We envision this issue as a bridge between fine art and craft, an artificial distinction that has historically separated European male “genius” artists from everyone else, certifying traditional media like painting and sculpture as culturally viable while designating others as “industry” or “hobby” and denigrating their worth.

 

Issue 09 recognizes a broad and diverse community of creative makers thriving in Baltimore, including crafters, quilters, woodworkers, fashion designers, jewelers, and small creative business owners, to expand a conversation around the way these practices enrich our cultural ecosystem every day. This issue features fiber artist Annet Couwenberg, fashion designer Jody Davis, artist and puppeteer Schroder Cherry, performer, mentor, and indigo-dyer Kibibi Ajanku, fine art jeweler Betty Cooke, quilter Monique Crabb, and so many others. We truly hope that the photos, artwork, and stories of this issue reinforce a sense of creative solidarity across our communities even in these difficult times.

 

Cover: Kibibi Ajanku photographed by Phylicia Ghee

 

The BmoreArt Journal of Art + Ideas is released twice a year–each fall and spring–and offers a thematic and image-dense account of art and cultural offerings in the region. All of the writing, photos, art, and design are created locally and offers a unique, authentic, and diverse perspective on Baltimore as a creative muse and environment. The print publication covers visual arts, fashion, design, architecture, food, film, performance, and politics and viewed through the lens of creative cultural production.

$15