BmoreArt’s Picks: August 18-24
This Week: Closing reception for DMV Artists for Venezuela, The Valerie J. Maynard Symposium, The Jonathan Gilmore Project at Creative Alliance, Galerie Myrtis’ Room to Bloom virtual panel discussion, Schwingo at Make Studio, Open House/Open Studios at The Last Resort Artist Retreat, Materio-mancy artist talk + closing reception, and Side by Side: The Gurlz of Baltimore opening reception at Goya Contemporary — PLUS apply for Spring/Summer 2027 MacDowell Fellowships and more featured opportunities!
BmoreArt’s Picks presents the best weekly art openings, events, and performances happening in Baltimore and surrounding areas. For a more comprehensive perspective, check the BmoreArt Calendar page, which includes ongoing exhibits and performances, and is updated on a daily basis.
To submit your calendar event, email us at events@bmoreart.com!
Art Auction Supporting Humanitarian Relief in Venezuela | In-Person Closing Reception
Thursday, August 20 :: 6-9pm
@ Kbird DC
On June 24, 2026, two powerful earthquakes struck northern Venezuela, claiming thousands of lives and affecting an estimated 6.76 million people, according to the UN’s International Organization for Migration (IOM). In response and solidarity, artists from across DC, Maryland, and Virginia have generously donated artworks to raise funds for those affected.
We believe that art can be a conduit for compassion and support. Help us turn solidarity into real-life impact! – This auction is a meaningful opportunity to collect original artworks, while supporting vital humanitarian relief efforts for communities in need.
Online auction: July 20 to August 20, 2026
In-person Closing Reception: Thursday, August 20 | 6 to 9 pm | Kbird DC (1333 P St. NW. Washington, DC)
The proceeds from the art sales will be donated to the VACC Foundation Earthquake Relief Fund–a Venezuelan diaspora organization working with vetted local partners, and mutual aid networks delivering emergency relief and long-term recovery to the most affected communities.
The Valerie J. Maynard Legacy Symposium
Friday, August 21 + Saturday, August 22
@ Baltimore Museum of Art + Motor House
This summer, we bring together artists, archivists, and community members for a rich two days of hands-on engagement in archival practice! This is a celebration of Valerie J. Maynard, a sculptor, printmaker, designer, and educator born in Harlem who made Baltimore her home.
The celebration starts with the first annual Valerie J. Maynard Short Film Festival featuring selected work by Baltimore filmmakers Angela Carroll, Monica Freeman, and Elissa Blount Moorhead. Then join us for the final day of the symposium which will include FREE food, entertainment fellowship and Black art. The day will consist of workshops and hands-on experience for you to engage with the Foundation’s archival practice and cultivate your own.
The Valerie J. Maynard Short Film Festival kicks off the Symposium on Aug. 21, from 11AM until 1PM EST at the Baltimore Museum of Art’s Meyerhoff Auditorium. Ticketed entry into the film festival requires a $10 donation.
The full day of FREE activities and celebration takes place on August 22, at the Motor House in the Station North District of Baltimore from 10AM until 9PM. Entry is free with an RSVP.
Funktopia Presents: The Jonathan Gilmore Project Beautiful Freaks
Friday, August 21 :: 7:30pm
@ Creative Alliance
For years, Jonathan Gilmore’s performances have been described as part revival, part juke joint—big voices, deep feeling, storytelling, and joy that refuses to stay seated.
Beautiful Freaks brings together the musical energy of a Jonathan Gilmore concert and the theatrical imagination of Funktopia for one unforgettable night.
Featuring live music, DJs, performance artists, special guests, and surprises throughout the evening, Beautiful Freaks is a celebration of the dreamers, the believers, the glitter saints, the dance floor prophets, and everyone who’s ever been told they were too much.
Come dressed in your fantasy.
Come dressed in your truth.
Come ready to sing, dance, testify, and celebrate.
This is where glamour meets grit.
Where disco meets revival.
Where hoot meets holler.
For one night, the crossroads belong to us.
Read more of this week’s picks at BmoreArt.
