Reviewed by: Grace Howard
Irondale gets new affordable housing featuring murals by Birmingham artist
Reading time: 3 minutes
This year, two residential buildings in Irondale will be adapted into 226 affordable housing units.
Spearheaded by Endeavor Group Real Estate (EGRE), the project will feature a series of 10 murals by Birmingham native artist Rob Clifton.
Read on to learn more about this neighborhood project and what to expect.
About Birmingham native artist Rob Clifton
Clifton, a Birmingham native with a Bachelor of Fine Arts from UAB, is currently pursuing his Master’s of Fine Arts at Florida State University and has returned home for the project.
The murals will be a series of horizontal panels across two buildings that highlight the diverse cultural heritage of America.
Inspired by late NYC graffiti artist Keith Haring, the symbols in these murals aim to highlight the cultural diversity of North America and pay respect to local indigenous history, specifically those of the Southwest, like Hopi, Navajo and Lakota.
Inspiration has also been drawn from the local indigenous culture of Moundville, Alabama.
“The symbols and meaning behind these murals celebrate the vibrancy and variety of different cultures throughout the United States. It is important to recognize and appreciate people from all backgrounds and these paintings will act as a monument that acknowledges the value of cultural identity.”
Rob Clifton
60 units to be completed in June
According to a recent press release, the first 60 units of the project are expected to finish construction towards the end of June 2025. The murals are now underway, with a target completion date of August 2025.
“Part of the new energy we are bringing to the Crestwood development is one of vibrant arts and community. Rob’s work will add a great deal to this community.”
Richard Rubin, Managing Partner of EGRE
The goal for these murals is to add visual interest and creativity to the area, especially for those living in affordable housing units.
“No matter where you are in life, I think it’s important for you to know that some people are looking out for you, that they care about you, and I think that’s what this mural kind of says.
It’s focused on affordable housing units, and often those are overlooked. The fact that this company is taking the time to get a muralist to paint this space shows that somebody does care about those communities.”
Rob Clifton
What do you think about this new addition to the Irondale community? Tag us @bhamnow + let me know.
