Bauhaus Blue, a Bauhaus-inspired mural by Jaz Erenberg revitalizing Baltimore’s Community. Photo: Night Owl Gallery via Facebook

Bauhaus Blue, a new mural by Jaz Erenberg at the corner of Maryland and East Lafayette Avenues, is transforming and revitalizing Baltimore’s Station North Community.

BY KAZEEMM ADELEKE, ARTCENTRON

BALTIMORE, MARYLAND– The corner of Maryland and East Lafayette Avenues has undergone a captivating transformation that has caught the attention of passersby. A striking mural now graces the side of the building at 1733 Maryland Ave., an artistic endeavor that has brought a new vibrancy to the area. This masterpiece, Bauhaus Blue, was meticulously crafted by the talented local muralist Jaz Erenberg. Erenberg revitalizes the façade with vibrant colors, shapes, and symbolism, delivering a message of artistic inclusivity.

Bauhaus Blue: Celebrating Bauhaus Minimalism

At the heart of the mural’s design is the philosophy of Bauhaus, an art movement that champions the principle of “less is more.” Erenberg’s mural demonstrates this ideology through vividly colored shapes set against a striking black wave. The arrangement of these elements leads the viewer’s eye across the bay windows and towards the studio’s entrance. This careful arrangement emphasizes the importance of negative space and encourages movement and engagement.

Central to the mural’s composition is an eyeball, prominently positioned as the focal point. This eye is a powerful symbol, representing both the act of seeing and being seen. Just as the eye gazes outward, it reflects the viewers who engage with the art. This mirrors the experience of those who used to frequent the gallery that once occupied the space.

The Venue and its Creative Offerings

The building at 1733 Maryland Ave. is home to a thriving creative community. The Royal Blue restaurant and bar within the building add to the lively atmosphere by hosting a weekly dance party. Adjacent to this is the Night Owl Gallery, a cozy artist-run exhibition space. This gallery showcases the original paintings and fine art prints of Beth-Ann Wilson, an accomplished artist. The Night Owl Gallery also serves as a workshop space, fostering creative growth and community engagement.

The creative spirit doesn’t end with the artwork on display. The Night Owl Gallery offers a curated selection of goods crafted by local artists and makers. These unique offerings include hand-crafted jewelry, one-of-a-kind gifts, and exquisite home decor items. This space isn’t just a gallery; it’s a hub for creativity, collaboration, and the celebration of artistic diversity.

About Jaz Erenberg: From Vision to Reality:

Jaz Erenberg, an AfroLatina artist, embarked on her mural-painting journey in 2017. Her first mural was a revelation, igniting a passion for community engagement through art. Over the past six years, Erenberg’s practice has evolved into a remarkable collaborative effort with communities. She believes that involving a community in the creative process enhances the impact of public artwork.

Erenberg’s approach involves hosting workshops and events that allow community members to participate in the artistic process actively. By contributing to the creation of a mural, individuals develop a sense of ownership and pride in their community. Erenberg’s murals serve as a source of unity, becoming a testament to the strength of connectedness fostered by creative expression.

The public will witness the unveiling of Bauhaus Blue on Friday, August 25, during the Station North Art Walk. This event, scheduled from 5:00 to 9:00 p.m., promises an evening of artistic celebration. Attendees will have the opportunity to experience the mural’s magnificence firsthand and immerse themselves in the vibrant atmosphere of creative expression.

Bauhaus Blue: Testament to the Power of Art to Rejuvenate

The transformation of the intersection of Maryland and East Lafayette Avenues is a testament to the power of art to rejuvenate and connect communities. Bauhaus Blue, with its bold colors, symbolic depth, and engagement-oriented design, encapsulates the essence of artistic inclusivity. As viewers engage with this mural, they become part of the narrative, emphasizing the connection between art and communities. This convergence of creativity and community uplifts the spirit of the area, making it a hub of cultural significance and artistic inspiration.