BOPA renews its commitment to foster Baltimore’s vibrant arts scene with grants, exhibitions, workshops, and seminars, as it retains its designation as Baltimore City Arts Council.

BY KAZEEM ADELEKE, ARTCENTRON

The Baltimore Office of Promotion and the Arts (BOPA) has confirmed that it will maintain its role as the designated Arts Council for Baltimore City for the upcoming fiscal year 2026. Robyn Murphy, Board Chair and Interim CEO of BOPA, announced this decision Thursday. He expressed enthusiasm about continuing the organization’s work. “We are thrilled to carry on as Baltimore City’s Arts Council Designee,” Murphy stated. “BOPA has been dedicated to this mission for over 20 years, and with a renewed focus on collaboration, we look forward to strengthening the city’s arts ecosystem alongside the Mayor’s Office.”

Lou Joseph: Director of the Baltimore City Arts Council

BOPA also introduced Lou Joseph as the new Director of the Baltimore City Arts Council. Joseph, a seasoned BOPA veteran with 10 years of experience, will lead the council’s operations moving forward. He joined BOPA in 2014 as a Visual Arts Specialist. He later advanced to his most recent role as the Prizes & Competitions Manager. Joseph played an important role in administering the prestigious Janet & Walter Sondheim Art Prize. This is an important award in the local arts community.

“I am honored to lead the arts council into its next phase,” said Joseph. “I look forward to collaborating with the City, local arts organizations, and the talented artists and cultural producers of Baltimore to continue this essential work.”

About Lou Joseph: Artist, Curator, and Administrator

Before joining BOPA, Joseph held the position of Senior Preparator of Exhibitions at the Maryland Institute College of Art (MICA). From 2012 to 2022, he directed the Institute of Contemporary Art (ICA) Baltimore, an artist-run organization he founded. As a practicing artist, Joseph specializes in painting, printmaking, and installation. He holds a Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) from Ohio Wesleyan University and a Master of Fine Arts (MFA) from Indiana University.

“Appointing Lou to lead the arts council is a natural choice,” commented Robyn Murphy. “He is deeply committed to Baltimore’s artistic community and brings unmatched professionalism to this role. The citizens of Baltimore will be fortunate to benefit from his leadership.”

As the Director of the Arts Council, Joseph will oversee various programs. They include grants, exhibitions, workshops, and seminars, all designed to support Baltimore’s vibrant arts scene.

Robyn Murphy: Interim Chair and CEO

In a related development, BOPA announced a leadership change. At a special meeting held on November 20, the board of directors and former CEO Rachel Graham mutually agreed to part ways. During this transition, BOPA appointed Robyn Murphy as Interim Chair. In accordance with the bylaws, she will also serve as the interim CEO until BOPA selects permanent leadership.

About Robyn Murphy: Communication and Strategic Partnerships

Robyn Murphy brings a wealth of experience in communications, strategic partnerships, and community engagement to her role as Interim CEO. She is the founder of JRM Consultancy, a Maryland-based firm specializing in managing messaging and fostering diverse, inclusive partnerships. Additionally, Murphy co-owns Murphy Enterprise with her husband, Jason, a retired NFL offensive lineman. In recognition of their efforts in promoting economic equity, the Baltimore City Office of Equity and Civil Rights honored the Murphys in 2023 for their support of returning citizens.

Murphy’s career includes a distinguished background in journalism. She was the first female sports reporter at two NBC affiliates and the first woman sports columnist at the Afro-American Newspaper. Furthermore, she has served as a host for BET’s election coverage. She also moderated the nationally televised panels on political and social justice issues. Murphy has written award-winning features and essays for notable publications such as Vibe and Newsweek.

Murphy’s Community Engagement

In addition to her business ventures, Robyn Murphy is active in various community and civic organizations. She serves on the Board of Trustees for the Baltimore Leadership School for Young Women and is part of the Mayor’s Arts & Culture Advisory Committee. In addition, she is on the Governor’s Jobs and Workforce Advisory Committee and the Black Leadership Circle’s Advisory Council. Murphy has also been a member of the Greater Baltimore County Chapter of Jack and Jill of America, Inc. for over 16 years.

As Interim CEO, Murphy is working closely with BOPA’s leadership and the Mayor’s Office to strengthen partnerships within the local arts community and the City at large.

Strengthening Baltimore’s Arts Ecosystem

With the combined leadership of Robyn Murphy and Lou Joseph, BOPA intends to continue fostering Baltimore’s arts scene. The continued collaboration between BOPA, the Mayor’s Office, and local artists ensures that the city’s cultural vitality remains a priority for the years to come.

BOPA’s commitment to supporting artists and cultural producers across Baltimore City will remain a major focus through 2026. Areas of support include grants, programs, and partnerships. These supports are vital for the growth of Baltimore’s arts ecosystem. As the organization moves forward, its efforts to engage and uplift Baltimore’s artistic community will remain at the heart of its mission.

This renewed focus and leadership signal an exciting new chapter for Baltimore’s creative landscape in Fiscal Year 2026 and beyond.