Celebrate Baltimore Artscape 40 and enjoy live music, art markets, art exhibitions, fashion shows, and more exciting events for all ages.

BY KAZEEM ADELEKE, ARTCENTRON

BALTIMORE, MARYLAND-Artscape, Baltimore’s premier cultural event of the year, returns for its 40th anniversary. This highly anticipated celebration will take place from Friday, August 2, to Sunday, August 4, 2024. Under the joint effort of BOPA and the City of Baltimore, this year’s event promises an unforgettable experience filled with art, music, and community spirit.

The Mayor of Baltimore, Brandon M. Scott, expressed excitement that Baltimore’s premier arts and culture festival is back for its 40th year. “Artscape is Baltimore. Our vibrant artistic community is at the heart of our identity as Charm City. I want to encourage everyone to come out the first weekend in August to enjoy what is sure to be one of the best events of the year.”

This year’s event will take place during its original summer season, although not in its traditional month of July. This change is to prevent what happened during last year’s event. After years of holding the annual event under the blazing July sun, the organizers experimented last year by holding the art event in September. This shift followed years of hiatus due to COVID-19. The September event was a disaster.

The Return of the Summer Art Event

Firstly, it conflicted with other major happenings in the city, including the beginning of the school year. It also conflicted with important art events, such as the performing arts season. Adding salt to the injury, a huge storm forced the 39th Artscape Festival to cancel all activities on Saturday, its busiest day of the festival. Despite all the hurdles and obstacles, 44,000 attendees braved the weather to support the art event. This attendance generated $12.1 million due to economic activities, according to officials of the event.

The number of visitors to the 39th edition of the Artscape Festival was minuscule compared to when the event was at its peak. During its prime, the event attracted 350,000 visitors and generated $28.5 million in revenue for the city. However, last year’s turnout was a stark contrast, showcasing the need for the event to return to its original summer schedule.

With lessons learned, the organizers are optimistic about this year’s event. By returning to the summer season, the festival aims to recapture its former glory and attract a larger audience. The goal is to avoid scheduling conflicts and weather-related disruptions that plagued last year’s event.

Exciting Entertainment Lineup for Baltimore Artscape 40

There will be three entertainment stages at this year’s Artscape event, featuring more than 40 performances from hip-hop to country. A new addition to this year’s activities is “The Git Down Series,” an after-hours program that will feature 20 additional musical acts. This series will add a vibrant nightlife element to the festival.

In addition to “The Git Down” series, there will also be a two-day festival focused on the notorious “Highway to Nowhere.” This past effort aimed to connect Interstate 70 with Interstates 80 and 93 but resulted in a controversial outcome. The event, held in conjunction with Artscape in late July, is part of BOPA’s Artscape in the Neighborhood initiative, organized by the community group West Baltimore United. The objective is to bring attention to the travesty that bisected West Baltimore.

Main Stage Lineup for Baltimore Artscape 40

The lineup for the main stage is set to feature a diverse array of performances that cater to all tastes. Expectations are high, and the organizers are optimistic that the lineup will help recapture the festival’s former glory and attract a larger audience.

Saturday Night Headliner: Sheila E.

The main stage on Saturday, August 3, at 8:45 p.m., will feature the incomparable Queen of Percussion, Sheila E. Known for her dynamic performances and profound influence on the music industry, Sheila E. will captivate the audience with her timeless hits, including tracks from her debut album, The Glamorous Life. As a prolific singer, songwriter, musician, producer, actress, and CEO, Sheila E.’s performance is a must-see highlight of Artscape 40.

Sunday Headliners: Navasha Daya and The Original Wailers

Sunday, August 4, will showcase the soulful sounds of Navasha Daya. She will thrill fans with her unique blend of jazz, funk, and world music. Following her performance is the Trinidad & Tobago Steel Drum Orchestra. The band will bring the vibrant rhythms of the Caribbean to the main stage.

