Baker Artist Portfolios

Congratulations to the 36 Finalists for the 2026 Baker Artists Awards

From over 1000 portfolios on the website, these 36 Baltimore-area artists were selected by a pool of 12 regional jurors for demonstrating excellence in three areas: mastery of craft, depth of artistic exploration, and a unique vision. Baker Artist Award Finalists are divided equally amongst the website’s six artistic disciplines. 

Click here to view the full press release!

Visual ArtVisual Arts - 2D: Schroeder Cherry, Joan Cox, Erin Fostel, Lusmerlin, Tony Shore, James Williams II 

Visual Arts - 3D: Thea Canlas, David Friedheim, Stephanie Garmey, David Hess, McCormack and Figg, Mary Deacon Opasik

Interdisciplinary Art: Collis Donadio, Phylicia Ghee, Kei Ito, Soledad Salame, Wickerham & Lomax, Lite Zhang

Film & Photography: Albert Birney, Alaina Lurry, Amy Oden, Be Steadwell, Lendl Tellington, Lynn Tomlinson

Literary Arts: Michael Downs, Ashley Elizabeth, Edgar Kunz, Don Lee, Bry Reed, Justin Sirois

Performing Arts: Alex and Olmsted, Carly J. Bales, Alex Lacquement, MESHELLE "The Indie Mom of Comedy", Jamal Moore, Mark Navarro

Click on the names above or scroll down to the grid below to explore finalists' portfolios!

Finalist Showcases 

Throughout April and May these free, public events, which include screenings, readings, and an exhibition, give Baltimore-area audiences the opportunity to experience the amazing work of many 2026 Finalists. 
 

Showcasing Baker Literary Finalists

Saturday, April 11, 1-2pm as part of CityLit Festival at Maryland Center for History and Culture

Moderated by: Aaron Henkin

2026 Baker Artist Awards Finalist Exhibition 

Friday, April 17 - Sunday, May 17 at Current Space 
Opening Reception: Friday, April 17, 7-10pm & Closing Reception: Sunday May 17, 4-6pm (With artist talks) 
 

2026 Film Finalist Showcase

Saturday, May 2, 11am as part of MdFF Day at The SNF Parkway Theatre
 

2026 Baker Artist Awards Finalist Playlist

Coming Soon! Stay tuned for more information on where to find it and how you can listen. 

CLICK HERE for more detailed event information and the latest updates!