Art Space is a recurring element in the UpFront section of our print publication that spotlights a local art project making an impact in the city at large. Here’s what’s going on this month:

Sandra Gibson was in the midst of planning the 2020 Maryland Film Festival when the pandemic hit. Her team ultimately moved the whole thing online, but at the time, she had no idea that the 2021 festival (from May 19-27) would also have to go virtual. On the plus side, this unusual year has given her lots of time to reimagine the Parkway Theatre and its role in both the Station North community and all of Baltimore.

First of all, how did last year’s virtual fest go?
For a bootstrap thing, we think it went extraordinarily well. It was a brand-new platform. We were inventing as we went. We had 17 feature films. 150 filmmakers. 15 blocks of shorts. [We had] world, North American, and Baltimore premieres. We had a few thousand people participate. All 50 states. We hadn’t had that kind of participation before, so the reach was greatly expanded.

What made you decide to go virtual again this year?
It was an agonizing decision. We just didn’t believe it would be safe enough, that audiences would be comfortable enough, or that we’d actually be able to open at enough of a capacity to have the festival in-person. Plus, the Maryland Institute College of Art told us they weren’t inviting anyone onto their campus, and we use their facilities, so that sort of made the decision for us.

But it will still be a great festival. You have to create the excitement differently. We’re adding family programming. We’re looking for spaces to do drive-in screenings. There will be more in-depth conversations. There will be surprises. I don’t have the [full] lineup yet, but we’ll probably have 32 events like we did last year, and we’ve extended it through the 27th for extra viewing time. It’s a lot to go through. But you can actually watch everything in nine days, if you’re truly committed.

You’re in the midst of making a lot of changes to the Parkway, too.
The plan is to fully activate the entire building—really set it up to do exhibitions, installations, small public art pieces. Things that provide extra context and give people a reason to drop by. We’re trying to be more community responsive, more socially engaged. We’ve sort of coined this as “art house plus”—the best of art house, the best of a contemporary art museum. We’re going to be launching a center for moving image. We’ll still have our theatrical releases, but it’s going to be plussed up in a way that is not only inviting but fits our community.

How do you make the Parkway a place where everyone feels at home year-round?
It all comes down to community programming. How do we build programs that feature the themes and ideas that matter to the people that live in our area? You have to be in the community. You have to be conversant and interested in where the community’s at, and support the community in its effort, its demands, its needs, and its growth and evolution. That work takes time. We’re starting to get on that path. We’re building a community advisory panel. [Filmmaker] Radha Blank said it best—we were premiering an episode of Netflix’s She’s Gotta Have It that hadn’t been released yet, and she got up and said, “The Parkway is my birthright.” If you don’t feel comfortable here, make it your own. You have to do that. This place belongs to you.

EAT

April 17: The Charmery “Chef’s Signature Flavor” Collaboration with Clavel

Multiple locations including 801 W. 36th St. $11.

If you’re looking for a surefire way to spark a little joy during quarantine, ice cream is the answer. Not only is The Charmery offering its whimsical flavors for delivery and curbside pickup at its Hampden and Towson locations, but husband-and-wife owners David and Laura Alima are continuing to dream up fun ways to give love to their fellow hospitality workers during this time of need. Beginning this Friday, the duo will launch a new series called “Chef’s Signature Flavor,” in which they whip up a limited number of pints of a local chef’s favorite variety. The Alimas’ buddy Carlos Raba of Clavel is up first, collaborating on a Rosac Con Su Mezcal flavor that highlights strawberry, hibiscus, lime, and mezcal. Each pint costs $11 with $1 of all sales benefitting The Charmery’s scooper fund, and another dollar donated to the Clavel employee fund. If you can’t grab a mezcal pint before sellout, stay tuned for the next collaboration with Chef Opie Crooks of A Rake’s Progress.

DRINK

April 17: Union Tour and Taste Live!

Facebook Live. 4-5 p.m. Free.

Switch up your virtual happy hour plans this Friday and join Union Craft Brewing co-founder Jon Zerivitz on Instagram Live for a behind-the-scenes tour of the brewery. Crack open a cold can of Duckpin and follow along as Zerivitz talks through the style, aroma, and tasting notes of fan-favorite brews like the Duckpin Pale Ale and Steady Eddie IPA. Stock up on six packs before the happy hour with delivery, dockside pickup, or by grabbing from your favorite local liquor store.

SEE

April 17-18: MICA MFA Thesis Film Virtual Showcase 2020

7 p.m. http://micafilmmaking.org. Free.

