Spend an evening in conversation with Susan Magsamen, Assistant Professor of Neurology and Founder of The International Arts + Mind Lab at Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine; Co-Founder NeuroArts Blueprint; and co-author of The New York Times bestselling book, Your Brain on Art: How the Arts Transform Us. Discuss how artistic pursuits are far more than hobbies and are vital to the human experience. “I need for my soul and my health and my survival,” Magsamen says. “It’s not a nice to have, it’s a have to have.” Each guest will receive a signed copy of the book. The event takes place in the artful Mount Washington home, gardens, and orchards of Creative Alliance trustee and artist Julia Kim Smith and professor and orchardist Scott Smith. Video installations by Julia Kim Smith and Isaac Oliver will screen in the guest bathroom, and her “Baltimore: Actually, I Like It” sticker and bookmark will be available for guests to take home. Dine on Syrian-inspired cuisine from Mera Kitchen Collective and enjoy one of Mera’s specialty cocktails.

Break out your finest cowboy boots for a true night of Texas Honky Tonk with Two Step dancing. Music by the fabulous Arty Hill and the Long Gone Daddys will get you swinging in true Texas style. Take an introductory dance lesson to get your toes tapping and spend the evening in the party barn with authentic Mexican tacos and beer, wine, and non-alcoholic beverages. Hosted by Brian Flowers and Eliza Gould at Mistfield Farm in Butler, Maryland.