Eyewinkers, Tumbleturds, and Candlebugs: The Art of Elizabeth Talford Scott

November 12, 2023 – April 28, 2024

This exhibition revisits and amplifies the landmark 1998 exhibition organized by George Ciscle at the Maryland Institute College of Art (MICA), working as a guest curator with students from MICA’s inaugural Exhibition Development Seminar (EDS). Elizabeth Talford Scott drew upon found materials and the creative practice of her family lineage in her artmaking, creating stunning fiber works that did not yet garner the recognition that they deserved in the larger artworld. This collaborative exhibition underscored the status of Talford Scott’s work as fine art and modeled innovative community-centered approaches to curation and interpretation.

Twenty-five years later, the BMA is partnering with MICA and the Estate of Elizabeth Talford Scott at Goya

Contemporary to build upon that legacy, engaging a new group of students and bringing together four museums and four schools to celebrate Talford Scott’s work.

In November 2023, the BMA will showcase more than 20 of Talford Scott’s innovative works, leading up to the community initiative across Baltimore City from February through May 2024. Each of the exhibition locations— the BMA, Cryor Art Gallery at Coppin State University, Johns Hopkins University, Maryland Center for History and Culture, MICA, James E. Lewis Museum of Art (JELMA) at Morgan State University, The Peale, Reginald F. Lewis Museum, and the Walters Art Museum—has a significant history with EDS and/or the artist. Students from each school will be working on the project.