Though MICA’s MFA filmmaking class of 2020 won’t be able to screen their thesis films in front of a live audience for the time being, students remain excited to get the projects they’ve worked long and hard on out into the world. In collaboration with the SNF Parkway Theatre, the films will be screened on three different platforms, including the MICA film program website and the Parkway’s Facebook page, beginning with the first half on Friday, April 17 at 7 p.m. The second half will premiere on Saturday, April 18 at 7 p.m. Kick back and enjoy five documentaries, three dramas, and three horror films, and be sure to stick around for live Q&A sessions with the filmmakers after the broadcast.

HEAR

April 18: Qlub Q Dance Party With DJ Rob Macy

9-11 p.m. Zoom. Free.

We might not be able to go out, but that won’t stop stir-crazy Baltimoreans from attending a DIY dance party. Break out your laptop to break it down at the virtual Club Quarantine with DJ Rob Macy of the famous Save Your Soul Dance Party. After you shimmy, shake, and dance the night away, throw a few dollars in the virtual tip jar and check back each week to see which Charm City DJ is spinning next.

DO

April 17: Earth Treks Virtual Rendezvous

6-10 p.m. Facebook Live and Zoom. Free.

Unfortunately there’s no virtual alternative to bouldering with your buddies at this Hampden climbing gym, but the Earth Treks team has put together a jam-packed evening of online activities that evoke the gym’s communal spirit. After pre-registering, hop on Facebook Live for a HIIT class with instructor Jenna Scott before a dance party with beats spun by Union beertender and DJ dagm, a group trivia game, and a collective watch party of the sci-fi classic Tremors, with commentary encouraged in the Zoom chat box.

EAT

Aug. 24: Camp Sandlot

Sandlot, 1000 Wills St. Sat. 7 p.m.-Sun. 10 a.m. $30-60.

If you had “eat s’mores” or “go camping” on your summer bucket list, look no further than this overnight campout at Sandlot. Grab a tent, grill, and sleeping bag for this first-ever event that invites attendees to camp out on the Harbor Point bar’s volleyball courts and waterfront beach. Spend the evening roasting weenies and marshmallows under the stars, and then indulge in an a la carte pancake breakfast before heading back to the comfort of the indoors.

DRINK

Aug. 24: Vent’s First Anniversary Party

Vent Coffee Roasters, 1700 W. 41st St. 6-11 p.m. $10.

Somehow, it has already been a year since this do-good coffee roaster moved into its first brick-and-mortar space in Union Collective. This Saturday, the Vent team is celebrating with a caffeine-fueled anniversary party complete with free espresso shots, coffee cocktails, and $1 cold brews or drip cups to benefit Baltimore Ceasefire 365. To balance out the java intake, sip on beers by Union Craft Brewing, snack on cupcakes from City Seeds, and, at the end of the night, raise a glass of bubbly to another year of kick-ass coffee.

SEE

Aug. 23: Honeyland Screening and Tasting

The SNF Parkway, 5 W. North Avenue. 6:30-9:30 p.m. $8-11.

We can always count on the Parkway Theatre to not only play some of the most-talked-about films and documentaries, but to also find creative ways to transform a screening into a community-wide event. This Friday’s showing of Honeyland, an award-winning environmental documentary about the last female wild beekeeper in Europe, is no exception. Before the 7 p.m. movie, try honey samples from local business Hon’s Honey and grab a honey-based drink from Charm City Meadworks and Baltimore Spirits Company.

HEAR

Aug. 25: The Union Shakedown

Union Craft Brewing, 1700 W. 41st St. 1-10 p.m. $20.

It’s always a party when revered local guitarist Cris Jacobs plays at Union Craft Brewing, but this Sunday’s vendor fair and concert mash-up takes it to a whole new level. After spending a few hours browsing through locally made wares such as handmade glass pieces, vintage T-shirts, and vinyl records, pack the brewery to hear a group of singer-songwriters, including the likes of Grahame Lesh, Elliott Peck, and Nathan Graham, join Jacobs onstage for a recreation of their 1982 concert at the Baltimore Civic Center. If that’s not enough to get your attention, there will also be a liquid light show throughout the rockin’ concert.

DO

Aug. 25: Field Day

Charm City Meadworks, 400 E. Biddle St. 12-5 p.m. Free.

Who says there’s no place for sack races and water balloon tosses in adulthood? On Saturday, Charm City Meadworks and Graft Cider will host this end-of-summer field day, featuring team activities like tug of war, dizzy bat, and egg spoon races that are sure to trudge up some (possibly embarrassing) middle school memories. In between relays, enjoy eats by From the Heart food truck, sip on a collaboration mead from the host purveyors, and get in line to attempt to sink City Council President Brandon Scott and Councilwoman Danielle McCray in the dunk tank.

