For DonorsFor Applicants

Elena Johnston Memorial Scholarship

$5,000
1 winner$5,000
Awarded
Application Deadline
Sep 2, 2024
Winners Announced
Oct 7, 2024
Education Level
High School, Undergraduate
Eligibility Requirements
Education Level:
High school senior or undergraduate student
State:
Maryland
Field of Study:
Arts, creative arts, performing arts, arts education

Elena Johnston was a gifted woman who was an active and beloved member of the Baltimore arts community. She was a prolific artist who poured her creativity into her life as well as her practice. 

This scholarship is a tribute to Elena’s artistic body of work, her laugh-filled spirit, and her thoughtful, generous nature as both a teacher and friend.

This Elena Johnston Memorial Scholarship will support the academic pursuits of a student in Maryland who shares Elena’s passion for the arts.

Any high school senior or undergraduate student in Maryland who is pursuing a degree in arts, performing arts, arts education or the creative arts at an accredited 2 or 4-year program may apply for this scholarship opportunity. Students from Baltimore City and who graduated from Baltimore City Public Schools are strongly encouraged to apply.

To apply, describe an artistic experience, interaction, or exposure you have had in Maryland that has informed, inspired, or influenced your artistic journey, perspective, practice, or craft.

Selection Criteria:
Ambition, Drive, Passion
Published April 26, 2024
Essay Topic

In 250 words or less, please describe an artistic experience, interaction, or exposure you have had in Maryland that has informed, inspired, or influenced your artistic journey, perspective, practice, or craft.

100–250 words

Winning Application

Deja Pemberton
Maryland Institute College of ArtBowie, MD
In 2021, I got the opportunity to exhibit my work for a Juneteenth event at BlackRock Center for the Arts. The experience of being in that exhibition gave me a greater perspective on the impact art can have. I made a piece reflecting on black women's hair and the societal issues that come with embracing it. Growing up and constantly hearing news stories about black girls having to conform to societal beauty standards is traumatizing. Being told that your hair isn't "up to code" and "appropriate" can destroy a person's relationship with themselves and others like them. Unfortunately, this shared experience breeds more discrimination inside of the black community, tearing us apart. I wanted my piece to reflect on that while also giving some power back to us. To be able to present that piece in a room filled with other black women gave me a feeling beyond belief. I understand the importance of seeing characters like me in media. Yet, seeing in real-time the significance representation can have was overwhelming. I not only felt heard but so did the people around me, which made me understand the power art has. I talked to some women afterward, and they exclaimed about how moved they were by my piece. I hope that with future art pieces I make, I can give viewers a way to see themselves.

FAQ

When is the scholarship application deadline?

The application deadline is Sep 2, 2024. Winners will be announced on Oct 7, 2024.