories.

The Trans History Project is a revolutionary national initiative. Created by Bo Frazier, Baltimore Center Stage’s Artist-in-Residence, and led by Baltimore Center Stage and Breaking the Binary Theatre, this project aims to commission, develop, and publish 10 new plays about the real history of gender non-conformity which has existed across all cultures since the beginning of time. There will be 10 Trans and Gender Nonconforming playwrights (TGNC) commissioned by BCS who will subsequently be placed into 2-year development residencies at theaters across the country in 2 cohorts. Cohort 1 will begin Fall 2025 and Cohort 2 will begin Fall 2026.

MISSION:

• Tell the history of Transgender and Gender Nonconforming people across all cultures who have existed since the beginning of time
• Commission and pay 10 TGNC playwrights/creators/writers
• Create a cohort of theaters to develop and program TGNC stories in their seasons
• We hope to publish a TGNC canon/anthology of the 10 plays
• Enable Regional Theaters to engage, uplift and empower their local TGNC Communities

SUMMARY:
TGNC people have existed since the beginning of time across all cultures, yet we never learned this in our history classes. In an effort to teach the world our TGNC history and build a “Trans Canon,”  Baltimore Center Stage is partnering with other forward-thinking theatrical institutions across the country to commission, workshop (and hopefully publish and produce) 10 new plays by 10 TGNC writers of differing cultures, allowing them to tell stories of TGNC folks from history/folklore and how it relates to the aggressive legislative attacks seeking to “eradicate” our community from society. Cohort 1 will begin a 2-year residency at a major theatre in the 2025/26 season with Cohort 2 beginning the following 2026/27 season. Starting in 2026, the writers, dramaturgs and artists will come together for an Annual Summer Convening hosted by Baltimore Center Stage.

Everyman Theatre Celebrates 35 Years of being “Built in Baltimore” with its 2025/2026 Season
Press Release :: April 8

Everyman is proud to announce its 2025/2026 season, a six-show lineup featuring its 18-member ensemble of resident actors in productions that embody the company’s three-decade legacy of building incredible theatre in the city of Baltimore.

In a season that reflects a careful curation process by Everyman’s Artistic Team, at an organization that prides itself on delivering Great Stories, Well Told, long-time patrons of the theatre will recognize Everyman’s proven formula: a combination of great plays chosen for their diversity in style and subject matter that all contain exceptional storytelling and artistic merit. The lineup ranges from inventive new plays and modern masterpieces to internationally acclaimed contemporary works and timeless classics in the American canon.

“Everyman is known nationwide for being a professional equity theatre company that celebrates the actor and features a Resident Company of Artists,” says Founding Artistic Director Vincent M. Lancisi. “And as we head into our 35th year, I’m proud that Everyman has not only been recognized as one of the premier theatres on the East Coast, but that we’ve been able to contribute to one of the most vibrant arts and theatre communities in the country.” 

“We take great pride in being able to create opportunities to sustain artists that are local to the Baltimore/Washington D. C. area,” adds Managing Director Marissa LaRose. “Only a handful of theatres nationwide can boast that they feature an ensemble of professional actors like ours, while also being driven to ensure all theatre and educational arts programming continues to be accessible to everyone in the community.”<

Everyman Theatre’s 2025/2026 Season Lineup

Everyman’s 2025/2026 season opens with the American classic and Pulitzer Prize-winning masterpiece, August Wilson’s The Piano Lesson, presented as part of The Baltimore August Wilson Celebration. Set in 1930s Pittsburgh, the play weaves history and spirituality together in a haunting narrative that explores the conflict between protecting one’s heritage and forging a path into the future. It will be directed by Everyman’s Associate Artistic Director and Resident Company Member, Paige Hernandez (Dinner and Cake, Flyin’ West), and runs August 31-September 28.

Next is the internationally acclaimed comedy, ‘Art’, by Yasmina Reza. Produced in more than 45 countries and translated into over 30 languages, this Tony Award-winning modern classic is a razor-sharp, provocative comedy set in modern-day Paris that tackles the complexities of friendship and the subjective nature of art, loyalty, and taste. It will be directed by Everyman’s Associate Artistic Director, Noah Himmelstein (And Then There Were None, A Midsummer Night’s Dream), and runs October 19-November 16. 

