Celebrate + support local artists at this unique show hosted by AIDS Alabama—Dec. 5-22

Sponsored

You know what they say—good things come in small packages.

On Thursday, December 5, AIDS Alabama is partnering with Gallery VOX and Birmingham’s vibrant arts community for 5×5 Loud & Clear—an art exhibition featuring small works created by both renowned and emerging artists.

We sat down with independent curator Paul Barrett, who organized the show, to discuss the impact of this special event.

5×5 Loud & Clear—opening Dec. 5

Inspired by the radio phrase “5 by 5″, meaning loud and clear, this event is dedicated to delivering bold, unmistakable messages against stigma and hate speech.

The remarkable works will drive activism, advocate for those impacted by HIV and spark meaningful change within our community.

• What: 5×5 Loud & Clear 
• When: Thursday, December 5 | 6PM
• Where: Gallery VOX, 1623 Pinson St, Birmingham, AL 35217
• Cost: Free 6-9PM | $50 for Early Access 5-6PM

5×5 Loud and Clear will run at Gallery VOX until December 22.

Want to express your advocacy loud and clear this Giving Tuesday? If you make a donation of $50 or more, you’ll be granted VIP access to the show one hour before doors open. Plus, you’ll have the ability to purchase one piece of artwork.

Supporting local artists

As an independent curator, Paul Barrett understands the value of supporting the creative community.

In lieu of asking artists to donate free work to the exhibition, 50% of the proceeds will go directly to the artists, with 25% supporting AIDS Alabama’s life-sustaining programs.

For Paul, supporting AIDS Alabama and the fantastic work they do is not only important, but personal.

“I have had the opportunity to see firsthand some of the great work that AIDS Alabama has been doing over the years.

Within the last couple of years, I have personally taken friends to them for services, and as part of that process, went to one of their clinics to get myself enrolled to get PREP to protect myself from HIV transmission.”

Paul Barrett, Curator

Get a sneak peek of the art at 5×5 Loud & Clear 

This one-of-a-kind exhibition showcases an array of small art prints by talented artists, including:

• John Lytle Wilson
• Veronique Vanblaere
• Delaine Derry Green
• Stacey Holloway
• Karen Graffeo
• Tara Stallworth Lee
• Kit Emslie

View the full list of contributing artists.

In addition to the many small works, Paul has also asked a few select artists to feature large, full-size works that will also be available for purchase.

At the gallery, you’ll likely see some familiar artists with local ties.

“We have a lot of folks with Alabama ties. We have two pieces from Herb Williams, who created a sculpture installation at the Atlanta airport.

We also have work by Wayne White, who is probably best known for the work that he did on Pee Wee’s Playhouse back in the day. If you’re old enough to remember, he was the art director on Peter Gabriel’s video for Big Time and the Smashing Pumpkins’ video for Tonight, Tonight.“

Paul Barrett, Curator

Regarding art as a powerful force of change

Art has a powerful ability to challenge and change perceptions, making it a vital tool in combating the stigma associated with HIV.

5×5 Loud & Clear isn’t just an art show—it’s an opportunity to take a stand, create change and experience the transformative power of art.

Established in 1986, AIDS Alabama is the only statewide AIDS service organization, empowering folks affected by and at risk for HIV to lead healthy, independent lives.

“AIDS Alabama does work to benefit everybody, but while these issues affect lots of people broadly, some people are more uniquely threatened or at risk.

We’re trying to do our part to support a very crucial organization at a very pivotal moment to support the artists in our community and energize people to go out, look at art and retain this feeling of community.”

Paul Barrett, Curator

Whether you’re holiday shopping or passionate about supporting local artists, don’t miss 5×5 Loud & Clear at Gallery VOX, available to view from December 5-22. Donate $50 or more to gain VIP access.

Sponsored by: