ThomasProject 40 1 A look into 5 Birmingham art organizations + how to get involved — Tim Poe of the Thomas Project showing his artwork he’s dubbed “Eglomise’ with Reflective Elements”. Photo via Bham Now

Art organizations are part of what makes Birmingham shine so bright, but they’re hurting the most during the era of COVID-19. Supporting our most creative in the Magic City doesn’t always look like a donation‚ although those definitely don’t hurt! Give back by attending events, taking a class, sharing their messages on social and more.

1. Shelby County Arts Council

Shelby County Arts Council 3 A look into 5 Birmingham art organizations + how to get involved — Whether you’re into guitar or pottery, the Shelby County Arts Council has you covered with a class. Photos via Shelby County Arts Council’s Facebook

shelby county arts council A look into 5 Birmingham art organizations + how to get involved — Whether you’re into guitar or pottery, the Shelby County Arts Council has you covered with a class. Photos via Shelby County Arts Council’s Facebook

The Shelby County Arts Council has resumed socially distant classes and events—including live music. Stream live performances for free at the Black Box Theatre, and don’t miss their upcoming Southern Expressionists Exhibit Opening on September 10!

Get involved: Upcoming events | Classes | Donate | Become a member
Learn more: Website | Facebook | Instagram

2. The Bluff Park Art Association

BPAA A look into 5 Birmingham art organizations + how to get involved — Scenes from last year’s Bluff Park Art Show. Photos via The Bluff Park Art Assocation’s Facebook

68998484 1395856717232682 50472527222276096 n A look into 5 Birmingham art organizations + how to get involved — Scenes from last year’s Bluff Park Art Show. Photos via The Bluff Park Art Assocation’s Facebook

Unfortunately, the Bluff Park Art Show is canceled for the first time in 56 years. We want to ensure we’re able to meet artists and creatives alike in October 2021, but, mostly, we need to make up for the resources the art show brings in as the main fundraising event. The BPAA funds public sculptures, donates to the Birmingham Museum of Art, awards college scholarships and more. Without it, there would be a lot less creativity in Birmingham.

Get involved: If you would like to make a tax-deductible contribution, please make checks payable and mail to: Bluff Park Art Association P.O. Box 26012 Birmingham, AL 35260
Learn more: Website | Facebook | Instagram

3. Magic City Art Connection

mcac 1 A look into 5 Birmingham art organizations + how to get involved — The Bham Now team at Magic City Art Connection’s last in-person winter benefit, Eccentricities: A Leap Year Art Bash. Photos by Liesa Cole of Studio GoodLight

mcac 5 A look into 5 Birmingham art organizations + how to get involved — The Bham Now team at Magic City Art Connection’s last in-person winter benefit, Eccentricities: A Leap Year Art Bash. Photos by Liesa Cole of Studio GoodLight

After canceling the in-person Magic City Art Connection Fest in April, we’re thrilled to see a new fusion event from Birmingham’s grooviest art fam coming our way in November. MOSS MAGIC, will feature Moss Rock Festival with special guest Magic City Art Connection November 7-8 at The Preserve in Hoover. Needless to say, we’re already circling our calendar twice for this one.

Get involved: Details on MOSS MAGIC | Stay tuned for announcements | Donate
Learn more: Website | Facebook | Instagram

4. Space One Eleven

SpaceOneEleven A look into 5 Birmingham art organizations + how to get involved — Space One Eleven caters to budding artists and professionals looks to showcase their work. Photos via Space One Eleven’s Facebook

SOE A look into 5 Birmingham art organizations + how to get involved — Space One Eleven caters to budding artists and professionals looks to showcase their work. Photos via Space One Eleven’s Facebook

For those unfamiliar, Space One Eleven provides professional opportunities for Birmingham artists. The team also creates open discussion in the art world, promotes education among adults and provides classes to our youngest residents.

Want a peek at how they’re helping Birmingham’s youth find their passion in the arts? Take a look at SOE’s Annual Student and Teaching Artist Online Exhibition that showcases the work of young artists who attended their 2020 summer art camps.

Get involved: All Classes | Adult Art Classes | Donate
Learn more: Website | Facebook | Instagram

5. Alabama Asian Cultures Foundation

Alabama Asian Cultures Foundation A look into 5 Birmingham art organizations + how to get involved — A 2018 sold-out performance of “Chitrangada, the Warrior Princess,” written by the Nobel Laureate Ramandranath Pronath, by Notinee Indian Dance Company and Creations Dance Group. Photo via Alabama Asian Cultures Foundation’s Facebook.

The annual Alabama Asian Festival was moved to April 2021, meaning this important organization could use some extra love right now. The nonprofit supports artistic and cultural organizations within the Asian communities in Birmingham and across Alabama.

Get involved: Discover ongoing programs | Become a festival sponsor | Donate
Learn more: Website | Facebook

Even more ways give back 🎨 🖌️

concerttoo scaled 1 A look into 5 Birmingham art organizations + how to get involved — We are looking forward to seeing a full house like this one again. *Photo via The Alabama Symphony Orchestra*

You can probably tell we’re all about the amazing and growing art scene in Birmingham. Everyone wants to continue to see it thrive—pandemic or not. Take a look at more resources for how to stay active in the community and support places like the Birmingham Museum of Art, VINEGAR, music venus and others.

Supporting directly

Supporting creatively

Supporting through change

Are you an individual artist looking for support?

mason jar of paintbrush lot — Pick up your paint brush—there are opportunities out there. Photo via Unsplash

All of the organizations can help local artists get into galleries, find places to display work and connect you with the community. Create Bham is another great resource for creatives in all mediums looking for help.

Updated COVID-19 relief page

Recently, Create Bham shared a great organization listing national grants and fellowships. Each month, even through the pandemic, they provide a list of art opportunities.