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A look into 5 Birmingham art organizations + how to get involved
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
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
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
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
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
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 🎨 🖌️
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
- 9 nonprofits supporting arts + culture in Birmingham right now
- 5 Birmingham art galleries + how to support them right now
Supporting creatively
- 7 places for creatives to practice, learn and perfect their craft
- Unleash creative potential at Samford Academy of the Arts’ fall classes
Supporting through change
- This new law could help Birmingham’s performing arts organizations survive COVID + how you can help
- Federal Save Our Stages Act could help preserve Birmingham’s small music venues
Are you an individual artist looking for support?
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.
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.
How will you help save the Birmingham arts? Share it with us on social @BhamNow on Facebook and Instagram, or @Now_Bham on Twitter.
