Linzy Jackson III

Director of Baltimore’s new Office of Arts, Culture, and Entertainment, Linzy Jackson III joins Rob Lee for his first appearance to discuss his journey from summer youth worker to one of the city’s key connectors between creatives and local government.In this episode, Linzy talks about what it means to streamline access to public resources, the cultural imprint of growing up in Baltimore, and his work tearing down red tape for artists and event organizers. He shares how early memories of AFRAM and MLK Day parades shaped his understanding of community engagement—and why cities like Philly and Austin are paying close attention to how Baltimore moves.We explore the long-term vision for Baltimore’s creative infrastructure and why Linzy believes artists shouldn’t need insider access to make things happen.Topics Covered:What equitable access to city support for artists really looks likeThe cultural impact of free festivals like Artscape and AFRAMCreating a more artist-friendly Baltimore through policy and planningLessons from sister cities and the value of inter-city collaborationWhy the city needs a “State of the Creative Community”🎧 Explore more conversations with Baltimore changemakers in our archive.📍 More on MOACE: baltimorecity.gov