Protecting Art Spaces: A Conversation with Amy Cavanaugh of Maryland Art Place
In this episode of the Create! Podcast, I am thrilled to sit down with Amy Cavanaugh, the Executive Director of Maryland Art Place. Amy shares her incredible transition from a touring professional cellist to a leading voice in arts administration. Her story is a perfect reminder of the resilience and adaptability required to sustain a thriving contemporary arts community.
From the Cello to the Gallery
Amy's background is deeply rooted in performance. After spending decades playing the cello and recording along the Eastern seaboard, she realized the need for a more sustainable path. This led her to Washington, D.C., where she co-founded a gallery and eventually found her way to MAP, where she has been a driving force for the last 14 years.
The Power of Creative Empathy
What makes Amy's leadership so effective is her background as an artist. She intimately understands the grueling labor behind the creative process. This empathy allows her to advocate for visual artists with genuine passion. Whether she is navigating the distinct funding landscapes of D.C. and Baltimore or reminding artists that a "no" from a donor often just means "not right now," her insights are invaluable. She reminds us that while administrative work might look different from studio practice, leadership is its own form of creativity.
Advocating for Physical Art Spaces
One of the standout moments in our conversation is Amy's dedication to protecting MAP's 20,000 square foot building in downtown Baltimore. She fiercely believes that working artists need to remain visible and active within the general commerce of a city. Art belongs downtown, and organizations like MAP ensure it stays there.
Community Impact and Opportunities
MAP is a true clearinghouse for artists. They offer accessible networking events like the Out of Order auction, manage the Maryland State Arts Directory, and coordinate impactful public art projects that place works in boutique hotels and developments across the city. Amy is also gearing up for the Bromo Art Walk on May 14th, which will feature an exciting New York and Baltimore exchange show.
