Baltimore’s internationally-acclaimed museum for self-taught, intuitive artists will host an all-day event celebrating the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.—MLK Dare to Dream Day—on Monday, January 20, 2024 from 10 AM–5 PM, featuring an engaging and imaginative schedule of events and activities for visitors of all ages. MLK Dare to Dream Day marks the one day each year AVAM is open on a Monday, returning with live music and dance performances, an open mic and poetry slam, docent-led museum tours, art workshops, and more. All festivities and museum admission are FREE on the day of the event.

There will be several interactive, family-friendly activities to take part in throughout the day’s events in the Jim Rouse Visionary Center (JRVC). The Open Mic and Poetry Slam is an opportunity for artists of all ages to showcase their talents before a wide audience of museum visitors for a chance to win a cash prize of $25, $50 or $75! While the event will take place on the JRVC 3rd floor, participants may sign up at the desk at JRVC First Floor prior to 1 PM.

Among the many highlights of the day include the ability of visitors to dive into the mind and heart of artist Jess Owens-Young, as she leads two artist talk sessions beginning at 2 PM in the JRVC Classroom. Ms. Owens-Young’s work is currently on display in the “Good Sports: The Wisdom & Fun of Fair Play” MEGA-Exhibition on the 2nd floor of AVAM’s main building.

Throughout the day-long celebration of Dr. King, the AVAM Café will be open from 11 AM-3PM, featuring a variety of food options available for purchase provided by Absolutely Perfect Catering!

During the event, visitors will be able to donate new, unused toiletries, and self-care items for House of Ruth: one of the nation’s leading intimate partner violence centers, which provides a safe haven for victims of domestic violence and their children.