EAT

June 1: Taste of 3 Cities

Patterson Park, 2800 Eastern Ave. 12-9 p.m. $10-65.

Named one of the top 10 festivals in the Old Line State, this all-day food truck frenzy at Patterson Park is guaranteed to leave you stuffed and satisfied. Now in its eighth year, this fan-favorite fest will have all sorts of local eats—from tzatziki to tacos to ice cream—as well as live music from regional bands like Squaring the Circle and Muskrat Lighting, special activities for the kiddos, and even hot air balloon rides.

DRINK

June 1: TC40 Summerfest

Diamondback Beer, 1215 E. Fort Ave. 12-7 p.m. Free.

Since the city has already been hit with sweltering heat and almost-daily rain showers, we’re ready to declare summer’s arrival a few weeks early. To kick off the season, Diamondback Beer is throwing a mini music festival on its outdoor patio, with sets from locals like acoustic singer-songwriter Ray Wroten, funky-folk act Gene & Friends, and blues and reggae band Ray Wroten & The Revolvers. But the real star of the afternoon festivities is the Locust Point brewery’s latest beer: Marty Says, a lightly hopped cream ale brewed with German pilsner malt. Pair the new brew with onsite eats from Dooby’s, The Urban Oyster, and Hull Street Blues Café.

SEE

May 31-June 2: The Monument Quilt on the National Lawn

The National Mall, Washington D.C. Fri. 1-9 p.m., Sat. 9 a.m.-9 p.m., Sun. 9 a.m.- 4 p.m. Free.

For the past five years, survivors of sexual and intimate partner violence from across the country have created more than 3,000 quilt squares that, when displayed together, spell out “NOT ALONE” and “NO ESTAS SOLX” over the length of four football fields. Known as the Monument Quilt, this project from Baltimore-based nonprofit FORCE: Upsetting Rape Culture is the largest monument ever dedicated to survivors of sexual and domestic violence and will blanket the National Lawn starting Friday afternoon. Make the quick trip to Washington, D.C. for this momentous weekend dedicated to sharing survivors’ stories on the national stage, and participate in workshops, listen to speakers, and attend a self-defense workshop while you’re in town.

HEAR

May 31: Rocketman: Elton John Karaoke

The Parkway Theatre, 5 W. North Ave. 8:30-10:30 p.m. Free-$11.

With plenty of buzz already circulating about the musical biopic on the fantastical life of Sir Elton John, it’s no wonder the SNF Parkway is celebrating the movie’s debut with an all-out karaoke party. Whether you’re attending the 7 or 9:45 p.m. screening, stop by the Parkway Lounge to join in on a rendition of “Tiny Dancer” or “Don’t Go Breaking My Heart” with other fans decked out in The Rocket Man’s signature funky glasses and glittery jackets. Before heading into the theater, read our review of this surefire hit.

DO

June 1-2: Feast of St. Anthony

Saint Leo’s Catholic Church, 227 S. Exeter St. Sat. 12-8 p.m., Sun. 11 a.m.-7 p.m. $1.

This outdoor festival marks the start of summer in Little Italy, as its streets are packed with neighbors and visitors delighting in a weekend filled with enough carbs and wine to last the year. Indulge in authentic Italian food, participate in the bocce tournament or cannoli-filling contest, and walk in Sunday’s neighborhood parade to celebrate the roots of this historic community.

Back in December, the Gay Lesbian Community Center of Baltimore (GLCCB) put out a request for locals to send in their ideas for the theme of this year’s Baltimore Pride celebration. Of all the submissions, the one that stood out most to committee members was “United We Shine.”

“It’s representative of everything we stand for,” says LaKesha Davis, Pride coordinator with the GLCCB. “Even though there is still room to grow within the community, as long as we remain united, we will continue to shine.”

The inclusive theme will permeate to every aspect of the celebration—happening June 16-17—which officially moved its annual Saturday-afternoon block party from Mt. Vernon to the Station North Arts District last year.

The parade route has shifted slightly this year. Instead of beginning in Mt. Vernon, it will step off from East 33rd Street in Charles Village at 1 p.m. and head south on Charles Street—descending into the block party on East 23rd Street in Station North. The decision to switch up the route was sparked by concerns of traffic congestion from last year’s parade, which ended on North Avenue.

Davis says that the new route is not only practical, but also symbolic. Revelers will march through Charles Village, where the GLCCB originated in 1977, and descend into Pride’s new home.

“We try to find a way to make things better every year,” Davis explains.

Parade day celebrations will include the annual high-heel races and a new pet parade, as well as live entertainment by Chance The Rapper’s kid brother Taylor Bennett, hip-hop goddess Miami Tip, our own club queen TT The Artist, and The Voice runner-up Davon Fleming.

