In this last newsletter of 2016, the entire GBCA staff, Board of Directors and volunteer team extends is warmest wishes for 2017 to our readers, friends, members, and colleagues. The creative and cultural sectors have an essential role to play in our future and we are so grateful for your work, support and alliances.
Last week in the aftermath of the Oakland tragedy in which 36 people lost their lives and the closing of the local artists’ live/work space, the Bell Foundry, Mayor Catherine Pugh announced the formation of a task force to specifically address the need for safe housing and work space for artists. I was honored to be asked to serve on the task force along with a number of community leaders, developers, bankers, city department heads, artists, and others.
It is exciting and encouraging that so early in her tenure, Mayor Pugh has made clear that artists are important to Baltimore. Understanding that artists are not alone in facing housing insecurity, we expect that new creative solutions can help others in need of safe and reliable homes.
Mary Carole McCauly’s wonderful year-end recap on the arts also makes the point that the area’s cultural institutions and artists are leading the way in national discussions and dialogue. It gives us many reasons to be hopeful as we head in to a New Year filled with changes.
As a reminder, the 2017 Rubys Artist Project Grants for Performing and Media Arts opens January 1, 2017! Check out the How to Apply page to download the grant guidelines and sign up to attend a grant workshop.
And also for artists, should you have some spare time during this holiday week the Baker Artist Portfolio site is up and just waiting for you to make your mark. Artists have until January 20, 2017 to create or update their portfolio to be eligible fore $90,000 in prize money!
While you are spending time with your family and friends, remember to check out theCulture Fly where you can get information on many wonderful performances, plays, exhibitions and events.
Wishing you all the very best,
Jeannie
