Art can be many things. It can be a snapshot of its creator and his or her world. It can discuss meaningful issues about one’s society and culture. It can capture a moment in time. In a broad sense, it can define an era; in a smaller sense, it can signify a moment in the individual life of its creator.
Maryland Art Place’s THIRTY: 30 Creative Minds Under 30 magnifies all these different ways of looking at art. By showcasing 30 different artists in the Baltimore area—all under 30 years old–it captures different styles, techniques, ideas and lives. Each artist honored as one of the elite 30 is completely unique, yet all represent young, developing artistic minds in Baltimore. For the local art lover, it absolutely can’t be overlooked.
In a nutshell, THIRTY is a series of monthly talks honoring Baltimore’s finest artists under 30 years old. At each event, three of 30 artists present their work, leading discussions on everything from specific techniques used to wider-range sociological issues presented in their works. Most astoundingly, though, is the wide range of different genres of art exhibited in these talks. From painting and photography to film and large-scale mural art, these 30 young artists represent the diversity of the Baltimore arts scene today.
According to Michelle Gomez, member of the Program Advisory Committee at Maryland Art Place and founder of the THIRTY talks, the variety of different artists represented was intentional: “I wanted to create a program that not only brought younger artists into Maryland Art Place, but also provided a public platform for young creative minds to talk about their processes, their inspirations and the creative chaos that occurs before the final outcome of their projects.” Gomez, a recent MICA grad, was instrumental in choosing the artists honored, largely selecting them through a thorough application process. These artists had to have a strong work ethic, an impressive portfolio and the passion that made them stand out among Baltimore’s growing arts scene.
For these young artists, THIRTY also means the ability to showcase their work—sometimes for the first time. “We thought this program would be a great way to provide the opportunity to promote their practice and grow their network,” said Gomez, adding “[THIRTY] provides mentorship to the lecturers and the opportunity to network with artists outside of their respective field, allowing for them to support each other and possibly collaborate.”
Not only does THIRTY bring together artists of different genres, it also presents artists at varying degrees in their careers. Some are already well-established local entrepreneurs, while others are still knee-deep in study at universities like MICA. One current undergraduate student and THIRTY honored artist, Alicia Ciambrone, is well on her way to a successful career as a multi-talented fine artist and writer. Recently presenting at the April 10th THIRTY talk, Ciambrone spoke passionately about her innermost creative processes. “When I listen to other artists speak, I’m most interested in the sources they draw their inspiration from,” reflected Ciambrone. “I hope the audience reflect[ed] on what in life sparks their interest and how they put that interest to use.”
Another THIRTY artist, Jim Leach, will have a much different approach during his talk on June 12th. This local sculptor and installation artist is anxious to allow the audience to interpret the meaning behind his work, rather than plainly telling them what to look for. “I hope to provide an art experience for the viewer that goes further than just viewing images and hearing me talk about my work,” said Leach. In this way, he hopes that some audience members may reconsider their preconceived notions about modern art. “I grew up in a culture and in a societal context that was not hesitant to say, ‘I don’t understand modern art.’ I hope that for the people in attendance, I can help to show them that art is obtainable for everyone, regardless of the degree of their access.”
Each THIRTY artist was scheduled by Maryland Art Place to speak alongside other artists that may influence them in some fashion, allowing for collaboration and a deeper intellectual dialogue. Two artists chosen to speak on May 15th, Rebecca Chan and Ginevra Shay, are a good example of this precise planning. Chan, the Project Manager for Station North Arts & Entertainment, Inc., projects her passions into preserving the Station North District’s historically vital arts scene. Just as she does in her career, Chan intends to discuss the importance behind preserving public art, architecture and built environment, “and the ways in which these elements shape our experience and attachment to [Station North].”
Equally passionate in her field, Shay is the Founder and Head of Photo Programming of the Current Space Community Darkroom. A freelance photo archivist and artist, she will speak about the value found in art collaboration within Baltimore. “Art isn’t about being this esoteric or exclusive thing. People are what make an art scene. I hope individuals are inspired to get out and engage with the Baltimore arts community, as I’ve been inspired to do so,” reflected Shay.
As different as they may be, Ciambrone and Shay share a definite appreciation for the preservation of Baltimore’s artistic past. Shay’s thoughts on the ever-changing world of photography will likely be addressed during her talk. “Digital art…is really en vogue right now, but that doesn’t mean people have stopped screen-printing or painting. These processes, like analog photography, are just as viable as ever, and if we don’t maintain the resources to continue practicing them…we could lose them forever,” said Shay.
Once a month until the end of this year, these passionate and influential young artists will be graciously speaking to the community about their work. Ciambrone said it best: “We may be young, but we have a whole lot to say to Baltimore and to one another, and much to gain in the process.” Be sure to visit the Maryland Art Place website for the list of scheduled THIRTY talks, including those speaking next on May 15th at 6pm at Maryland Art Place within the Power Plant Live! complex.
– Liz Harby