Continuing its annual tradition of staging a mystery during the holidays, Everyman invites you to embrace the madness with a gaslight of a thriller: Deceived – a gripping new adaptation by Johnna Wright and Patty Jamieson, based on the famous psychological play Gaslight by Patrick Hamilton. This play will be directed by Lancisi (Edward Albee’s Who’s Afraid of Virginia Woolf? Dial M for Murder) and runs November 30-January 4.

The second half of the season begins with the world premiere of Dawn, written by Everyman’s Associate Artistic Director and Resident Company Member Tuyết Thị Phạm – author of the acclaimed Dinner and Cake. Recognized for her powerful writing on the topics of family, culture and identity, this new play tells the story of a mother and daughter who confront their legacy of love and loss as they navigate their differing beliefs as survivors of the Khmer Rouge in the late 1970s. It will run from February 1 – March 1.

As springtime arrives and the cherry trees begin to bloom, Everyman will present the hilarious Tony Award-winning comedy Vanya and Sonia and Masha and Spike, by Christopher Durang. Inspired by the works of Anton Chekhov, this play is a satirical and poignant exploration of family tensions and longing for relevance in a changing world. It will be directed by Lancisi and runs March 22 – April 19.

Closing out the season will be Kate Hamill’s exciting new adaptation of Emma, a fast-paced modern take on Jane Austen’s classic story of love and romance. With a large size cast of 8 actors, this play will be a shining example of the acting strength and camaraderie among Everyman’s Resident Company members. It will be directed by Laura Kepley (POTUS: Or, Behind Every Great Dumbass Are Seven Women Trying to Keep Him Alive, or The Book Club Play, Ken Ludwig’s Baskerville: A Sherlock Holmes Mystery) and runs May 17 – June 14.

Full show descriptions, schedules, and ticket info available at everymantheatre.org/2025-2026

Astral Ground and Submersive Productions Presents New Theatre-in-the-Dark Series
Press Release :: March 19

Astral Ground Productions, the duo that brought you the groundbreaking theatre-in-the-dark production, SCAT: An Ode to the Bright Eyed and Bushy Tailed, at The Voxel last summer is teaming up with Submersive Productions to bring you “Theatre in the Dark” — a new series opening May 9th at Submersive HQ in Hampden.

Each episode of the series will be in collaboration with a different local artist to create a narrative soundscape that highlights the aural dimensions of their work. The flexible Submersive HQ space will be configured to compliment each new installment. The hope is to activate the community around the experience and that each audience member will bring their own unique perspectives to every story.

“Theatre-in-the-dark invites audiences to relinquish the comfort of sight and embrace the power of sound, imagination, and our memories,” adds Oslejsek, creator and sound artist of SCAT.

“No one leaves an experience the same way, because they came in differently to begin with – that’s what makes theatre personal.” Oslejsek, recent Helen Hayes nominee, began specialising in sound-based theatre after their postgraduate study at The Royal Central School of Speech and Drama in London, England.

“Theatre-in-the-dark pinpoints how much of a role our senses play in our worldview,” says Hudson, creator, director, and performing artist of SCAT. “We are using this tool to ask:

‘What are we ignoring? Must we experience something to fight for it? How often are we averting our gaze? For how long?’ It offers a powerful reminder of the delicate dance between bystander and accomplice.” Hudson combines her work in poetry and performance in the storytelling of this piece.

Astral Ground & Submersive Productions’ Theatre-in-the-Dark Series promises to be a transformative theatrical experience, inviting audiences to engage in thought-provoking dialogue and introspection. Don’t miss your chance to be part of this unforgettable journey that reveals what theatrical art is truly capable of when we continue to explore what is considered live performance.

