The Baltimore Sun piece showcasing the issues with the art collector community in Baltimore compared to the growing art collectors in New York and South Florida. The piece talks about the importance of public art displays and how it can convey a sense of identity. In Baltimore City when you go to an Orioles game you see the world famous Babe Ruth statue and there is a wrinkle with the sculpture though. Ruth who was born in Baltimore has his glove on his right hand but he was a lefty. Little art nuisances like this make for a memorable piece that stays in our heads.
I learned about this during an elementary school field trip and still talk about it today. One quote from the Baltimore Sun piece:
"In Baltimore, public art can convey a sense of identity, commemorating historical events or celebrating the diversity of its people. By witnessing such art, individuals should be inspired to become active participants in shaping their communities and advocating for positive change. Thus, art’s influence extends far beyond aesthetics; it stimulates our minds, stirs our emotions and encourages us to explore the depths of human experience. Ultimately, art leaves an indelible mark on our lives, serving as a testament to our creativity, resilience, and capacity to connect with one another across time and space yet the amount of known art collectors is still slim."
"Ruddie’s advice for future entrepreneurs who want to create their own “annuity” and lottery ticket is to focus on an idea that has merit, work hard and dedicate your life to it while ignoring the noise and distractions that won’t bring you peace and prosperity.
After COVID-19 ran rampant in Maryland, and as many high-net-worth residents and business owners became tired of cold weather, high taxes and state leadership, Ruddie migrated south to Florida. He believes a trend of traveling down Interstate 95 to places like South Carolina and Florida to work and come back to visit Maryland will become the norm.
Ruddie still maintains a home in Baltimore that has sentimental art from his grandmother. In his office just outside of the Maryland border, the art aficionado has a beautiful painting that hangs over his desk. People often look at it and wonder if it’s a painting or a photo. When you look at it up close and see the charcoal, it makes a lasting impact the way art should."
Baltimore does maintain one of the worlds best aquariums which has dolphins swimming around but there is no longer a dolphin show.
