7 places for creatives to practice, learn and perfect their craft
Reading time: 4 minutes
When the world is on pause, it doesn’t stop a creative mind from reeling away. Birmingham has several outlets for those of us that need a little space to create and connect with a community of local artists.
1. Party Art
If you’re someone who creates to relax Party Art has tons of options for you to come in and practice all sorts up mediums from crafts to acrylics. Join one of their open paint nights, educational lessons, such as the Watercolor Pencil Two Day Workshop or gather your quarantine crew for a small group sesh.
- Where: 3183 Lee St, Pelham, AL 35124
- 205-253-2984 | Website | Facebook
2. Virtual Bad Art Night
Art so good it’s bad. The O’Neal Library‘s summer favorite “Bad Art Night” is asking you to show ’em your worst virtually this time. They will provide kits for pickup at the library that will include a masterpiece artwork that you will recreate, random craft supplies, and the secret ingredient that you HAVE to include in your artwork. Prizes go toward the ugliest masterpiece.
- Where: Zoom
- 205-879-0459 | Register for the waitlist | Website
3. VINEGAR
Back in the before times, we wrote about VINEGAR, a women-led nonprofit hosting space for artists to showcase contemporary work. Currently, they’re hosting Shape—a free virtual residency exploring art, activism, agency, and accountability. The event takes place every Tuesday through Zoom and your at-home studio/couch/coffee shop—featuring in-depth discussions led by guest artists and scholars.
- Where: Online
- 205-201-4489 | Register for the waitlist | Facebook
4. Majesty Lounge
The performance art venue is bringing us all kinds of ways to participate through poetry slams, comedy performances and more. You can put your talent to the test through upcoming slams and competetions.
- Where: 1400 9th Ave N Suite 120, Bessemer, AL 35020
- 205-253-3005 | Events | Facebook
5. Birmingham Museum of Art
We’re all eagerly awaiting for the days we can step back into the quiet and cool galleries of the Birmingham Museum of Art. However, creativity doesn’t stop just because the world does and you can still participate in discussions and educate yourself with the experts at the museum. Join Art in Conversation, a monthly virtual series at the BMA that highlights a work of art and invites visitors to join in the dialogue. Don’t miss out on even more ways to learn, create and get your dosage of art through #BMAfromHome.
6. Create Birmingham
Create is always looking out for the interest of small biz and creatives in Birmingham. Stay tuned in to their social channels for online workshops involving topics like how to get started in the music industry, discussions with local artists and others. Right now, they’re hosting a “Recovery Bootcamp” series for help small businesses, nonprofits, artists, and entrepreneurs recover and reconnect.
- Where: Online
- 205-458-1393 | Events | Facebook
7. Shelby County Arts Council
Looking to learn? The Shelby County Arts Council is filled with in-person and socially distant classes to help you get better or get started. Choose from photography, music lessons, pottery and pretty much anything else you can think of. The space is also hosting safe and socially distant live music events if you need a little inspo for your future rockstar dreams.
- Where: 105 W College St, Columbiana, AL 35051
- 205-669-0044 | Classes | Facebook
More of an observer? Check out these 3 upcoming arts and culture events, plus even more ways to support the arts in our Magic City.
Do you know of more ways to practice your craft in Birmingham? Share them with us on social at @BhamNow on Facebook and Instagram, or @Now_Bham on Twitter.
