Beacon of Renewal: Expanding EVA’s Creative Home

East Village Arts has applied for a Creative Places Grant from the Alabama State Council on the Arts as part of our capital campaign to renovate our historic 8,000-square-foot building. We will learn in March whether this transformative investment becomes a reality. The proposed project—Beacon of Renewal—focuses on essential first-phase improvements: a new roof, expanded HVAC system, and a restored front façade. These upgrades will strengthen safety, accessibility, and long-term preservation while preparing the building to serve as a fully activated creative hub for years to come.

This is more than repair work. It is about capacity. With these improvements, EVA will be able to:

• Ensure year-round reliability. Programs will no longer be disrupted by leaks, storms, or extreme temperatures—providing dependable access for artists and audiences.

• Protect and expand exhibitions. Stable climate control allows us to safely display more work, including pieces sensitive to humidity and heat.

• Activate all 12 studios. Fully climate-controlled studios mean more working artists can create and sustain their practice at EVA.

• Support visiting and resident artists. Performances, workshops, and collaborations can take place in a professional-grade environment designed for artistic excellence.

• Launch new weekly initiatives. Plans include Open House/Open Studio Saturdays and expanded members’ exhibitions that deepen public engagement.

• Reimagine creative spaces. Renovations will unlock two classrooms, a conference room, a Green Room for performers, and a Library Room for writers and art lovers.

If awarded, the Creative Places Grant will require matching funds—meaning our capital campaign remains essential. Community support will help bring this vision fully to life. Beacon of Renewal represents EVA’s commitment to investing in both people and place. By strengthening our physical home, we expand access to the arts, deepen community connection, and ensure that EVA continues to serve as a lasting center for artistic experimentation and gathering across Birmingham and beyond.

We look forward to sharing news in March—and to continuing this work together.