This past weekend, Boss and I were honored to take part in a magnificent celebration that included a crowd of Birmingham friends, a pair of “I do’s”, and one madly delicious wedding cake. As I looked around at the reception, I noticed a filmmaker, a storyteller, a printmaker (or two), a gallery owner, a photographer, a writer…so much creative energy filled the room.
As we drove back toward Vulcan’s Valley, I began to wonder…
Am I taking full advantage of Birmingham’s incredibly rich arts scene? Are my children exposed to the immense talent that’s practically at our doorstep? Have I supported a local artisan lately?
Sadly, the answer is no.
And so, beginning right now, that must change.
This week, with both boys in tow, I will set out on the ultimate art-seeking journey, right here in Jones Valley. {If you follow me on Twitter, keep up via #BhamArtAdventure.}
We’ll start our grand tour at the Birmingham Museum of Art, where we’ll check out the newly renovated children’s area (Bart’s ArtVenture) and then I’ll treat myself to a little Warhol.
Since it’s my favorite funky Magic City enclave, we’ll stop by Naked Art Gallery in Forest Park to pick up a housewarming goodie for our friends in Memphis who have invited us up for the weekend. We’ll be sure to say hello to Vero and we’ll thank her for all she does to support the local art scene. (While we’re in the neighborhood, we might even skip across the street to V. Richard’s to look for some local culinary “art” to take home for Boss.)
We most certainly will take a little time to chat with City Arts Boutique owner Brooke Fleming, to ask her all about creating a new business and creative platform in the heart of historic Woodlawn, held high by a wide range of local artisans and their wares.
It will be fun to head out on foot (and double stroller) to look for architectural nuances and hopefully make a new discovery or two. (God, let there be cool breezes.)
We’ll absolutely take in Space One Eleven’s urban graffiti covering the walls along Birmingham Green on 20th Street North.
And, as I’m sure we’ll be plenty inspired, we’ll even create a little art of our own, right here at the Birmingham Bungalow.
Now, before we set off on this great adventure, won’t you be so kind as to suggest some of your own Magic City art finds/favs? The art lover in me (and Sweet Pea and Butterbean, too) thanks you!
