Though a trained choreographer and artist, Sharayna Christmas first describes herself as an “activist and a nurturer” who feels compelled to continue a longstanding tradition of nurturing activism here in Baltimore. The exhibitions and initiatives that she collaboratively curates through her arts collective Necessary Tomorrowsare done with the intention of fusing art and experiential learning environments to uplift and inspire the city’s underserved communities.

In her latest exhibit, inspired by the activism of her own mother, the womanist movement, and the mentorship of elders, Christmas continues the work of highlighting the lives and legacies of black women, teaming with Kibibi Ajanku, curator-in-residence at the Frederick Douglass-Isaac Myers Maritime Museum, to launch We Choose, now on view in the museum’s Bearman Gallery in Fells Point through September 27.

“A lot of the artists that I work with have never been in an exhibition,” says Christmas. “I understand that I was once given an opportunity [and] I try to offer that same kind of support with my programming and the exhibitions that I curate.”

A group exhibition, We Choose showcases multimedia installations, oil and acrylic paintings, textiles, glassworks, photography, and assemblage from a dozen emerging artists whose work elicits distinct perspectives about black womanhood.

“I appreciate that when black women are in the same room, there are so many things that can happen; collaborations, rebirth,” says Christmas. “So here we are bringing together in a different capacity a new show that allows artists to define what ‘We Choose’ means for themselves.”

Those definitions are myriad and complex. In Kayla Morgan’s three-dimensional installation, Rosa The Riveter, the mixed-media artist reimagines the iconic World War I propaganda caricature of a similar name as a black hand that squeezes the muscles of a flexed forearm. The sculpture is set within a frame that is covered in ripped black and red bandanas, raising questions about racial disparities surrounding labor, as well as stereotypes about black and Latinx women’s unflinching strength and seeming invulnerability.

Meanwhile, Jazmine Johnson’s untitled photography installation, unpacks the ways black women’s bodies have historically been leveraged, commoditized, and sacrificed for others’ gain or civil liberties. Each photograph is named for a prominent writer, scholar, or activist, including Sonia Sanchez, Audre Lorde, Zora Neale Hurston, and Maya Angelou. Each depiction is charged with images of black women in the throes of protest and overlaid with text from radical quotes by each woman.

April Daniel Lewis’ black-and-white short film, Black Wash, is installed at the center of Johnson’s photographs. In it, a woman appears to be washing black paint or ink from her hands and arms, but upon closer review, the near 6-minute film is playing in reverse—the woman is washing the black onto her skin, rather than removing it. Lewis’s clever and satirical film flips racist tropes and mythologies that have likened melanin with dirt, and dark complexions with ugliness.

Queen, a subtle acrylic painting from a larger series by Victoria Rouse, turns its attention toward the discrimination that black women with natural hair face in conservative settings. The back of a head full of dreadlocks is surrounded by an ornate golden motif. Rouse’s subject does not confront the gaze of the viewer. Rather, we, the viewers, are confronted by their hair, a metaphoric crown.

We Choose is a small but compelling exhibition that gives a platform to rarely exhibited works by a collection of emerging artists. But the goal of this collection is larger than simply showcasing local art.

“Particularly for the artists, I want people to say, this is how I see myself, and I am sharing that with you without judgement,” says Christmas. “If black women can continue to drop the curtain and see themselves outside of an exhibition, in their own space, in their own mind, in their own spirituality, that would be enough for me.”

Looking to add a bit of culture to your afternoon? There is no shortage of great museums around Baltimore. Whether it’s art, science, history, or a particular famous figure you’re interested in, there’s a place nearby to spend your day wandering and learning.

American Visionary Art Museum

This unique museum celebrating outsider art was named by Congress as the country’s official museum for self-taught art. Come for the elaborate sculptures, gorgeous drawings, and interesting assemblage pieces, then stick around to browse Sideshow, the treasure trove of a museum store downstairs. As a bonus, AVAM is free for federal employees (and up to three others) during the 2019 government shutdown with a valid ID.

For more visionary and local art, try: MICA Galleries, Eubie Blake Cultural Center

Baltimore Museum of Art

This free museum houses a collection of 95,000 works, so you’re sure to find something to interest everyone among its vast collection. Lovers of modern art will want to linger in the galleries housing the famed Cone Collection, while those looking for the more non-traditional can usually find something interesting and extraordinary in the Contemporary Wing or special exhibition galleries. Recent shows have included a John Waters retrospective, surreal visions of some of Europe’s great conflicts, and a look back at the BMA’s first exhibit to feature black artists.

