UMB’s latest outdoor gallery, located near green space, is a vibrant spot to explore and enjoy contemporary art.
A beaded mermaid, a series of images from the Super Blood Wolf total lunar eclipse, a kaleidoscope of color presented in a glass sculpture, and a ginormous cicada are just some of the captivating works included in Pearl Gallery North, the latest contemporary art space on the north end of the University of Maryland, Baltimore’s (UMB) campus. This vibrant platform showcases the diverse creative talents of UMB faculty, staff, students, University of Maryland Medical Center employees, alumni, and the broader community. The exterior artscape features a selection of images fabricated from vinyl, highlighting two dozen pieces from Issue 4 of 1807, UMB's art and literary journal, published in fall 2022.
As described by UMB President Bruce E. Jarrell, MD, FACS, Issue 4 “features a set of striking images and profound words. The art in this issue continues to be broad in type and variety, color and texture, mood and feel. It even includes depictions of UMB’s iconic buildings, alongside a stunning collection of other artistic and literary works.” The new exterior gallery reflects this same diversity and richness, with a range of art spanning visual arts, photography, glass sculpture, three-dimensional art, and digital media.
True to its minimalist, modern design, Pearl Gallery North (the fourth exterior gallery created from past issues of 1807) offers an intimate outdoor space for viewers to experience thought-provoking works that explore identity, culture, and social issues, as well as celebrate landscapes, animal life, nature, global communities, and the creative process.
Jennifer B. Litchman, MA, senior vice president for external relations and founder of the UMB Council for the Arts & Culture, was a key figure in the project. She reflects, “Art, in its many forms, allows us to explore complex ideas, emotions, and experiences in ways that speak across disciplines. Collectively, the galleries surrounding Pearl Garage provide an opportunity for those at the University and in our West Baltimore neighborhood to discover the talented artists within the greater UMB community, to find meaning in a world that oftentimes feels too busy and disjointed, and to disconnect and find a space to quietly breathe and reflect.”
Dana Rampolla, director of integrated marketing for UMB’s Office of Communications and Public Affairs, managed the creation of this gallery and the three previous exterior galleries. She also serves as the creative director and managing editor of 1807. Rampolla shares, “The artistic images in 1807 and those chosen for the galleries invite reflection and inspire viewers of all ages. The north end of UMB’s campus has become a growing center for creativity, fostering an ongoing dialogue among art, academia, and the surrounding city.” She also noted that UMB has enjoyed the opportunity to work with Sykesville-based APCorp to create these spaces. From design to installation, their partnership has been seamless.
To make the most of the experience, plan your visit on one of Maryland’s remaining warm autumn days. Bring a packed lunch or grab carryout from Lexington Market, and, if the weather cooperates, enjoy dining at one of the picnic tables in the green space near Pearl Gallery North. Alternatively, if you’re bundled up and walking from North Campus, take a moment to admire the new gallery as you stroll by.
Note: Pearl Gallery North, along with Pearl Gallery and Arch Gallery, are located around the Pearl Garage, situated along Pearl Street between West Lexington and West Fayette streets. Lexington Market is just a short walk away at 112 N. Eutaw St.