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The working class heart of Baltimore, Highlandtown has a strong and idiosyncratic personality. Blocks of row houses with marble steps, formstone, painted screens and seasonally decorated windows have long been symbols of the neighborhood’s quintessentially Baltimore culture. Today, new populations of African-Americans, Latinos, Africans, and Asians have moved into the traditional ethnic enclaves once populated primarily by Polish, German, Italian and Greek families. 

 

These diverse ethnic populations have long been attractive to artists and others seeking a stimulating and interesting urban environment. The authentic character of the place—frank, unpretentious, pragmatic and cheap—and its proximity to large old industrial buildings, suits the tastes and needs of artists. Eastern Avenue’s dollar stores, jobbers, and thrift stores provide fertile ground for cultural producers. Unused storefronts and empty second floor spaces on Eastern Avenue are spaces for galleries, live/work spaces, and studio spaces. 

 

The Creative Alliance at the Patterson joined with the Southeast Community Development Corporation to win the state designation known as the Highlandtown Arts and Entertainment District. Since, the Highlandtown Arts group, known as ha!, has formed as a coalition of local artists, businesses and non-profits that meets monthly to coordinate activities, plan events, and market the arts in the community to the larger metropolitan area.

 

To learn more about ha!, visit its website here.