Baltimore’s Public Art Commission has entered a new chapter with the recent swearing-in of fresh members by Mayor Brandon Scott, marking the first major overhaul of the panel in years. This diverse group brings expertise in visual arts, law, urban planning, and more, signaling a renewed commitment to public art and cultural identity in the city. The commission, which oversees permanent installations on city property, will guide future projects while also addressing the preservation and relocation of existing works. With notable figures like sculptor Mary Ann Mears and curator Amy Eva Raehse joining the ranks, the reinvigorated commission aims to enhance civic engagement through creative expression and inclusive decision-making.

A Fresh Vision for Public Art Leadership

The newly appointed Public Art Commission introduces a wave of diverse perspectives and professional backgrounds aimed at reshaping how Baltimore approaches its artistic legacy and future endeavors. This shift is part of a broader initiative by Mayor Scott to strengthen ties with the local arts community, evidenced by the creation of the Mayor’s Office of Art, Culture and Entertainment (MOACE) and collaboration with Create Baltimore. The commission’s expanded scope includes reviewing proposals for permanent installations, evaluating requests for artwork relocation or restoration, and ensuring that maintenance plans accompany each project. By bringing together professionals from fields such as sculpture, curation, law, and civil engineering, the city aims to foster a more holistic approach to urban aesthetics and cultural stewardship.

The 2025–2028 commission reflects a deliberate effort to diversify leadership and enrich the dialogue around public art in Baltimore. Among the new appointees are sculptor Mary Ann Mears, who helped shape Maryland’s Public Art Bill, and Stanley Mazaroff, an art historian and philanthropist known for his generous contributions to the Baltimore Museum of Art. Their combined experience underscores a vision that values both historical context and contemporary innovation. Additionally, returning members like muralist Jaz Erenberg and landscape architect Evan Richardson ensure continuity while infusing fresh energy into the commission’s mission. This strategic blend of newcomers and seasoned voices positions the Public Art Commission to navigate complex decisions with a balanced and informed perspective, ultimately enhancing the city’s cultural fabric.

Shaping Baltimore’s Cultural Landscape Through Art and Policy

Beyond aesthetic considerations, the Public Art Commission plays a pivotal role in shaping Baltimore’s cultural narrative through policy, advocacy, and collaborative initiatives. The panel not only reviews proposed artworks but also deliberates on their placement, upkeep, and long-term impact on communities. Recent examples include discussions about relocating statues tied to controversial histories and approving new memorials that reflect the city’s evolving identity. The commission’s influence extends to educational outreach, public engagement, and partnerships with institutions like the Baltimore Museum of Art and Create Baltimore, reinforcing its status as a key player in the city’s creative ecosystem. As the commission resumes regular meetings, its focus remains on fostering inclusivity, preserving heritage, and championing public spaces as platforms for artistic expression.

With its renewed mandate, the Public Art Commission is poised to tackle pressing questions surrounding representation, accessibility, and the intersection of art with social justice. Notable among the incoming members is Rashida Bumbray, whose background in curatorial work and social justice programming adds depth to the commission’s discourse. Her involvement aligns with broader efforts to address racial disparities within the arts community and promote equitable access to cultural resources. Similarly, City Council member Ryan Dorsey brings a legislative perspective, advocating for policies that support artists across diverse backgrounds. Meanwhile, professionals like engineer Makeda Drake and planner Shanek Kumi ensure that technical feasibility and urban integration remain central to every decision. As the commission embarks on this transformative phase, its actions will continue to influence how Baltimore residents interact with their environment, celebrate their history, and envision their collective future through art.