“Sound is the most immediate and immersive of senses, and it’s been the focus of my work with Submersive. I’ve always wanted to do a series that was just about listening. After experiencing Astral’s piece last year, we started talking about how we might collaborate on something using our new HQ space in Hampden. It’s been exciting to work with them and see this series unfold,” says Glenn Ricci, Co-artistic Director of Submersive Productions. The series will premiere with a revamped remount of SCAT: An Ode to the Bright Eyed and Bushy Tailed, co-created by Chania Hudson and Madeline ‘Mo’ Oslejsek. This captivating performance challenges audiences to explore themes of visibility, resilience, and the shared human experience without reliance on their sense of sight. SCAT: An Ode to the Bright Eyed and Bushy Tailed is a poignant testament to the resilience of the unseen and unheard, a testament to the enduring strength of those ignored by society’s gaze, and the emptiness of their painful reality. As the night unfolds, the young woman’s journey reminds us that even in darkness, echoes can still resonate with the power to ignite change.

Through a blend of jazz, environmental soundscapes, and immersive storytelling, audiences are transported into the protagonist’s world, where every footstep and tick of the clock echoes the harsh reality of her disappearance. SCAT amplifies the voices of those often marginalized and ignored, particularly Black women. Local Baltimore director, Jalice Ortiz-Corral, commented, “This show is an EXPERIENCE!! It’s more than theatre, more than a story — it’s a journey through your own body and senses. If you’re a woman who has ever walked alone at night, you NEED to hear this story!!”

Astral and Submersive are planning to create new episodes of “Theatre in the Dark” at least twice a year. Work has begun on the second installment featuring Submersive Core Creator Trustina Sabah later in 2025.

For more information or to purchase tickets, please click here.

Big Fish: Jonathan Schwartz and The Lyric’s past, present and future
by David Nitkin
Published April 8 in Baltimore Fishbowl

Excerpt: An anchor of the Mount Vernon neighborhood and arguably the most historic performing arts venue in Baltimore, The Lyric has hosted internationally renowned stars for more than a century.

The stage has been in continuous use since it was built to exacting acoustic specifications in 1894, a time before sound amplification. Jonathan Schwartz has served as executive director of The Lyric Foundation since 2018, and he spoke to Baltimore Fishbowl about the past and the future of the venue as it celebrates its 130th anniversary.

This conversation has been edited for length and clarity.

Strathmore Honors Baltimore and Rockville Lyricists with Top Prizes at 2025 Bernard/Ebb Songwriting Awards
Press Release :: April 4

Strathmore proudly announces the winners of the 2025 Bernard/Ebb Songwriting Awards, recognizing standout talent from across the DMV. Baltimore-based poet and songwriter Wordsmith took home the top prize in the Adult Category, while Rockville high schooler Aaron Swibel earned first place in the Youth Category.

The awards were presented at last night’s Finalists Concert & Awards Ceremony at the Music Center at Strathmore, which featured live performances by eight of the region’s most exciting emerging songwriters across genres.

Wordsmith—a songwriter, poet, actor, and philanthropist—is known for his intricate lyricism, vivid storytelling, and genre-spanning style that blends hip-hop, jazz, rock, and pop. His music often reflects on social issues and personal experiences. He has been recognized by the ASCAPLUS Awards, Independent Music Awards, and Baker Artist Awards, and his work has been featured by WWE, ESPN, AMC’s Preacher, and Netflix’s Russian Doll and Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt.

His winning songs, “Welcome Home” and “Anti,” impressed the judges with their emotional resonance and technical craft. As the Adult Category winner, Wordsmith receives a $10,000 cash prize, 25 hours of studio time at Innovation Station Music, and two hours of music business strategy consulting with producer Dave Mallen.

Second place in the Adult Category went to Germantown’s Jen Hawley for her songs “Strawberry Moon” and “Wage War,” earning a $2,500 prize. Hawley’s music—fusing folk, jazz, and bluegrass—explores love, justice, and loss.

Showcasing a wide range of sounds and stories, the remaining Adult Category finalists—Hannah Westley (New Market, Md.), Integriti Reeves (Fort Washington, Md.), and Laura Brino (Annapolis, Md.)—each received a $1,000 prize.

