Immersive fundraiser will spotlight Black artists through art, networking, and a guided sip & paint experience 

Baltimore, MD — May 18, 2026 — The Greater Baltimore Leadership Association (GBLA), the young professionals auxiliary of the Greater Baltimore Urban League, will host Canvas & Culture: A Juneteenth Experience on Thursday, June 18, 2026, from 6:00 PM to 10:00 PM at Creatively Black. The event will bring together young professionals, creatives, artists, and community leaders for an evening dedicated to celebrating Black creativity, culture, and community empowerment through art, conversation, and connection. 

The immersive experience will feature a curated art showcase, artist talks, presentations focused on youth arts and creativity, networking opportunities, and a guided Sip & Paint session led by a featured artist. Guests will also enjoy food offerings and a cash bar. Proceeds from the fundraiser will support GBUL’s programming focused on leadership development, economic empowerment, and community impact initiatives across the Baltimore region. 

Black artists continue to play a vital role in shaping Baltimore’s cultural and economic landscape through visual art, music, storytelling, fashion, and performance, while preserving history, strengthening identity, and driving community engagement. Canvas & Culture was created to help provide visibility, access, and support for Black creatives while reinforcing the importance of arts education and creative expression for Baltimore’s youth and future generations. 

“Black creativity has always shaped culture, driven innovation, and strengthened communities, yet many artists still lack equitable access to platforms and opportunities,” said Coby Smith, President of GBLA and Board Member of the Greater Baltimore Urban League. “Canvas & Culture is about creating intentional space to celebrate Black artists, invest in community, and bring people together through culture, creativity, and meaningful connection.” 

“We wanted the event to be community-centered, highlighting local creatives and giving them a platform to speak on self-expression and empowerment,” said Elena Huang, Event Lead for Canvas & Culture and GBLA Membership Co-Chair. “Our intention was to create an environment where participants could not only experience Baltimore’s vibrant art scene, but also create their own work and begin to see themselves reflected within that creative landscape.” 

“Canvas & Culture represents the type of elevated, culturally impactful experiences we want to continue bringing to Baltimore,” said Nicole Campbell. “This is more than a social event—it’s a celebration of Black artistry, collaboration, and community in a way that feels authentic, inspiring, and memorable.” 

“At the Greater Baltimore Urban League, we believe culture, creativity, and community are deeply connected,” said Shea Rice, interim President & CEO of the Greater Baltimore Urban League. “Through our partnership with Creatively Black, Canvas & Culture helps bring greater visibility to homegrown Black artists and the incredible work being created and sold right here in Baltimore. This event is about celebrating Black creativity while creating meaningful community connection and support for local talent.” 

The event is helping GBUL continue to create accessible, mission-driven programming that supports Baltimore’s creative and professional communities. 

Limited tickets remain available. For event information, sponsorship opportunities, and ticket access, visit https://www.eventbrite.com/e/canvas-culture-tickets-1989191779159?aff=affiliate1 

About The Greater Baltimore Leadership Association 

The Greater Baltimore Leadership Association (GBLA) is the young professionals auxiliary of the Greater Baltimore Urban League, engaging professionals ages 21–40 in leadership development, community service, and economic empowerment. Over the past decade, GBLA has hosted dozens of programs annually, raised tens of thousands of dollars for community initiatives, supported Black entrepreneurs, and earned national recognition for leadership and community impact.