OWINGS MILLS, Md. — A profile of Baltimore-based multi-media artist Joyce J. Scott, who was honored last week with a national MacArthur Genius Award, airs during the Thursday, September 29 episode of Maryland Public Television’s Artworks series. The episode airs on MPT-HD at 8:30 p.m. The segment featuring Scott is also available for viewing online at mpt.org/joycescott.
Scott is one of this year’s 23 MacArthur Fellows, recipients of what are frequently called “genius grants.” The awards were announced September 21 by the Chicago-based John D. and Catherine T. MacArthur Foundation.
The MacArthur Fellowship is for individuals who show exceptional creativity in their work and the prospect for still more in the future. It is designed to provide recipients with the flexibility to pursue their own artistic, intellectual, and professional activities in the absence of specific obligations or reporting requirements. The foundation gives each honoree $625,000 over five years to spend any way he or she pleases. More than 900 people have received the grants since 1981.
Scott works in a variety of media including fiber, bead, glasswork, sculpture and performance. Her work is infused with sharp wit and social commentary.
In April, Scott was highlighted during MPT’s 2016 Baker Artist Awards Special as the winner of the $50,000 Mary Sawyers Imboden Prize – the top Baker Award. The Baker Artist Awards celebrate both individuals with outstanding talent as well as the Baltimore region’s creative vitality.