At 3:00 p.m., the legendary band The Original Wailers, which includes Al Anderson, lead guitarist for Bob Marley & The Wailers, will close out this year’s celebration. The reggae supergroup continues the musical legacy of Bob Marley & The Wailers. The group includes Chet Samuel (Lead Vocals/Guitar), Omar Lopez (Bass Guitar), Paapa Nyarkoh (Drums), and Adrian AK Cisneros (Keyboard/Organ).

Friday Night Special Act

The first night of Artscape 40 will conclude with a very special act that will be announced soon. Stay tuned for this exciting reveal, which promises to set the tone for an unforgettable weekend.

Supporting Local Artists

Artscape is not only a celebration of performance art but also a platform to support and showcase the talents of local artists. The event provides countless opportunities to support these artists and contribute to the major impact that the celebration continues to bring to the city.

Sondheim Semifinalists Exhibition and B_24

In addition to the traditional Sondheim Semifinalists Exhibition and the return of B_24, BOPA is also producing an exhibition in MICA’s Pinkard Gallery. The art exhibition features the work of distinguished local artists. It will highlight the creativity and skill of Baltimore’s artistic community, offering visitors a chance to see and purchase original works of art.

Artists Market and Youth Artist Market

The Artists Market will feature 101 artists presenting original work available for purchase. MICA students will also sell their work in MICA’s Brown Center. Additionally, Jubilee Arts will activate a Youth Artist Market, an extension of Kidscape, where youth vendors will sell their artistic creations in Gordon Plaza. This initiative not only supports young artists but also encourages the next generation of creatives.

Project Artscape and Fashion Shows

Project Artscape returns for its second year, bringing even more excitement to this year’s festival. The fashion shows, hosted by Caprece Ann Jackson, will take place inside the popular event venue, The Garage on W. Lanvale Street. Twelve local designers will showcase their designs on the runway. Each show will be backed by an original composition from the Baltimore Jazz Alliance. This unique combination of fashion and music will provide a thrilling experience for all attendees.

Additional Attractions and Activities for Baltimore Artscape 40

Artscape 40 will also include a variety of additional attractions and activities to ensure there is something for everyone. From interactive installations and family-friendly activities to culinary delights and craft vendors, the festival will offer a diverse array of experiences.

Interactive Art Installations

Visitors can engage with interactive art installations throughout the festival grounds. These installations are designed to be immersive and participatory, allowing attendees to become part of the art themselves.

Family-Friendly Activities

Family-friendly activities will be available, making Artscape 40 a perfect outing for all ages. Kidscape will feature a range of activities designed specifically for children. This will ensure that young visitors have an enjoyable and enriching experience.

Culinary Delights and Craft Vendors

Food lovers will be delighted by the culinary offerings at Artscape 40. A wide variety of food vendors will be on hand, serving up everything from local favorites to international cuisine. The current estimation is that 50 food and beverage vendors will be at this year’s event. Additionally, craft vendors will offer unique handmade items, perfect for those looking to take home a special memento from the festival.

Getting to Baltimore Artscape 40

Artscape 40 will take place in Midtown Baltimore, with the festival grounds spanning from the Meyerhoff Symphony Hall to the Lyric Opera House and beyond. Attendees are encouraged to use public transportation or  rideshare services to get to the festival, as parking in the area will be limited.

Public Transportation

The Baltimore City Department of Transportation will be providing additional services to accommodate the influx of visitors. Be sure to check their website for the latest updates on transit routes and schedules.

Rideshare Services to Baltimore Artscape 40

Rideshare services such as Uber and Lyft will have designated drop-off and pick-up points near the festival grounds. This convenient option helps reduce traffic congestion and makes getting to and from Artscape 40 hassle-free.

In conclusion, Baltimore Artscape 40 promises to be a spectacular celebration of art, culture, and community. With an impressive lineup of performers, numerous opportunities to support local artists, and a wide range of activities and attractions, this year’s festival is set to be one of the best yet. Mark your calendars for August 2-4, 2024, and join us in celebrating the vibrant artistic spirit of Baltimore.

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