In the Youth Category, high school sophomore Aaron Swibel won the $2,500 top prize for his original song “Listen.” Blending elements of pop, country, and classic rock with guitar-driven melodies, Swibel writes songs to express his emotions and connect with others. His lyrics explore love, introspection, and nostalgia, revealing a depth of insight well beyond his years. He recently made his live debut at Outta the Way Café in Derwood, Md., and performed under conductor Jason Max Ferdinand at the Maryland High School Choir Invitational.

Two additional Youth Category finalists also demonstrated remarkable talent: Cameron Steele (Leesburg, Va.) and Chloe Stuckey, performing as “Chloe Key” (McLean, Va.).

Judges for the 2025 competition included multi-genre artist Damien Sneed, Grammy-nominated singer-songwriter Raul Midón, and acclaimed songwriter Angela Sclafani. Throughout the night, they offered live feedback and praised the finalists for their originality, emotional depth, and exceptional songwriting.

Now in its ninth year, the Bernard/Ebb Songwriting Awards honor the legacy of Broadway legend Fred Ebb, lyricist of Cabaret, Chicago, and New York, New York. The competition is open to songwriters from Maryland, Virginia, and Washington, D.C., and provides both cash prizes and professional development opportunities.

About Strathmore

Since 1983, Strathmore has enriched lives through transformative artistic experiences in North Bethesda, Md. This nonprofit cultural institution showcases world-class talent, supports emerging artists, and offers diverse programs across its campus and in the Music Center and the Mansion. Strathmore fosters creativity and community through performance, educational initiatives, and accessible arts programming. Experience the magic of Strathmore, where the arts are everywhere.

Follow Strathmore on Instagram, Facebook, YouTube, and X.

National Gallery of Art Launches New Program to Share Nation’s Art Collection with Museums Across the United States
Press Release :: April 8

Today, the National Gallery of Art announces details of its “Across the Nation” partnership program bringing key works of art from its permanent collection to regional museums across the United States in 2025 and 2026. Through “Across the Nation,” the National Gallery has lent works of art by renowned artists from its collection—including Georgia O’Keeffe, Andy Warhol, Dorothea Lange, Sandro Botticelli, Rembrandt van Rijn, Henri Matisse, and Mark Rothko—to 10 partner museums in Alaska, Colorado, Connecticut, Idaho, Iowa, Michigan, Nevada, North Carolina, Utah, and Washington. This program creates unprecedented access to the nation’s masterworks by placing them directly in communities throughout the country. “Across the Nation” is part of the National Gallery’s programming commemorating the 250th anniversary of the United States of America in 2026.

Partner institutions have each selected between one and ten artworks on loan—spanning painting, photography, and installation—from the National Gallery’s collection. Partners include Anchorage Museum (Anchorage, AK), Boise Art Museum (Boise, ID), Denver Art Museum (Denver, CO), Figge Art Museum (Davenport, IA), Flint Institute of Arts (Flint, MI), Mint Museum (Charlotte, NC),  New Britain Museum of Art (New Britain, CT), Utah Museum of Contemporary Art (Salt Lake City, UT), and Whatcom Museum (Bellingham, WA). The Nevada Museum of Art (Reno, NV) is presenting an iteration of the National Gallery’s 2023–2024 exhibition Dorothea Lange: Seeing People. All “Across the Nation” presentations will be on view by May 2025, with several presentations on view now.

Partner institutions were selected to broaden access to the nation’s art collection in as many regions of the United States as possible. The lending program—including expenses associated with the transport and installation of the artworks—is supported by the National Gallery, with minimal to no cost for partner institutions. The National Gallery is also providing additional support by way of conservation services and training, as well as marketing. Marketing campaigns within the museums’ local communities are underwritten as part of the program, creating greater awareness for the program, and the National Gallery is collaborating with partners to develop and execute digital and educational programming pegged to their “Across the Nation” presentations in 2025–2026.

“‘Across the Nation’ is the manifestation of the National Gallery’s vision as the nation’s art museum, and we are so thrilled to bring some of the most beloved works from the nation’s collection of art directly into communities across the country,” said Kaywin Feldman, director of the National Gallery of Art.

For their “Across the Nation” presentations, partner museums selected works from the National Gallery’s collection that bring new perspectives to their own installations and complement public programs and interests of their respective communities. Loans include:

On view now, the Anchorage Museum (Anchorage, AK) is exhibiting paintings by Georgia O’Keeffe, Mark Rothko, and Nancy Graves.

