Mission 

East Village Arts (EVA) champions emerging and established artists through affordable studios, innovative programming, and community collaboration. As an arts center for visual, performing, and literary arts, EVA elevates new ideas and underrepresented voices. 

Vision

We envision a vital, inclusive arts hub—a creative engine expanding opportunity and shaping Alabama’s cultural landscape for generations.

East Village Arts is a 501 (C) 3 nonprofit organization.

Programming

EVA’s programming fills a unique role by offering multidisciplinary arts and diverse voices in a single community space.

Visual Arts

EVA’s exhibitions highlight Alabama artists while bringing global work to East Lake. Recent shows include Randy Gachet’s sculptures exploring landscape and memory through reclaimed industrial materials; the Alabama Iron Casting Artists exhibition celebrating the state’s foundry traditions; and Nigerian artist Prince Tunde Odunlade’s large-scale beaded batik works reflecting the life and spirit of his community. Echoes Surréalistes Contemporaines presented contemporary surrealists from Egypt, France, Canada, Australia, Britain, Scotland, the United States, and Peru.

Performing Arts

Performance programming connects audiences to wide-ranging musical traditions. Annual events such as the Birmingham Guitar Festival unite regional and national musicians. The Annual Sun Ra Festival features current Arkestra band members, films, and educational panels on Birmingham’s jazz legacy. Additional concerts—such as the Ukraine Tour and the Venezuelan–Appalachian duo Larry & Joe—introduce global music alongside emerging local artists.

Literary Arts

EVA supports literary arts through spoken word and storytelling. EVA regularly hosts Bards & Brews with the Birmingham Public Library, featuring poets, musicians, and tributes to Brian “Voice Porter” Hawkins.  In 2026, EVA will host a poetry reading featuring three of Alabama’s Poet Laureates.