For more art and antiques, try: Maryland Art Place, School 33 Art Center

Reginald F. Lewis Museum of Maryland African-American History & Culture

The Smithsonian-affiliated Reginald F. Lewis Museum is home to art, photographs, sculptures, military antiques, and ephemera chronicling Maryland’s African-American history from 1784 to the present. Although it’s connected to the Smithsonian, the Lewis Museum remains open throughout the shutdown and is offering free admission to furloughed workers and up to three guests with a valid government I.D.

For more African-American history and culture, try: Frederick Douglass-Isaac Myers Maritime Park, National Great Blacks in Wax Museum

The Walters Art Museum

Housed across three buildings (including a historic residence) in Mount Vernon, the Walters features an extensive collection of Asian antiquities and decorative arts. Wander the Chamber of Wonders to experience what a 1600s nobleman might have shown off in his lavish home, or head to the 1 West Mount Vernon Place to see contemporary art placed alongside the preserved architecture of a 19th-century townhouse.

For more historic homes and exhibits, try: The Johns Hopkins Museums, The Star-Spangled Banner Flag House

The Baltimore Museum of Industry

Explore Baltimore’s history as a hub of business and industry at this South Baltimore museum housed in a former cannery. Exhibits include a 1900s garment loft, a recreated soda fountain, a print shop, and a gallery dedicated to how Baltimore fueled the rise of the automobile. Don’t forget to stop by the Baltimore docked outside—she’s the oldest steam-powered tugboat in the United States.

For more transportation and industrial history, try: The B&O Railroad Museum, Baltimore Streetcar Museum

Maryland Historical Society

The MdHS is the state’s oldest, continuously operating cultural institution, having been responsible for documenting Maryland history since 1844. With exhibits featuring figures such as The Catonsville Nine, Elizabeth Patterson Bonaparte, and the Peale Family of painters, this collection is comprised of more than seven million items from pre-Colonial times to the present.

For more great figures from Baltimore’s past, try: The Babe Ruth Birthplace & Museum, Edgar Allan Poe House & Museum

Maryland Science Center

With a history going back to 1797 with the Maryland Academy of Sciences, this Inner Harbor spot has evolved into a family-friendly exploration of the natural world, from the smallest cells to history’s largest creatures. Visitors can also take advantage of Davis Planetarium or catch a movie on the IMAX screen, which will reopen in March after theater renovations are complete.

For more hands-on learning, try: Port Discovery Children’s Museum, Historic Ships in Baltimore

National Aquarium

Plan to spend some serious time at this colorful spot. Beyond the normal fish, rays, and other aquatic critters, you’ll find sloths, puffins, crocodiles, and more scattered across the many habitats housed in this multi-level aquarium. An indoor rainforest, a stories-high shark tank, and a living reef featuring Calypso, a rescued sea turtle, are just a few of the highlights in this gem overlooking the Inner Harbor. Book your timed entry ticket online to avoid long lines, and go first thing in the morning or late in the day to avoid the field trip crowd.

For more nature encounters, try: The Maryland Zoo in Baltimore, Rawlings Conservatory

This year marks the 200th anniversary of the birth of Frederick Douglass, a pioneer whose tireless efforts to abolish American chattel slavery and demand equal voting rights for women and black men laid the foundation for longstanding legislative reforms. Douglass, a renowned orator, abolitionist and author was born a slave in Talbot County Maryland in 1818. Though the exact date of his birth remains unknown, Douglass adopted February 14 as his birthday.

On Thursday, October 18, the Frederick Douglass-Isaac Myers Maritime Museum will celebrate the opening of Frederick Douglass Bicentennial, an intimate art exhibition that honors his life and legacy. Curated by Kibibi Ajanku, the exhibition features a broad selection of imaginative portraits rendered by accomplished illustrator Ed Towles.

“[Douglass] walked the streets of Baltimore and did light-hearted things with a serious intent,” Ajanku noted. “I wanted to speak to that and was looking for an opportunity to celebrate his bicentennial through the art of an African-American artist who also has some legacy and connection to the city.”

Frederick Douglass Bicentennial prominently exhibits revised portraits of Douglass from key moments in his personal life and career with an aesthetic that highlights Towles’ broad design expertise: illustration, letterpress, offset poster, digital print, linoleum cut print, typography, and ceramic tile painting. The Pennsylvania-born, Baltimore-based artist emphasizes the artisanship of printmaking and what he calls “ad-libbing illustration” to realize rarely seen portrayals of black icons like Douglass, his family, and abolitionist allies.

“Part of the process is around self-exploration,” Towles shared. “I am a designer. I have to keep working at my craft and exploring. Sometimes a show forces your hand. [Douglass] was an early subject for me. I did a print in 1975. As a black man, he represented what we should be or strive towards. Harriet Tubman was a major influence, too. Their efforts were the same in trying to liberate black folks.”

