In Artscape news, for the first time the Greater Baltimore Cultural Alliance (GBCA) will be participating with a tent to promote its more than 150 organizational members. Thanks in part to support from the Baltimore Office of Promotion and the Arts, GBCA will create a venue with information and performances that highlight the rich and diverse arts and cultural offerings of the Baltimore region. If you are a member, watch for an e-mail inviting you to participate. Not a member? It’s not too late to join.

In order to capitalize on the area’s thriving arts and culture scene, residents, tourists and students all need a way to navigate the many events and attractions available on a daily basis. Likewise, a thriving arts and culture community lives on its audiences and requires tools that will drive patrons to their venues. In short, Baltimore needs this highly visible and comprehensive online arts and culture calendar.

Since 2004, GBCA has managed the online cultural calendar,BaltimoreFunGuide.com and has built both an audience and track record of success. However, the site has not been significantly upgraded since 2008, leaving a lag in technology, usability, and responsiveness to the evolving cultural climate. All of that is about to change. For the past year, GBCA has been working on the redevelopment of the calendar and its website. When the new sites are rolled out in late June, they will more broadly represent the cultural community, strengthening the marketplace for artists and arts organizations alike.

Watch for more to come on both these exciting fronts,

Jeannie

P.S. Remember, Thursday night is ArtWalk at MICA.