On view now, Denver Art Museum (Denver, CO) is presenting a painting by Rembrandt van Rijn alongside a portrait of Rembrandt painted by his studio, both from the National Gallery’s collection, offering a new perspective on the artist.

On view now, the Whatcom Museum (Bellingham, WA) features works by leaders of the impressionist movement, including Henri Matisse, Auguste Renoir, and Paul Cezanne.

On view now, the Utah Museum of Contemporary Art (Salt Lake City, UT) presents a large-scale wall drawing by Sol Lewitt—marking the second time the work has ever been on view.

Opening in April, Boise Art Museum (Boise, ID) will exhibit paintings by Mark Rothko, Berthe Morisot, and Thomas Eakins.

Opening in April, the Flint Institute of Arts (Flint, MI) will exhibit three paintings spanning the breadth of art history by Sandro Botticelli, Hans Memling, and Andy Warhol.

Opening in April, the Mint Museum (Charlotte, NC) will exhibit three paintings by Alma Thomas, Georgia O’Keeffe, and Edgar Degas.

Opening in April, the Nevada Museum of Art (Reno, NV) will present a new iteration of the exhibition Dorothea Lange: Seeing People, which was organized and curated by the National Gallery, where it was originally exhibited in 2023–2024. The exhibition will be on view in Nevada through February 2026.

Opening in May, the Figge Art Museum (Davenport, IA) will exhibit 10 historical masterworks from Northern Europe dating from 1537 to 1700, by artists including Lucas Cranach the Elder, Anthony van Dyck, Frans Hals, and Louis Vallée.

Opening in May, the New Britain Museum of Art (New Britain, CT), will present a historical painting by Robert Duncanson and a painting by Winslow Homer.

About the National Gallery of Art
The National Gallery of Art welcomes all people to explore art, creativity, and our shared humanity. Nearly four million people come through its doors each year—with millions more online—making it one of the most visited art museums in the world. The National Gallery’s renowned collection includes nearly 160,000 works of art, from the ancient world to today. Admission to the West and East Buildings, Sculpture Garden, special exhibitions, and public programs is always free.

See more:

Major Botticelli, O’Keeffe, and Rothko Paintings to Tour 10 U.S. States
by Jo Lawson-Tancred
Published April 8 in Artnet News

Kennedy Center leaders dismantle Social Impact initiative weeks after Trump takeover
by Bryson Kloesel
Published April 7 in The GW Hatchet

Excerpt: Kennedy Center leadership began dissolving the Center’s Social Impact initiative, which invited diverse artists to host events at the Center, late last month on the heels of President Donald Trump’s takeover of its board in February.

Seven of the initiative’s employees received letters informing them of their termination last month signed by Kennedy Center Vice President of Human Resources LaTa’Sha Bowens, while three of the team’s employees whose roles were not equity-focused remained, NPR reported. Multiple artists and partners linked with Social Impact’s equity programming said they didn’t receive warning from Kennedy Center officials ahead of the elimination of the Social Impact division, leaving artists and collaborators of the initiative’s programs unsure of the future of their projects at the Center.

The Kennedy Center created the Social Impact program in July 2020 to support anti-racism at the Center through “organizational self-evaluation,” increased engagement with Black artists and communities, offering meeting spaces for artists and diversifying events. Just months prior, Officer Derek Chauvin killed George Floyd, sparking off a series of racial justice protests across the country.

Winner of Preakness 150: The Art of Racing Revealed
Press Release :: April 8

Today, The Art of Racing, a nationwide art competition celebrating the unique elements of The Preakness Stakes and Thoroughbred horse racing, culminated in the announcement of Steve Luhn as the competition’s winner. Luhn’s original artwork, titled “Winning Colors,” was selected by a panel of judges from among the over 250 total submissions, the most submissions in the competition’s history.

