Money and creativity make the art world go round. No entity understands this equation better than the Maryland State Arts Council. The pivotal organization celebrates its 40th anniversary this fall with an exhibit showcasing 40 Maryland artists.
Linking the artists to each other and the Council creates a web between who?s who in Maryland?s art scene.
“This exhibit is a sampling of what?s happening around the state with artists who are really involved in the arts community,” said Baltimore native and Curator, Oletha De Vane. “The work exemplifies what I call the standard of excellence.”
Both novice and seasoned artists were asked to show their paintings, sculptures, drawings, fabric work and installations for the exhibit.
Many of the artists have received grants from the Council, said the organization?s Executive Director, Theresa Colvin. “When other states were cutting back funding, the Council continued to fund individual artists because it all starts with them.”
Each year, the Council gives a quarter of a million dollars to 100 local artists, Colvin said. “We really are there for artists 365 days of year, providing support on a day-to-day basis, making sure everyone can get into exhibits and attracting artists to Maryland so they want to live and work here.”
According to the Council, in FY 2006, the Maryland arts industry contributed more than $1 billion to the State?s economy and provided 13,762 jobs to Maryland residents.
“Some artists wouldn?t know each other or come into contact if not for the council,” said Colvin. “You never know what?s going to happen when you put two artists together, that?s why the exhibit is so extraordinary.”
“The Council is definitely a blessing to artists,” said five-time recipient of an individual artist?s grant, Chevelle Moore Jones who used the majority of the grants to purchase expensive art supplies.
In 1997, Absolut Vodka commissioned Jones to produce an ?Absolut Moore.? Jones? paintings and sculptures have also been on view in numerous solo and group shows throughout the area.
Jones? paintings, often about women, posses a “strong emotional quality that really draws me in,” De Vane said. “She probably has one of the strongest color palettes I know.”
For the Council?s anniversary show, Jonescontributed one of her favorite pieces, Interlude. “I would characterize it as an allegory about challenges within opportunities.”
IF YOU GO
» Celebrating 40 Years ? Showcasing 40 Artists
Maryland State Arts Council » Venue: James Backas Gallery
175 West Ostend Street, Baltimore
» When: Through December 19; 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Friday
» Price: Free
» Information: 410-767-6555
