Birmingham is a city which in recent times has constantly begun to change and grow, and that seems to be no different in relation to the artistic scene which is evolving with it! With so many new and illuminating art projects, installations, and galleries popping up, we’ve put together five local spots which you might not have heard of but are definitely worth checking out.
Vinegar Projects
This female led, artist run nonprofit space is truly a safe haven for art lovers everywhere. Located within the Forest Park neighborhood of Birmingham, this space has become a focal point in its support for emerging, experimental artists who wish to create and showcase their work. Vinegar contemporary’s latest exhibition will be shown until March 19 and celebrates John Powers’ "Vivarium," which is truly an otherworldly sound, video, and sculptural instillation. With lots of opportunities to get involved, as either a viewer or budding artist yourself, if you’re looking for an experience which pushes artistic boundaries, the unique work going on at Vinegar Projects could be perfect for you.
Ground Floor Contemporary
Dedicated to broadening and bringing new visual art to the city of Birmingham, Ground Floor Contemporary has provided an exciting and professional gallery setting for artwork to be discussed, viewed, and enjoyed. The gallery space is open to the public from 1-4 p.m. on Saturdays and by appointment, and their upcoming exhibition "Perspectives" by artists Renee Hanan Plata, Elisabeth Pellathy, and Chiharu Roach will open March 3. Importantly, Ground Floor Contemporary also uses their space to give artists a platform to talk about their work and engage with the community through regular Artist Talk events, and with one approaching on March 12, we hope to see you there!
Paperworkers Local
This nonprofit artist's organization was established back in 2013 and ever since its opening, Paperworkers Local has been bringing a hands-on, creative experience and viewing of local printmakers and other paper based artists to the city. It seems there’s always a fun workshop or gallery viewing to attend and if you want to get a taste of some of the work going on, the Members Show on March 3 will celebrate and showcase over 20 of their established members. If you’re looking for a new way to get involved with a range of fun mixed medias, be sure to check out their website for all the details.
Art Alley
If you’re not as interested in learning to create art, what better way to get involved than supporting other regional and local artists by bringing home one of their own masterpieces! Nestled in the historic district of Edgewood, this unique gallery specializes in south-eastern regional art, and is filled from floor to ceiling with intriguing pieces of every shape and size. Representing over 75 artists, if you’re looking for abstract or realism, acrylic or oil, or maybe even something sculptural, this gallery may be small but there’s guaranteed to be something for everyone.
Space One Eleven Gallery
This gallery has firmly established its place in the heart of downtown Birmingham as an exciting hub for professional artists and art lovers alike. Peter Prinz saw the need for a space in the city in which artists are celebrated and art education could be provided to lower income adults and children. This gallery also ensures that a lot of minority artists are given a chance to showcase their beautiful and often thought-provoking art within a clean, modern and supportive exhibition space. Currently, talented artist David Baird who has taught classes in various locations around the world, is giving professional, weekly figurative drawing classes as part of the gallery’s ARTfix event. For the chance to enhance your artistic skills and work from live models, check out the Space One Eleven website for more details.
Photo Credit: Taken by the author at the Space One Eleven Gallery. This piece is called the "Spirit, Owl" by Marie Weaver.
