Via webcast, the Greater Baltimore Cultural Alliance just announced that public voting has begun for the Baker Artist Awards. In making the announcement, GBCA Executive Director Nancy Haragan encouraged folks from Baltimore to Timbuktu to check out the Baker Awards website and vote for their favorite Baltimore area artist before voting close on February 1, 2009. To date, 400 artists of various types have been nominated for the prize. Perusing the work they've posted at the site gives an idea how vibrant the local arts scene has become. Take a few minutes and check it out—you won't be disappointed.

Winners from the public voting will receive up to $5,000. A privately juried process will also award up to three $25,000 prizes.