The Valerie J. Maynard Foundation

Baltimore, MD

The Valerie J. Maynard Foundation (VJMF) is dedicated to preserving and advancing the artistic legacy, cultural vision, and values of the late artist and activist Valerie J. Maynard (1937–2022). The Foundation will support visual arts education, creative exploration, and advocacy, particularly for Black, queer, and underrepresented artists, while honoring Maynard's commitment to equity, sustainability, and cultural preservation. VJMF's historic headquarters is a 3,705-square-foot art gallery, studio, learning space, community resource, and former home of beloved artist Valerie Maynard.

To further this mission, the Foundation launched the Thriving Futures Initiative—a climate-focused project centered on the installation of a comprehensive, energy-efficient climate control system in the foundation's headquarters. A 2025 FCI Implementation Grant supported the integration of solar energy, a high-efficiency HVAC system, and an extensive weatherization upgrade. In addition, the project ensures the long-term preservation of Maynard's artistic legacy and provides an inspiring climate-conscious environment for nurturing future generations of artists.

A 2026 FCI Scoping Grant will support a feasibility study for a planned addition expanding gallery and archival storage. The study will evaluate solar array extension, HVAC options, energy-efficient windows and lighting, and net-zero archival storage design, establishing a technical and financial roadmap for construction of an addition that honors Maynard's legacy while meeting the highest standards of environmental responsibility.