The art world, which relies on galleries for survival, is taking a hard hit during the pandemic, but one museum is doing its part to keep local artists and galleries afloat. The Baltimore Museum of Art is using $100,000 diverted from its spring speaker series to give back to the local art community.
The museum has created three new support initiatives: BMA Salon, BMA Screening Room, and BMA Studio and invites local galleries and artists to feature their work on the museum’s Necessity of Tomorrow(s) website which boasts more than 24,000 subscribers. Featured galleries on the site will also receive a $2,500 stipend and keep all proceeds from any sales.
The goal of the initiative is to connect art lovers, specifically collectors, with some lesser-known organizations in Baltimore. Although most of the art is only being seen virtually at the moment, it is giving struggling artists space and the financial support needed to continue to promote their work and pursue further creative projects.
The museum is even going beyond supporting galleries. It has also partnered with the Greenmount West Community Center to distribute 1,400 art-making kits and meals to local families. The kits are based on the museum’s popular Free Family Sundays program.
Earlier this month we shared a story about a museum in Toronto offering a drive-in exhibit. This is yet another solution for keeping the art world alive and inspiring viewers even when traditional creative channels are shut down. We urge you to check out the museum’s website and perhaps discover your new favorite up and coming artist.
