When Roots Run Deep

Written By AE

When Roots Run Deep was a QTBIPOC Local Artist Exhibition and Open Mic held in August, centered on the theme of rebirth. Honoring the ancestral practice of storytelling as a means of truth and preservation, the exhibition created an intentional platform for diverse forms of expression—visual, literary, performing, and multimedia.

The exhibition featured 13 local artists over the course of 18 days and welcomed the community into the Lower Level of Baltimore Unity Hall, transforming the venue into an inclusive, immersive sanctuary for art, healing, and connection.

Community Reach & Participation

  • Total attendance: 100 community members across 3 events

  • Age range of attendees: 23–68 years old

  • Artists featured: 13 QTBIPOC artists across multiple disciplines

  • Duration: 18 days of programming

Community Feedback (Opening Reception Data)

Participants rated their experience across several categories (scale of 1–5, with 5 being most meaningful):

  • Overall experience: 5/5

  • Art curation and presentation: 5/5

  • Open Mic: 4/5

  • Venue space and accessibility: 5/5

  • Welcoming and inclusive vibe: 5/5

  • Emotional or spiritual resonance: 5/5

Community Impact Highlights

Attendees shared that the most impactful aspects of the exhibition included:

  • Celebration of community and collective presence

  • Diversity of artists and perspectives

  • Direct connection with artists and performers

  • Poetry, stage presence, and powerful performances

  • Soundscape and aromatherapy are enhancing the environment

  • Event organization and welcoming atmosphere

  • Food and hospitality provided

  • Accessibility, spaciousness, and cleanliness of the venue

  • Immersive environment fostering vulnerability and alignment

  • Multiplicity of perspectives woven together

Key Outcomes for Sponsors & Partners

  • Amplified Local Talent: 13 QTBIPOC artists received visibility, platforming their work to a wide audience.

  • Strengthened Community Ties: 100 attendees engaged in meaningful dialogue, connection, and cultural celebration.

  • Inclusive & Accessible Space: Positive ratings confirmed that the venue and event design ensured accessibility, inclusivity, and a welcoming environment.

  • Deep Resonance: Emotional and spiritual impact scored at the highest level, affirming the exhibition’s role in advancing holistic community well-being.

  • Extended Visibility: The exhibition spanned 18 days, providing sponsors with sustained exposure to diverse audiences.

Conclusion & Acknowledgments

When Roots Run Deep was more than an art exhibition—it was a community sanctuary and cultural milestone. With the support of our sponsors and allies, we created a space where QTBIPOC voices were uplifted, audiences were deeply impacted, and the theme of rebirth was embodied through collective storytelling.

This exhibition was made possible through the generous support of:

  • Maryland State Arts Council (MSAC)

  • Black Arts District (BAD)

  • Baltimore Unity Hall

We are profoundly grateful for MSAC and BAD’s financial investment, which allowed us to support artists and sustain high-quality programming. We also thank Baltimore Unity Hall for hosting us and providing a welcoming, accessible home for the exhibition. Their collective contributions ensured that When Roots Run Deep could flourish as both an exhibition and a sanctuary for community, creativity, and rebirth.

AE
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To Baltimore, With Love