“The Guardians project is so important for me because it's my chance to say, hey, I was here, I did try my best to contribute, I left my mark, I left something behind to say I was a part of trying to make that change."  

- Tayler Mugar, Harlem Park West

The Guardians is more than the exhibit of photos and stories—it is a movement, an organizing effort, and a piece of history founded on the work of women who spend their lives fighting for a better Baltimore. It is also the ongoing exploration of how art can make real, lasting change that can help us see realities and (re)shape culture. It can shift the narrative, bringing people together across generations and boundaries. It helps us heal.

The process of The Guardians project begins with interviewing the community leaders involved in the project about their experiences as Baltimoreans, the work they have done for the city, and changes they would like to see. The Guardians are then photographed by Baltimore-based, self-taught photographer, Kirby Griffin, in their communities at locations they have selected. The Guardians are engaged in all aspects of the planning of this project through monthly meetings where they can share resources with each other and decide what questions should be asked of future Guardians in their interviews. An annual event showcases their portraits and stories; in 2021 they received Mayoral citations at a culminating event presented by the Peale at nearby Carroll Mansion. In addition to an exhibition, The Guardians' portraits hang on the front of City Hall, and are displayed along with their recorded stories on digital kiosks around the city. By repeating this process, The Guardians cohort becomes larger, stronger, and more visible every year.

We now have 25 Guardians representing all corners of Baltimore City