By highlighting lesser known moments in Douglass’ life, Towles transcends familiar representations of Douglass as a stoic, solitary figure. In Lincoln and Douglass (2018), a digital print, Towles superimposes an image of the white house overtop red and blue stylized pop art portraits of President Abraham Lincoln and Douglass to depict their 1864 discussion to abolish slavery. Planting the Seeds of Freedom (2018), a large colored pencil portrait, features an interesting three-quarter image of a young Douglass lost in thought. Scenes of his harrowing escape from slavery emerge from his recognizable afro. In another portrait, Anna Murray Douglass and Family, (2018) Towles renders a distinguished likeness of Douglass’ wife and extended family in colored pencil.

Towles has extensive experience working as a professional designer for major publications including Black Enterprise, EBONY, Record World, and the now-defunct Crisis Magazine, as well as collaborating with prominent contemporary artists like Romare Bearden.

“There is a thread to the work that underlies all these themes,” Towles said. “Social issues [have] always been a part of the work. I wanted to imagine Frederick Douglass in a different way. His history is so profound you can’t cover it all in 20 pieces.”

Five things to eat, drink, see, hear, and do with your Charm City weekend.

 EAT

Feb. 16-18: Chinese New Year

The Elephant, 924 N. Charles St. 5 p.m.-12 a.m. 443-447-7878. 

If you’re ready to hit the refresh button after the first 44 days of 2018, start the year over with a Chinese New Year-inspired main course at The Elephant. This weekend at the historic mansion in Mount Vernon, executive chef Orlando Amaro is serving up peking duck, a famously celebratory dish with Beijing roots. Prepared five days in advance with a perfectly crisp crust, this dish guarantees a positive start to the year of the dog.

 DRINK

To Feb. 18: Union Pinewood Derby

Union Craft Brewing, 1700 Union Ave. 12-5 p.m. $5-10. 410-467-0290.

This Sunday, put your cub, boy, and Eagle scout merit badges to the test and head to Union Craft Brewing to compete in an old-fashioned pinewood derby. Yes, we’re talking about the wooden toy race cars that prevailed in the ’50s, so ride this wave of nostalgia and grab a build kit, make a racer, and run it down their 40-foot derby track. Racers can design their cars however they want—shaped like a beer bottle, sporting the Maryland flag, or mirroring the Batman mobile—and compete to win a trophy and a can of every 2018 special release beer. If you’d rather watch the four-wheeled waggery from the sidelines, grab a few Duckpins and soak up the suds with signature wood-fired pies by Well Crafted Pizza.

 SEE

Feb. 17: Baltimore’s Legends & Legacies Jubilee

Frederick Douglass-Isaac Myers Maritime Park and Museum, 1417 Thames St. 12-4 p.m. Free. 410-685-0295.

This week, Governor Larry Hogan officially proclaimed 2018 as the “Year of Frederick Douglass,” a fitting move since the father of the civil rights movement turned 200 this year. His birthday celebration continues this Saturday at Baltimore’s Legends & Legacies Jubilee, where visitors can check out interactive exhibits from local museums, sample eats from Popsations and Connie’s Chicken and Waffles, and get an up-close look at the new Frederick Douglass wax figure. Another local legend, Baltimore’s own Davon Fleming, who stole our hearts during his time on NBC’s The Voice, will host a singing competition for any brave challengers.

 HEAR

Feb. 16: Classical Music for People with Short Attention Spans

WTMD, 1 Olympic Pl., Towson. 8-10:30 p.m. $12-15. 410-704-8938.

If you get antsy and bored during a 2-hour classical music program, don’t worry, you’re not alone. Classical Revolution Baltimore, a collective of musicians that performs classical music in non-traditional spaces, is pairing up with WTMD to present a program that’s perfect for people with short attention spans. In this “Cliffs Notes of Classical Music,” hear the most notable parts of well-known classical pieces (think Mozart’s “Lacrimosa” and Beethoven’s “Symphony No. 7”) featuring performances from local artists Pique Collective, Outcalls, and Dominic Shodekeh Talifero. If you can’t make the performance, tune into the live broadcast on 89.7 to hear this one-of-a-kind mix of classical and contemporary ensembles.

 DO

Feb. 16-17: Frozen Harbor Music Festival

Locations & times vary. $20-120. 443-579-7766.

We might be weeks away from warm weather and music festival season, but we can always count on the Frozen Harbor Music Festival to start the party early. With a forecast of cloudy skies, rain, and snow on Saturday, the harbor will indeed be frozen while this 2-day festival hosts 160 acts across 10 stages downtown. Build an itinerary, map out your weekend, and hop from venue to venue to catch local and national artists, including big names like Keller Williams and George Clinton and Maryland favorites like Jimmie’s Chicken Shack and Sam Grow. 

