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From shucking raw oysters to the smell of Old Bay to arts festivals, the summer is the best season in Maryland for me! It’s also the time when I eagerly await one of Baltimore's eclectic traditions - Fluid Movement's community water ballet. As offbeat as the group appears to an outsider, it is the essence of inclusivity. Every summer, people of all ages, genders, races, talents, and abilities get together for a synchronized swimming routine themed around the city. Each performance ends with a shouted invitation to let the audience know they're welcome to take part next time.

This is what I love about living in Baltimore—our state's wondrous arts scenes—and what I have truly admired over my first year as a member of the MSAC team. I feel incredibly privileged to be with MSAC, where inclusivity is not an empty statement but one that is central to our work and embraced by all. Since joining the team, I have fallen in love with our state all over again by continuing to learn about all of the incredible arts and culture, created by all of you, in every corner of Maryland.

As I sign off, I will recycle the speech made famous by Baz Luhrmann's performance, which reminds us to wear sunscreen. And of course, Happy Pride!

Abby Neyenhouse

Arts Capital Program Director

Now accepting applications

Artist Hope McCorkle chatting at her SCOUT Art Fair booth, part of this year's Artscape (Baltimore City).

News and updates

New council leadership next month

Paige Hernandez and Kathy Beachler were recently appointed as Chair and Vice Chair of our council and will assume their roles in July. Congratulations!

Opportunity Grant cycles updated

Heads up: this fiscal year, the Professional Development Opportunity Grant will offer two application openings: from July to August, and from January to February.

Three new panelist calls
Have you checked our Ways to Get Involved page lately? We have public calls open now! Apply now and get paid up to $775 to evaluate grant applications.

New film alert: Black Storytelling

Our Maryland Traditions program released a new short documentary film on YouTube, highlighting the Folklife Apprenticeship of Linda Goss (pictured) and Patricia Smart.

In the field

Celebrating a decade of arts impact in Silver Spring

Carpe Diem Arts recently celebrated its 10-year anniversary, which also coincided with the retirement of its Founder and Executive Director, Busy Graham. Arts Services Program Director Emily Sollenberger (second from right) was able to join the celebration for an evening of community events, vibrant showcases, and heartfelt well wishes.

Accessibility statement

The Maryland State Arts Council is committed to making sure all Marylanders can access its programs and services. Please visit our Accessibility page for more information. If you have further questions or require accommodations, fill out the Accommodations Request Form or contact our Office Secretary at msac.commerce@maryland.gov.