As in previous years, the fun continues on Sunday at Druid Hill Park with a festival showcasing local vendors, live DJ entertainment, eats and drinks, and a performance by headliner Tish Hyman. The Druid Hill festival is also home to the GLCCB’s Elder Pride and Family Pride programs, which will offer kid-friendly activities led by The Walters Art Museum and the Maryland Zoo this year.

After months of hard work organizing the event, which attracted nearly 30,000 people last summer, Davis says she’s eager to see the community come together.

“I would love to see the whole community stand together and be represented as a whole,” she says, “because that’s how we get things done. We have to remain united in order to make things happen.”

In keeping with this year’s theme, establishments all over town are hosting a number of rainbow-inspired events to celebrate Pride month. Here are a few to mark on your calendar:

6/13: Wine’d Up Wednesday
Kick off Pride Week at this annual fundraiser for the GLCCB, which serves more than 800 individuals per month with its various programs. Gather with other supporters to sip wines, snack on hors d’oeuvres, and bid on silent auction items at Flavor in Mt. Vernon. 15 E. Centre St. 6-10 p.m. $40. 443-569-2279

6/13: Laugh Out Loud

If you’re in need of some mid-week laughs, head to The Motor House for this upbeat comedy show featuring sets by local entertainers Michael Furr, Ruby Darling, Violet Gray, and Jezabelle Von Jane. The evening will be hosted by Baltimore “boylesque” icon Tommy Gunn. The Motor House, 120 W. North Ave. 7-9 p.m. $20. 410-637-8300

6/15: Twilight on the Terrace
For more than a decade, this candlelit fundraiser at Gertrude’s inside the Baltimore Museum of Art has provided an ideal jump-start to Pride weekend with eats, drinks, and dancing under the stars. Enjoy signature gin cocktails and bites by Gertrude’s while rubbing elbows with special guests like The Voice’s Fleming and Mayor Catherine Pugh. 10 Art Museum Drive. 7-11 p.m. $125. 410-889-3399

6/16: Parade Day Party at The Baltimore Eagle
Located in the epicenter of Saturday’s festivities, The Baltimore Eagle in Station North will be a headquarters for revelers on parade day. The bar is throwing a rainbow rager featuring food and drink deals, and live DJs spinning in multiple rooms all day and night. Experience the epic dance parties in style with The Eagle’s VIP package that gets you no-cover access and a free tank top. The Baltimore Eagle, 2022 N. Charles St. 11 a.m.- 2 a.m. Covers range from $5-15 throughout the day. 410-200-9858

6/23: Pride Double Feature at the Parkway
The SNF Parkway Theatre’s new family-friendly film series, Generation Parkway, continues with a special Pride installment later this month. The Pride outreach event starts with a showing of Beauty and the Beast at 1:30 p.m., and continues with Howard—a documentary about Baltimore-born theater musician Howard Ashman, who wrote some of Disney’s most iconic scores. 5 W. North Ave., 1:30 p.m. $8-14. 410-752-8083

6/23: Pride Art Exhibit and Drink Deals at Hotel Revival
In the heart of Mt. Vernon, celebrate Pride by taking in a live exhibit by local artist Jasjyot Singh Hans. Hans will be auctioning off three pieces, with 50 percent of the proceeds being donated to Hearts and Ears—a local organization that supports individuals in the LGBTQ community with behavioral health issues and concerns. Be sure to head upstairs to Topside to sip special Pride cocktails, including the $11 “So Fresh, So Green,” made with Absolut Pride, mint-tea syrup, lime shrub, soda, and a mint garnish. The bar will also feature DC Brau’s Pride Pils, and Bells Brewery’s Sparkleberry ale for $5. Hotel Revival, 101 W. Monument St., 5-7 p.m. 410-727-7101.

6/27: LGBT Pride Night at Camden Yards
There will be some rainbow flair mixed in to the usual sea of orange at Camden Yards on Wednesday, June 27. The Orioles are offering a Pride-inspired ticket package for the evening’s game against the Seattle Mariners, including a special O’s Pride cap with rainbow embroidery. A portion of the ticket sales will be donated to Moveable Feast, a local charity that provides meals to locals living with HIV/AIDS and other life-threatening illnesses. 333 W. Camden St., 7:05 p.m. $70.

6/29: Baltimore Bike Party Pride Ride
This monthly bike trek is celebrating accordingly with a rainbow ride throughout the city. Pump up your tires and throw on some colorful garb to pedal around before descending into Highlandtown for an official after party at Old Line Spirits—complete with cocktails and beers from neighboring Monument City Brewing Company. Route details TBD. 6:30-11:30 p.m. Free.