Former Secretary of State and presidential candidate Hillary Clinton spoke at a fundraising event for a leadership training program in Baltimore, saying that the world needs to “reach out to one another, to lift each other up” in response to the most recent terror attacks in London and Manchester.

Clinton, who didn’t mention President Donald Trump by name, openly criticized his policies to a packed crowd at the Frederick Douglass-Isaac Myers Maritime Park in Fells Point on Monday, June 5.

“It’s a time for steady, determined leadership, like we are seeing from local authorities in London, including the mayor of London,” Clinton said. “It’s even more important that we work with our allies and partners. Yes, to keep us safe, but also to expand our understanding of what we can achieve together.”

Clinton’s speech was less focused on politics and more on the youth program that Congressman Elijah Cummings created in 1998, calling it “a labor of love,” and stressing the importance of citizenship.

“It has never been more important for young Americans to see themselves as part of a global community,” she said. “One that works together to confront challenges, and promote peace and understanding across all the lines that divide us.”

The purpose of Elijah Cummings Youth Program in Israel (ECYP) is to build and strengthen the ties between the Jewish and African American communities. In conjunction with the Baltimore Jewish Council, the program provides leadership and community service training—as well as a three-week trip to Israel—for 12 high school students within Cummings’ 7th district of Maryland.

Since its inception, ECYP has worked with more than 200 students in Baltimore, exposing them to life management skills, leadership workshops, community service, and social and political activism. The participants of the two-year fellowship have had a 100-percent high school graduation rate, with 98 percent graduating from college.

Clinton and other leaders spoke on Monday night in front of a sold-out crowd of public officials, board members, donors, and students and the event raised more than $200,000 for the program.

Victor Blackwell—Baltimore native, CNN anchor, and ECYP class of 1998 alum—attributes his success to Cummings and encourages the current fellows to make the most of the experiences.

“Go with your eyes, and your mind, and your heart wide open,” he urged while emceeing Monday night’s event. “It made me a better man. It made me a better journalist.”

Howard Libit, executive director of the Baltimore Jewish Council, said he has seen positive results of the partnership and is proud to have a role in it.

“When I see the alumni of the program, they have become leaders in the community,” he said. “They are just remarkable.”

Congressman Cummings, who underwent minimally invasive heart surgery on May 24, was not in attendance but appeared in a pre-recorded video message instead.

“I’m here at Johns Hopkins Hospital. I had to get a tune-up,” he joked. “This is a time where we need to come together to celebrate the lives of our children. Our children are the living messages that we send to a future we will never see.”

Cummings, who personally interviews every applicant for the program, delivered a special message for the incoming fellows, who leave for Israel on July 2.

“I want you all to know that you have a future. We see you all on your way to a great level of destiny,” he said. “We want your development and your destiny to come together for you to become the person you want to be.”

Current fellow and Baltimore City College junior MiKayla Young listened to the message from Cummings with admiration. She was initially hesitant to apply to the program, but now says it’s the best thing she’s ever done.

“Being here, and listening to Congressman Cummings and Secretary Clinton speak to me is unreal,” she said. “I’m so inspired by them to go out and make a change in the world, and that’s what I’m going to do.”

Clinton wasn’t the only fiery, female politician speaking at the event—Senator Barbara Mikulski addressed the crowd in typical “Babs” fashion. She began by mentioning Congressman Cummings’ absence, insisting “there’s nothing wrong with Elijah’s heart.”

“If you know him like I do, he has one of the biggest hearts in Maryland, and one of the strongest hearts in America,” she continued.

Clinton expressed appreciation for Mikulski and thanked local constituents for continuously sending the senator back to Washington D.C. Likewise, Mikulski echoed Clinton’s sentiments and also took a few jabs at President Trump without mentioning him directly by name.

“The theme for this fundraiser is building bridges and building leaders,” she said. “Boy, don’t we need that now.”

The current fellows, who are now finishing their junior year of high school, will travel to Israel in less than a month to experience a new culture with children of similar ages. Director of ECYP Kathleen St. Villier explained that the selected students are a unique group that will become “global ambassadors” upon their return.

“They are tasked to go out in the community and share their stories,” she said. “They will continue to do community service and grow as leaders.”

Clinton concluded the event by praising Cummings for his dedication to the youth of Baltimore and a call to action for all in attendance.

“This is the kind of commitment that really represents America best. And we need to do so much more,” she said. “We need find ways to serve, and to be the best citizens we can be to support the next generation.”