Baltimore – On July 4, a local performance artist known only as Ham staged a nude rendition of Michelangelo’s David on the marble pedestal that once held a Christopher Columbus statue in Little Italy. The 32‑year‑old, who describes himself as a “public‑square” artist, remained on the pedestal from sunrise until police arrived around 9:30 a.m.

Arrest and Charges

When officers finally intervened, Ham was placed in handcuffs, arrested and later taken to Johns Hopkins Hospital for observation. He was charged with indecent exposure, destruction of property and resisting arrest. His attorney, Chelsey Seger of Towson, said Ham will plead not guilty at a future jury trial.

Artist’s Intent

Ham told our reporter that the performance was meant to create a “nuanced form of freedom, an honest, non‑violent display.” He added that the timing was intentional – not only because of Independence Day, but also to mark the sixth anniversary of the toppling of the Columbus statue by anti‑colonization protesters.

Community Reaction

Reactions in the neighborhood have been mixed. Some residents expressed discomfort, with one passerby quoted by the New York Post describing the stunt as “deranged.” Others praised the act as a bold statement on First Amendment rights. Ham emphasized that his goal is to spark conversation about the limits a free society places on artistic expression.

Financial Settlement

Following the performance, Ham presented a $5,000 check to the Italian American Unity Organization to cover repairs to the iron fence surrounding the empty pedestal. The fence damage was later repaired for about $1,000. The check remains uncashed after the organization’s fiduciary, William Martin, passed away on September 16.

Future Plans

Ham says he intends to continue his public‑art projects, including another self‑portrait that he warns will “not be flattering.” He hopes the publicity will drive traffic to his gallery in the Hollins Market neighborhood and provide opportunities for other emerging artists without financial constraints.

Background

Born into a privileged family, Ham holds a double degree in engineering and studio art from Dartmouth College, where he also minored in German. After working as a construction manager for a prominent Baltimore developer, he left the corporate world six years ago to pursue art full‑time. He lives with his parents in the rural outskirts north of the city.

Legal Outlook

Ham’s attorney expects a not‑guilty plea to be entered at trial. The case highlights an ongoing tension between artistic freedom and public decency laws, a debate that resonates with many Baltimore residents who value both constitutional rights and community standards.

Original reporting: Baltimore Fishbowl — read the source article.