The First and Franklin Presbyterian Church is excited to announce an expansion of its annual “Prelude to Pride” concert. This year, the event will not only showcase music but will also feature art and community engagement through a carefully curated art auction and fundraiser aimed at supporting AIDS Action Baltimore.
The “Prelude to Pride” concert is scheduled for Sunday, June 7, 2026, at 3 p.m., marking the launch of Baltimore’s Pride month. It will be part of the church’s signature events, The Spire Series and Art Under the Spire, which highlight both concert performances and art exhibitions. There will be no ticket fees; instead, donations are warmly welcomed. All funds raised from the concert and auction will aid AIDS Action Baltimore in providing crucial HIV prevention education, testing, and community-based services throughout the city.
Doors to the chapel will open at 2 p.m., giving attendees the opportunity to preview the art pieces and place early bids. The concert will commence at 3 p.m., followed by the Live Art Auction and Reception from 4:30 to 5:30 p.m., with bidding officially concluding at 5:15 p.m.
Over 20 talented artists will contribute their artwork to the auction, showcasing a diverse array of styles and perspectives. Among the featured artists are the award-winning painter Joan Cox and renowned photojournalist Joe Giordano. Cox previously exhibited her work at First and Franklin in June 2025 and most recently showcased at the Immortal Queer Art Fair in Mexico City. Giordano, a co-host of the podcast “10 Frames Per Second” with Molly Roberts, is also a finalist for the National Gallery’s Outwin Boochever Portrait Prize. His work from the “Struggle Civil Rights” series can be found in the permanent collections at the Reginald F. Lewis Museum. The artistic contributions from Cox, Giordano, and other participants reflect the rich diversity and vibrancy of Baltimore’s creative community.
For art enthusiasts who are eager to make a difference, online bidding will open on Sunday, May 31, and will close on Sunday, June 7, at noon. The last online bid will set the stage as the opening bid for the live auction.
To discover more about the “Prelude to Pride” concert and art auction, including details on online bidding and ways to support the cause, please visit the First and Franklin Presbyterian Church website.
