Neighbor News
Baltimore Museum of Industry Farmers Market Returns for 2025 Season
Museum Unveils New Artwork in Collaboration with MICA Student
The Baltimore Museum of Industry (BMI) is excited to announce its partnership with senior illustration students from the Maryland Institute College of Art (MICA) to develop a vibrant new identity for the upcoming 2025 Farmers Market season. This collaboration unites the talent of emerging artists and the community-focused mission of the BMI to enhance the market experience for visitors and vendors alike.
The BMI Farmers Market is held every Saturday from May 17 to November 22, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., transforming the museum's picturesque waterfront property into a vibrant hub for the Baltimore community. Visitors can enjoy a diverse selection of fresh, locally sourced produce, artisanal treats, and handcrafted goods with added activations like live music performances from local artists, theme days, and special partnerships.
Under the guidance of Danielle Nekimken, a local artist, designer, and MICA professor, students participating in her Professional Development class engaged in an in-depth research initiative. They explored the BMI’s mission and location, the critical role that Farmers' Markets play in fostering community engagement, and their significance in supporting local farmers and the agricultural industry. Leveraging this valuable insight, students were tasked with creating imaginative, engaging, and community-oriented artwork.
“This initiative represents an incredible opportunity for students to apply their skills in a real-world setting while contributing to a vital community resource,” said Nekimken. “We believe that their designs will not only beautify the Farmers Market but also resonate deeply with the local community, encouraging greater participation and support.”
The MICA Professional Development course is designed to guide students as they transition from the university environment to the professional world of art. Throughout the semester, students have delved into various essential business practices that will empower their careers, including establishing contracts, understanding copyright issues, determining pricing, adhering to ethical guidelines, handling taxes, marketing themselves effectively, networking, managing their time, and exploring business structures such as Limited Liability Companies (LLCs) and Sole Proprietorships.
Blue Popson is a Baltimore-based illustrator currently attending MICA. Born and raised in Maryland, Blue has filled many sketchbooks with the buildings and scenery of Baltimore. In their illustration practice, Blue is particularly interested in the stories images can tell. They like to use bright, bold colors and shapes to invite viewers into a scene and encourage them to learn more.
"I am incredibly excited to have the opportunity to work with the BMI. The museum’s exhibits and its location along the Harbor waterfront inspired me greatly as I undertook this project. I hope that my work can encourage more people to check out the museum and become involved with their local community through the farmer’s market."
The collaboration between the Baltimore Museum of Industry and MICA students highlights the importance of community and innovation in the arts. We invite the public to experience the fruits of this partnership at the BMI Farmers Market, which will unfold with renewed energy and fresh designs in May of 2025.
For more information about the Farmers Market or to learn more about this exciting partnership, please contact Chelsea Redding credding@thebmi.org.
The BMI Farmers Market is currently looking for and accepting sponsors. To learn more, contact Jo Pressimone jpressimone@thebmi.org.
