Birmingham has always been a city filled with art, culture, and creativity. Every street, mural, and performance speaks of its artistic spirit.
Now, this passion has taken a new direction with a special project — the Birmingham Arts Education Nexus.
It is not just another organization; it is a movement ensuring that every child in Birmingham receives quality arts education, regardless of background.
Who We Are and What We Do
We are Amp Up Arts Birmingham, a project of the Alabama State Council on the Arts.
Our mission is simple yet powerful — to connect, empower, and inspire.
We bring together:
- Arts teachers
- Schools
- Community partners
to build an ecosystem where arts education thrives for generations to come.
Our Mission: Equal Opportunity, Creativity, and Freedom to Learn
At the heart of the Birmingham Arts Education Nexus is one belief — every child deserves access to the arts.
We see creativity not as another subject, but as a way of thinking, expressing, and learning for life.
Why Arts Matter for Children
- Builds personality and sensitivity
- Encourages imagination and innovation
- Strengthens social connection
- Fosters discipline, confidence, and communication
Whether it is painting, music, or theatre — art shapes the way children see and change the world.
How We Work
Our work goes beyond schools — we bring communities, educators, and artists together.
We Stand on Three Pillars
- Equal Opportunity: Every child, whether in public or private school, deserves arts education.
- Support for Teachers and Artists: We offer training, resources, and networking opportunities to help educators teach creatively.
- Innovation and Sustainability: We bridge schools and communities to create lasting, creative programs.
Amp Up Arts Birmingham – Giving Voice to the Arts
As part of Amp Up Arts Birmingham, we proudly contribute to an initiative that integrates art into education.
This collaboration among Alabama’s regional centers ensures that arts are not extracurricular, but an essential part of learning.
Example:
When teaching history, teachers use local artwork to help children experience history through creative expression.
Arts Education Network – A Creative Community with Life
Our Arts Education Network connects teachers, artists, and community leaders across Birmingham.
Through the Network You Can
- Connect with other arts educators
- Share new teaching methods and ideas
- Participate in workshops and funding programs
- Form partnerships to bring art into more schools
When teachers, parents, and artists unite, creativity multiplies.
Magic City Minds – Where Education Meets Creativity
Our special initiative, Magic City Minds, makes learning fun and engaging by combining art and education.
Children learn through:
- Drama
- Music
- Painting
- Dance
- Creative writing
Example:
Kids paint geometric shapes in math or act out science concepts, turning complex lessons into joyful learning experiences.
Result:
Children become more confident, curious, and imaginative — proving that when education meets creativity, transformation happens.
Artist and Teacher Training – Building a Strong Foundation
We believe that strong arts education starts with trained teachers and inspired artists.
Our Training Includes
- Arts Integration Workshops: How to blend art with subjects like math, science, and language.
- Teacher Residencies: Artists work directly in classrooms to share creative teaching methods.
- Annual Conferences: Educators and artists meet to share ideas and form new partnerships.
PRISM – A Rainbow World of Art
PRISM unites every art form in Birmingham — music, theatre, dance, visual arts, and writing.
It helps people easily discover local art programs, classes, and events.
Whether you are:
- A student looking for music lessons
- A parent searching for creative classes
- A teacher wanting to join a theatre group
PRISM connects you with the right opportunities.
Arts Education Resources – Support for Schools and Communities
Our Arts Education Resource Center offers valuable tools and materials for teachers and community members.
Available Resources
- Curriculum guides and lesson plans
- Advocacy materials for schools and parents
- Grants and funding opportunities
- Directory of artists and organizations
These resources make it easier to integrate art into daily learning.
Why Arts Education Matters
Art is not just entertainment — it is education for the heart and mind.
Research Shows That
- Students in arts programs perform better academically
- They develop stronger communication and problem-solving skills
- They become more empathetic and culturally aware
In a diverse city like Birmingham, arts education builds bridges between creativity and community.
How You Can Get Involved
Everyone can play a part in this movement — teachers, parents, artists, and community members alike.
Ways to Contribute
- Join the Arts Education Network
- Start an arts program at your school through Magic City Minds
- Attend training workshops and events
- Explore opportunities through PRISM
- Volunteer or donate to local arts initiatives
Every small effort helps nurture Birmingham’s creative future.
Conclusion – Creating a Creative Future Together
The Birmingham Arts Education Nexus is more than an organization — it is a community movement that believes creativity is a human right.
Together with Amp Up Arts Birmingham, we are ensuring that every child:
- Discovers their artistic voice
- Unlocks their imagination
- Builds a brighter, more creative future
Let us pledge together that every child in Birmingham may experience the power of art, and that our city will always shine with creativity.