Artists Come Together To Honor History Of Baltimore's Only Pool For African Americans

BALTIMORE (WJZ) -- An art installation covering an area once segregated in Baltimore brought together local artists to decorate what was once Baltimore's only African American city pool in Druid Hill Park.

The goal of the exhibit is to highlight a painful piece of history and create a dialogue that engages all generations.

During segregation, the swimming area was known as "Pool Number 2."

It was the only public pool for African Americans in Baltimore.

After closing in the 1950s, it sat empty until 1999, when Baltimore artist Joyce Scott transformed the area into a memorial pool. The abandoned space was filled with dirt and covered with grass.

"It's all of our history, and we have to begin at some point to come together and talk about it and start living for the future," said curator Sheena Morrison.

Morrison worked with local artists to invoke a dialogue at the park by creating everyday utopias.

"Increase an awareness of the history and to garner the support for more stewardship over it, and to reactivate the site," said Morrison.

The artists invited people to unite in the space to reflect on a painful time in our country, and encourage people to engage in civic responsibility.

"We want people to come here and think about the place and the people who came here for which it was their utopia, and consider where we are today and the struggle continues," said artist Andrew Keiper.

While the exhibit is coming to a close, the artists hope their message remains.

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