Supporting Local Artists and Creatives in Birmingham | Your Guide to Keeping Our Art Scene Thriving
Birmingham is bursting with creativity. From vibrant murals in historic neighborhoods to art fairs showcasing local talent, our city is a powerhouse of creative expression—and it’s all fueled by passionate, talented artists who pour their heart and soul into their work. As a photographer deeply connected to this community, I’m excited to share how we can all do a little more to support our local artists and keep Birmingham’s creative spirit alive.
Supporting local artists doesn’t just help them thrive; it’s also a way to bring more beauty, meaning, and connection into our lives. Plus, it’s fun! Here are some easy, impactful ways to get involved in Birmingham’s art scene and support the people who make it special.
Shop Locally for Unique Art Pieces
Buying art doesn’t have to mean dropping big bucks at a gallery. In Birmingham, local artists offer everything from handmade jewelry and ceramics to stunning prints and photography. When you buy from local creatives, you’re not just getting a beautiful, unique piece; you’re also supporting someone’s dream and investing directly in our community.
Some great places to find local art include:
Community Art Centers: Follow my (501c3) Non-Profit organization Arts Trussville to keep up with upcoming art events, featured artists, and more in the Trussville & Birmingham areas.
Art Fairs and Markets: Check out the Magic City Art Connection or the Pepper Place Market, which often feature artists selling their work.
Pop-Up Shops and Galleries: Places like Forstall Art Center and Thomas Project Gallery are always buzzing with local talent.
Online Platforms and Social Media: Many Birmingham artists showcase their work on Instagram, Etsy, and even their own websites. Give them a follow, and you might discover a piece you just have to have.
Commission Custom Art
Looking for something truly one-of-a-kind? Commissioning a local artist to create a custom piece just for you is an incredible way to show support. Whether it's a family portrait, a piece of digital art, or something for your business, artists love working on meaningful projects and are usually happy to bring your vision to life.
The best part? You get to work directly with the artist, collaborate on the concept, and end up with a creation that’s unique to you. It’s a beautiful way to support an artist’s work and get something truly special in return.
Attend Local Art Events
There’s something magical about an art event. From gallery openings to live music shows to poetry readings, Birmingham has a little bit of everything. And by attending, you’re showing up for the community in a way that’s both fun and impactful. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to meet like-minded people who share your love for the arts.
Keep an eye out for these events:
TED (Trussville Entertainment District): Ferus Artisan Ales in Trussville is a fantastic spot to experience local art, music, and community events! They frequently host a variety of gatherings featuring Artists & Musicians, family nights, fall festivals, and more.
Concerts and Music Festivals: Many local musicians play at venues like Saturn, WorkPlay, and Avondale Brewing Company. Your ticket purchase helps support these amazing artists directly.
Gallery Nights: Birmingham has a variety of galleries that host evening events where you can view (and often purchase) pieces, meet artists, and connect with other art lovers.
Share Their Work on Social Media
Sometimes, supporting local artists is as simple as spreading the word. If you love a piece of art, an artist’s work, or a show you attended, share it! Social media can be a huge source of exposure for artists, so when you share a photo, tag the artist, and encourage your friends to check them out, it makes a real impact.
Even a quick shout-out or “like” goes a long way in helping them reach new audiences and potential clients. You’ll not only be supporting the artist but also helping to keep Birmingham’s creative energy thriving and visible to a wider audience.
Volunteer or Donate to Art Organizations
If you’re passionate about supporting the arts but not sure where to start, consider volunteering for or donating to local arts organizations. Nonprofits and community groups work hard to support local artists, organize events, and provide resources that keep the art scene vibrant.
Some groups to check out include:
Create Birmingham – An organization dedicated to growing Birmingham’s creative industry through grants, programs, and advocacy.
Space One Eleven – This nonprofit art center supports local artists through exhibitions, workshops, and studio space.
Arts Trussville – A nonprofit organization that hosts events, art festivals, and community arts projects in the Birmingham area.
Even small contributions of time or money can help these organizations continue their work—and keep Birmingham’s art scene vibrant.
Give the Gift of Local Art
If you’re looking for a unique gift that’s full of meaning, why not give the gift of local art? Whether it’s a hand-thrown ceramic mug, a beautiful painting, or a unique print, you’ll find gifts that are far more personal than anything mass-produced. You’ll also be able to tell your loved ones the story of the artist behind the piece, making the gift even more special.
Plus, giving art is a great way to introduce others to Birmingham’s creative community and inspire them to support it as well!
Follow and Support Artist-Friendly Businesses
Many local businesses collaborate with artists by showcasing their work or hosting creative events. Coffee shops, breweries, and boutiques often support local artists by displaying their art, hosting events, or selling their products. When you support these businesses, you’re also supporting their efforts to boost local creatives.
Some artist-friendly spots to check out:
Revelator Coffee and Seeds Coffee: Often display art from local photographers and painters.
Shoppe: A quirky boutique that features handmade goods from Birmingham artisans.
Join Us in Celebrating Birmingham’s Art Scene
Supporting local artists and creatives isn’t just about making a purchase; it’s about building community, fostering connection, and keeping Birmingham’s culture alive and vibrant. Every time you attend a show, buy a piece of art, share a post, or support a local arts organization, you’re helping our city’s creative spirit thrive.
So, next time you’re looking for something beautiful, meaningful, or even just fun to do, think local! Birmingham’s artists and creatives have so much to offer, and with our support, they can continue to grow, inspire, and bring joy to us all.
Let’s keep this creative energy going—together! And if you have favorite local artists, shows, or places, drop them in the comments! Let's celebrate and support our Birmingham creatives as a community! 🌟
Want to be featured in a blog post on AestheticPortraits.com? Reach out today for a collaboration.
Check out the Gallery below to view some highlights from our recent Gateway Art Festival at the Trussville Entertainment District. Did you come by and view/support our local artists?
What other events and programs would you like for us to host next? Let us know