The winning artwork was announced during an honorary ceremony at Baltimore City Hall. A longtime advocate and native of Park Heights, Mayor Scott joined Baltimore City Council members and leadership of the Park Heights Renaissance, 1/ST and The Maryland Jockey Club for the announcement. Participating artists also attended, offering a chance to meet, support one another, and celebrate a shared tradition and momentum leading up to the big event. Like the Preakness, the event highlighted how art unites communities across Baltimore.

In its fourth year, The Art of Racing was launched on January 30 by 1/ST and The Maryland Jockey Club through a call for entries to artists nationwide. The submission deadline was March 14, at which point the public was encouraged to visit www.preakness.com/the-art-of-racing to peruse the digital gallery and cast a vote for their favorite work of art. The top 10 vote-getters were then judged by a panel that included elected officials, community leaders and thoroughbred racing professionals to select the winner.

“My representation of horse racing captures the dynamic energy and excitement of the sport,” said Luhn. “Bold, vibrant colors and striking visual elements convey the intensity of the race, with the horse mid-gallop, jockey leaning forward, creating a sense of speed and competition.”

As the winner of the fourth-annual competition, Luhn receives a $4,000 prize and two VIP tickets to Preakness 150 on Saturday, May 17. Additionally, his work will be reproduced on a curated collection of Preakness 150 merchandise that will be available for purchase online and onsite during Preakness weekend. All proceeds from the sale of merchandise will be used to advance the activities of Park Heights Renaissance as it pursues affordable housing for families and provides employment opportunities to people of Park Heights.

“The platform given to artists, both amateur and professional, who have entered The Art of Racing competition over the past four years highlights the vibrance and legacy of The Preakness Stakes, especially as we celebrate the historic moment of Preakness 150. This year marks a significant milestone for submissions and voting, as we see greater engagement than ever before,” said Audra Madison, Director of Marketing, The Maryland Jockey Club. “It brings me joy to see the diverse array of artwork entered into the competition each year, and I hope the community feels the same sense of celebration and pride as we support and uplift our local talent during this remarkable year.”

The ongoing partnership between 1/ST, The Maryland Jockey Club and the Park Heights Renaissance also includes the George E. Mitchell Black-Eyed Susan Stakes and the George E. Mitchell Park Heights Community Fellowship Grant, both of which honor the extraordinary legacy of Mitchell himself and recognize individuals who share a similar commitment to their friends and neighbors.

For more information on The Art of Racing, visit www.preakness.com/the-art-of-racing or follow @PreaknessStakes and #Preakness on social media.

The Baltimore Old Time Music Festival Celebrates the City’s Americana Past and Present
by Megan DeMatteo
Published April 7 in Baltimore Magazine

Excerpt: Ken Kolodner first picked up a fiddle in 1977 with a simple goal: to play well enough to join others.

Then a newcomer to music, the Baltimore native learned by ear and from other musicians. He took a classical violin lesson once but—in what can only be viewed as a sign—it was disrupted by a home robbery. Nobody was hurt but, as Kolodner recalls, “That was the end of my violin lessons.”

But it didn’t stop his interest in music. He went on to attend workshops and festivals across the Mid-Atlantic. He sharpened his skills, learned another instrument—the hammered dulcimer—and formed Helicon, a beloved Baltimore-based trio that blended various musical styles, including Appalachian bluegrass and its predecessor, “old time,” aka early American folk music, often performed for rural dances and social gatherings.

Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development Announces Accelerated $50 Million Baltimore Vacants Reinvestment Initiative Application Round
Press Release :: April 2

Excerpt: Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development Secretary Jake Day today announced the Fiscal Year 2026 application round for the Baltimore Vacants Reinvestment Initiative (BVRI) has opened. The accelerated application round will prioritize performance and efficiency, deploying $50 million in funding to Community Development Organizations who have a track record of results-oriented redevelopment of vacant housing.

“The changes to the Baltimore Vacants Reinvestment Initiative will forge a new path for revitalization and rehabilitation in the City of Baltimore. If we want to drive investment and growth, we need to address the vacancy problem in Baltimore and do it efficiently. That’s what this acceleration is all about,” said Governor Wes Moore. “Through the Reinvest Baltimore initiative, leaders across all parts of the city and state are coming together to stay synchronized and focused in our work to tackle vacancy.” […]