Executive Director Newsletter 12/8

It’s a momentous day in Baltimore. Today at noon, former City Council President Brandon M. Scott was sworn in as Baltimore City’s 52nd Mayor. After a tumultuous decade, the City is ready to drive positive change.

In addition to tackling gun violence and restoring the public’s trust in local government, the new Mayor has signaled his commitment to the creative sector by creating a Transition Team on ARTS and CULTURE: Valuing Creative Hubs and Cultural Institutions. To my knowledge, this is the first time ever that a Baltimore Mayor’s Transition Team has been committed fully to our sector.

Among the 26 member group are many strong GBCA connections. Board member Navasha Daya (singer activist and co-founder of Youth Resiliency Institute) and former Board president Julia Marciari Alexander(Executive Director and CEO of The Walters Art Museum) were both selected to be a part of the team. Other members have close ties to GBCA’s Urban Arts Leadership, a program that helps advance the careers of aspiring arts administrators of color. They include Quanice Floyd, Executive Director of Arts Education in MD Schools and Founder and Director of the Arts Administrators of Color (AAC) Network; and Ernest Shaw, a renowned Baltimore-based artist.

Jess Solomon, Co-Chair Principal and Director for Art in Praxis Graham Coreil-Allen, Co-Chair Public Artist and Principal of Graham Projects will ably lead the team. Congratulations to Mayor Scott and others who were sworn into office including the Baltimore City Council led by Nick Mosby, the new Council President; and Bill Henry who was elected as the new Comptroller. There is reason for optimism today, even amidst our many challenges. Integrating the creative sector as a strength and asset to the city, is another reason for hope.

All my best,

Jeannie

P.S. The Baker Artist Portfolios has been extended to January 20, 2021, for artists to create or update their portfolio to be eligible for one of next year's awards. A series of Info Session has been scheduled for artists to learn more, get tips, and ask questions. The next session is tomorrow, Wednesday, December 9, at noon.

Click here for more information, a list of additional dates, and to RSVP!

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