Chime Art Gallery is an inclusive and welcoming artistic space for all. We pride ourselves on maintaining a respectful, empathetic, and thought-provoking atmosphere. We believe that society can benefit from the creative expressions of everyone, especially those who have been historically neglected.
After our historic opening in 2017, Chime has established itself on a global stage as a change for good in our local community. We will always remain committed to help marginalized communities heal through artistic practices. At our core, we believe in the importance of expanding the lens through which art is viewed. By altering the artistic cannon, we hope to create a world that is more just and equitable.
Troy Barnes’ critically-acclaimed exhibition, A Retrospective Memoir, was installed at Chime from January 15, 2021 through August 1, 2021. As a recent MICA grad and Druid Hill native, Barnes was interested in exploring his Baltimore Heritage and as well as their place in the ever-changing world. Strips of 35-mm film with hand-drawn, expressionistic white lines cascaded down the walls of the Eastern Hall. ...
An advocate of the importance of mental health services, Baltimore Sun reporter Pierce Edison hailed that “Barnes’ self-portraiture serves as an stark reminder of the pain of isolation and loneliness. The importance of their work cannot be understated.
Barnes began their residency starting January 1, 2021 until the end of the month. During this time, they held multiple workshops teaching how to use a 35-mm camera and the techniques they use to add illustrated elements to their work.
Artists like Troy Barnes are the reason why Chime exists. With generous support from our donors, Chime was able to support Barnes in pursuing their artistic practice, allowing them to share their unique perspectives with our patrons and the world. Opportunities for striving artists in Charm City are limited, and we are grateful that we are able to empower the citizens we serve.
Simone Spencer made her debut at Chime with Romanticizing the In-Between, a mixed-media exhibition aimed at depicting Baltimore in a positive light. Spencer’s exhibition featured alternative photography of Baltimore natives as well as ripped out pages from her sketchbook with illustrations and notes about the people she encountered. Her work was on view between July 15, 2019, through January 15, 2020, and numerous pieces have since become part of Chime’s permanent collection and are on view in the Chesapeake Study Commons. ...
Spencer’s work eloquently displayed the power that art has to change perceptions. Brought to light during a time when Baltimore had been painted negatively in the national political sphere, it served as a stark reminder of the resiliency and spirit of Charm City citizens. Baltimore Magazine reporter Annie Everdeen praised Spencer’s “ability to intimately convey the private lives of individuals while simultaneously advocating how Baltimore is an incredible special place to live.”
Spencer held an artist lecture during her residency at Chime, at which she empowered artists to use whatever tools available to them to tell the story they wished to share with the world. Her residency was one of the most popular ever held at Chime, and has since helped to propel her to national acclaim.