MURAL PHOTOS: How Birmingham businesses + artists are using art to express solidarity for change

We can all probably agree that these past few weeks have been difficult. However, the way the Birmingham community has come together is astounding. I can personally say that I’ve never experienced this magnitude of positivity, support and push towards change in my short 22 years of life. Local businesses and artists are bringing powerful art to storefronts. Let’s take a visual tour of the incredible murals bringing hope and good vibes to the Magic City.

Wheelhouse Salon

Unfortunately, Wheelhouse Salon was one of the downtown businesses damaged on the night of May 31. Rather than dwelling on what was lost, they focused on how they can help the community. What was the product? This insanely beautiful mural painted in honor of George Floyd!

“We don’t condone vandalism or looting and we hope other businesses won’t have to experience what we have gone through in the last week but what is worse than vandalism and looting is lives lost to senseless racism.”

Statement from The Wheelhouse Salon Instagram

• Artists: @shanebnsa & @mammothmurals
• Address: 1820 3rd Ave N, Birmingham, AL 35203
• Website | Instagram | GoFundMe

The Modern Brand Co.

What was originally a preventative measure to prepare for possible future vandalism turned into a work of art. You can even add your hand to show support for the Black Lives Matter movement.

• Artist: @themodernbrand
• Address: 1826 3rd Ave N #102, Birmingham, AL 35203

Honeycreeper Chocolate + basic.

Honeycreeper Chocolate and basic. wanted to bring a symbol of hope to Birmingham as soon as the peaceful protests for the Black Lives Matter movement began. They proceeded to create a mural similar to the one you see…until it was painted over by the company that owns the barrier wall. Why was it painted over? I wish I could give you a good answer, but that didn’t stop them. Instead, they just built their own wall and recreated the mural.

“Because the most important takeaway is that BLACK LIVES MATTER. To our family and friends of color—we stand with you, and we will not be silenced until you live as fearlessly in this world as we do. Paint over our words, drown out our cries, but WE WILL NEVER BE SILENT. SAY THEIR NAMES, ALABAMA.”

Statement from basic. on Instagram

• Artists: @bailey.priest + help from family, friends and staff
• Address: 2026 Morris Ave, Birmingham, AL 35203
• Honeycreeper Chocolate | basic.

The Pizitz

The Pizitz and Blank Space Bham joined forces to create this community art project and all of Birmingham was invited to participate on Sunday, June 7.

The mural will remain in front of The Pizitz’s gallery walls even after the rest of the barricade is removed. It’ll serve as a reminder to spread love and peace.

• Artist: @blankspacebham
• Address: 1821 2nd Ave N #3112, Birmingham, AL 35203
• Website | Food Hall | Instagram

Chocolata

• Artist: @brother_andy
• Address: 1927 2nd Ave N, Birmingham, AL 35203
• Website | Instagram

Alabama Theatre

• Artists: Local volunteers
• Address: 1817 3rd Ave N, Birmingham, AL 35203
• Website | Instagram | Donate Here

The Lyric Theatre

• Artist: @johnlytlewilson
• Address: 1800 3rd Ave N, Birmingham, AL 35203
• Website | Instagram

Adam’s Eye Care

• Artist: @bendykneesdesign
• Address: 1712 5th Ave N, Birmingham, AL 35203
• Website | Facebook

Vibestreet Studios

Murals are appearing left and right in Birmingham. This one at Vibestreet Studios honors Breonna Taylor who would have celebrated a birthday this past weekend. Another life cut too short, but her name will never be forgotten.

• Artist: @divareese
• Address: 1203 16th Ave S, Birmingham, AL 35205
• Website | Instagram

Birmingham’s Loft District

The southeast corner of the Loft District has always been a hot spot for creativity whether that be food, clothes, art or even music. Now beautiful 2nd Avenue North between 23rd and 24th Street North is overflowing with powerful works of art. The area radiates with support and solidarity because material things can be replaced. Lives can not. Like most of us, the following businesses have recognized that it’s time for a change.

Charm on 2nd

Charm on 2nd was also damaged during the riots. I just discovered what a gem this shop was this past year. Every time I visited, the owners made sure to make me feel welcomed.

“Lives are more important than material things. We will rebuild but lost lives can not be replaced. Sending love to all of our fellow business owners that were hit. Now more than ever we need to support each other.”

Statement for Charm on 2nd’s Instagram

• Artist: @bendykneesdesign
• Address: 2329 2nd Ave N, Birmingham, AL 35203
• Website | Instagram | GoFundMe

Asthetik Bham

• Artist: @bendykneesdesign
• Address: 212 24th St N, Birmingham, AL 35203
• Website | Instagram

Urban Standard

• Artist: @bendykneesdesign
• Address: 2320 2nd Ave N, Birmingham, AL 35203
• Website | Instagram | GoFundMe

Yo’ Mama’s + Maxwell Tillman

• Artists: @lydiacherie + @beckimarieart + @meeshurs.jpg +
• Address: 2328 2nd Ave N, Birmingham, AL 35203
• Yo’ Mama’s | Instagram | Maxwell Tillman

Zarzaur Law Office

• Artists: Jacqueline Gibson
• Address: 2332 2nd Ave N, Birmingham, AL 35203
• Zarzaur Law Office

Paper Doll

• Artist: @bendykneesdesign
• Address: 2320 1st Ave N, Birmingham, AL 35203
• Website | Instagram

You’re probably wondering who helped coordinate all of these amazing murals. Within less than 24 hours, Gusty Gulas had the support of over 50 artists, musicians and volunteers. Name sound familiar? He’s the founder of Gusty Gulas Group, one of Birmingham’s top real estate companies.

It may be just plywood but this is proof that art and positivity can bring the whole community together for a greater cause. If you’d like to get involved, check out the B’ham Cleanup Facebook group.

We’re so proud to call Bham home! If you find a new mural, make sure to tag us in your photos on Instagram @BhamNow + Twitter @now_bham