SCOUT ART FAIR (Artist Application)

Scout Art Fair, making contemporary art accessible.  

Scout is an inaugural art fair designed to elevate the Artscape experience by bringing together over 50 established and emerging artist from Baltimore and the DMV region and beyond. With artwork priced between $150 and $5000 the fair creates opportunities for collectors and newcomers alike to invest in exceptional art. 

Scout will take place at the War Memorial Building in Baltimore, Maryland, May 22-26, 2025, in partnership with the Artscape festival. For the first time in Artscape’s 40-year history, an art fair will be integrated into the festival, marking a new milestone in its evolution. This exciting event will showcase a diverse selection of contemporary art, featuring both emerging and established artists from Baltimore and the surrounding region, with a focus on accessibility and engagement for collectors and art enthusiasts alike.

To kick off the fair, we will host an exclusive preview night on Thursday, May 22, by invitation only, offering art collectors and media an early opportunity to explore and acquire works before the public opening.

The inaugural event was conceptualized by renowned artist, and Baltimore Native Derrick Adams. Adams will lead as co-curator, with assistant curation by Teri Henderson. Scout Art Fair aims to create an inclusive and engaging platform for artists to connect with a wider audience of collectors, enthusiasts, and the general public. We believe in fostering art appreciation and collecting among a diverse community, and we are particularly excited to highlight the vibrant artistic talent within Baltimore and Maryland. 

Scout is founded on the belief that art should be accessible to all—creating opportunities for collectors at every level while supporting artists in sharing their work with a wider audience. By prioritizing affordability, we aim to foster a culture of art appreciation and ownership, ensuring that creativity remains an integral part of everyday life.

This art fair is designed to foster success and build a strong reputation for both the fair and the festival. While most art fairs operate on a tiered pricing model—where galleries, dealers, and exhibitors pay substantial fees for booth spaces—we are taking a different approach. To support our artists and create an accessible platform, we are waiving standard artist exhibition fees and instead applying a 35% commission on all art sales. Proceeds will directly support the 501(c)(3) Baltimore Office of Promotion & The Arts to help support operation cost. BOPA will facilitate sales and taxes and the artists are responsible for delivery to the collectors. 

How to apply: 

We are seeking submissions from artists working in a variety of disciplines, including painting, sculpture, photography, digital art, installation, performance, mixed media, and more. If you are a passionate artist who creates high-quality, affordable work, we encourage you to apply.

To be eligible, artists must meet the following criteria:

• Disciplines: Open to a wide range of artistic practices, including painting, sculpture, photography, digital art, installation, performance, mixed media, and more.

• Experience: We welcome both emerging and established artists. Applicants should submit a robust portfolio that demonstrates technical skill and creative vision.

• Geographic Focus: Priority consideration will be given to artists based in Baltimore and throughout Maryland. (other regions will be considered) 

• Age & Availability: Applicants must be at least 18 years old and available for installation, participation, and community engagement activities during the festival dates (May 22–25, 2025). Applicants must provide proof of ID in order to participate.

• Pricing: In alignment with Scout’s mission to be an affordable arts fair, artist work must be priced between $150 and $5,000. Submissions can include both original works and limited editions.

• Booth Size: Each artist will be provided with a 8’ x 8’ x 8’ booth space to showcase their work.

 Submit the following materials:

• Portfolio: A digital portfolio (images, videos, or other media) of 10-20 works that best represents your artistic work.

• Artist Statement: A 150-word statement outlining your creative practice and influences.

• Resume/CV: A brief biography highlighting relevant exhibitions, awards, or artistic achievements.

• Project Proposal: If applicable, a proposal detailing the concept, dimensions, and installation needs for your work at the fair (300-word limit).

The application deadline is [March 21, 2025].