Application

City & State Agencies

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Deadline: Apr 24, 2026 11:59 pm (GMT-04:00) Eastern Time (US & Canada)
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Date: May 23, 2026 10:00 am - May 24, 2026 9:00 pm (EDT)
place
Baltimore, Maryland
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Free

About the application

Artscape invites city and state agencies to actively participate in this dynamic festival by hosting interactive exhibits, sharing resources, and engaging directly with the community. Agency involvement provides a unique opportunity to connect with residents and visitors in an accessible, creative environment while highlighting public services, initiatives, and programs. By participating, agencies can strengthen community relationships, increase public awareness, and contribute to a vibrant, collaborative celebration that reflects the region’s diversity and civic pride.

About the event

ARTSCAPE 2026: BOLD. TRANSFORMATIVE. UNAPOLOGETICALLY BALTIMORE. Artscape is more than a festival—it’s a force. A dynamic collision of art, culture, and community impact, transforming Baltimore into a living, breathing canvas of creativity. For over 40 years, Artscape has been a catalyst for artistic expression, economic impact, and cultural transformation. Now, as part of Mayor Scott’s Downtown Rise Initiative, Artscape is moving into the heart of Downtown Baltimore, reimagining how a weekend festival can fuel long-term impact through creative placemaking and sustainable community investment. In 2023, we redefined the festival model—Artscape became a tool for city transformation, turning underutilized spaces into vibrant hubs of artistic energy. In 2025, we went even further, delivering immersive public art, high-impact installations, and curated experiences that elevate and celebrate Baltimore’s creative industry like never before. Now in 2026, were are perfecting everything we took a chance on last year. Join us! PROGRAM HIGHLIGHTS: Scout Art Fair – This bold art showcase at the War Memorial Building will present 50+ emerging and established artists, immersive installations, and cutting-edge cultural programming. Sondheim Exhibition – A premier visual arts exhibition featuring the work of the semi-finalists for the prestigious Janet & Walter Sondheim Art Prize, an award that recognizes the best talent in contemporary art in the Baltimore region. In Conversation Series – A curated dialogue series featuring unexpected pairings of thought leaders, artists, and cultural visionaries engaging in provocative discussions on the future of the arts, technology, culture, and creative economies—challenging perspectives and inspiring new ideas. Beyond the Reel – A new program track spotlighting the intersection of cinema, television, and digital storytelling that includes screenings, panel discussions, and filmmaker showcases, which celebrate the impact of Baltimore’s film and television industry. The Flavor Lab – A culinary experience celebrating Baltimore’s rich food culture, featuring top chefs, food innovators, and immersive dining experiences. Kidscape – A family-friendly activation designed to engage young audiences through hands-on art experiences, performances, and interactive storytelling. Artscape After Dark – The festival comes alive at night with electrifying performances, DJ sets, and avant-garde installations, creating an after-hours experience unlike any other. Public Space Renewed - Through a blend of public art, lighting installations, green spaces, and immersive experiences, this initiative will revitalize the underpasses beneath the Jones Falls Expressway (JFX), turning them into artist-led, community-driven spaces.
Create Baltimore
Create Baltimore
Create Baltimore
Create Baltimore

Terms & Conditions

City and state agencies selected to participate in Artscape agree to the following terms and conditions:

1. **Participation Requirements**
   Agencies must provide an engaging, family-friendly, and interactive exhibit or activity that aligns with the festival’s mission of promoting arts, culture, and community engagement. All materials and programming must be appropriate for a diverse public audience.

2. **Compliance with Laws and Regulations**
   Participating agencies are responsible for complying with all applicable local, state, and federal laws, regulations, and safety requirements, including accessibility standards and public health guidelines.

3. **Space Usage and Setup**
   Agencies will be assigned a designated space by festival organizers. All displays, equipment, and materials must fit within the assigned area. Setup and breakdown must occur within scheduled times provided by the festival.

4. **Staffing and Operations**
   Agencies must ensure their exhibit is staffed at all times during festival hours by knowledgeable representatives who can effectively engage with attendees.

5. **Prohibited Activities**
   Sales of goods or services, political campaigning, and activities unrelated to public service or community engagement are not permitted unless explicitly authorized by festival organizers.

6. **Insurance and Liability**
   Agencies are responsible for their own equipment and materials. Participation signifies agreement to hold harmless the festival organizers, host city, and partners from any claims, damages, or losses arising from the agency’s participation, to the extent permitted by law.

7. **Marketing and Branding**
   Agencies may display approved branding and informational materials. Use of the Artscape name and logo must comply with festival branding guidelines and receive prior approval.

8. **Sustainability and Waste Management**
   Agencies are encouraged to minimize waste and use environmentally responsible materials. All participants must maintain a clean space and properly dispose of waste.

9. **Photography and Media Release**
   By participating, agencies acknowledge that festival organizers may photograph or record exhibits and activities for promotional and archival purposes.

10. **Cancellation and Changes**
    Festival organizers reserve the right to modify event details or cancel participation due to unforeseen circumstances. Agencies must notify organizers promptly if they are unable to attend.

11. **Agreement to Terms**
    Submission of participation confirmation constitutes acceptance of these terms and conditions.

 

These guidelines are intended to ensure a safe, inclusive, and successful experience for all participants and attendees.

Questions on the application

Business information

  • Business name
  • Legal business name
  • Contact name
  • Address
  • Email
  • Phone
  • Website (Optional)
  • Logo (Optional)

Additional information

  • Provide a brief description of the exhibit, activity, or information your agency intends to present at Artscape.

Picture requirements

  • Minimum pictures required: 0
City & State Agencies
City & State Agencies
Artscape 2026