Maryland State Wire

The Baltimore Museum of Art (BMA) achieved a significant fundraising milestone, collecting $1 million during its 110th anniversary celebrations. The event, which took place on November 23, attracted more than 400 guests for the BMA Ball and an additional 200 attendees at the After Party. Funds raised will support the museum's artistic and educational programs, including the Turn Again to the Earth environmental initiative.

Notable figures in attendance included Maryland Governor Wes Moore and First Lady Dawn Moore, former Governor Martin O'Malley and Katie O'Malley, and former Baltimore Mayor Kurt Schmoke with Dr. Patricia Schmoke. Artists such as Derrick Adams, John Akomfrah, LaToya Ruby Frazier, and John Waters were also present.

A highlight of the evening was the presentation of inaugural awards to artists John Akomfrah and LaToya Ruby Frazier. Sherrilyn Ifill received the first Changemaker Who Inspires Award. R&B artist John Legend contributed with a video message for Ifill and performed a rendition of "Happy Birthday" for the BMA.

Governor Wes Moore emphasized the role of arts in state development during his speech. Guests enjoyed dinner by Linwoods before dancing continued into the night at an after-party led by DJ Tanz.

James D. Thornton, Chair of BMA Board of Trustees, expressed gratitude: “We are enormously grateful to the many people who contributed to the success of the evening—our hard-working staff, our superb vendors, and especially our guests whose enthusiasm for the BMA gave a palpable energy to the event.” Asma Naeem added that funds would help expand educational programs.

The event received generous support from various individuals and corporate sponsors including The Shelter Foundation, J.P. Morgan Chase & Co., The Baltimore Sun, Brown Capital Management among others.

Founded in 1914, BMA continues its mission through exhibitions and programs that explore diverse art narratives. It houses over 97,000 objects including significant works by Henri Matisse.