City Center Art is Space One Eleven’s afterschool studio art program for students of all skill levels and is designed to build visual communication skills and foster creative thinking. Through individually conceived projects and collaborations, young artists learn the elements of art and principles of design, strengthen foundation skills, and further their understanding of art criticism, art theory, and art history.

Grades 2-3: Tuesday, 4:00pm - 6:00pm

Grades 4-5: Monday, 4:00pm - 6:00pm

Grades 6-8: Wednesday, 4:00pm - 6:00pm

Grades 9-12: Saturday, 10:00am - 1:00pm

On view in the First Floor Gallery, "Art on the Inside" features works in an array of media, including watercolor, pencil, pastel, mixed-media collage, and handmade paper. The largest work in the show is an eye-catching collaboration among APAEP artists, nationally renowned artist Tameca Cole, and New Orleans-based Brendon Palmer-Angell. The present exhibition marks the unveiling of the mural, which is titled "Can You See You?".

Based at Auburn University, the Alabama Prison Arts + Education Project works to create spaces where currently and formerly incarcerated individuals can practice meaningful engagement with the arts and develop their own artistic voices. Founded with the knowledge that creativity is an essential trait of humanity, the program has grown from one poet teaching one class in one facility to hundreds of classes that have reached thousands of students at over 12 facilities. This exhibition is made possible by a grant awarded to the Friends Foundation of BPL by the Alabama State Council on the Arts.

In this class by Sam Roberts, kids will explore a variety of fun visual art activities using varied materials to create unique works of art while learning the basic elements that make up the creations we see every day. Focusing on process-based art, students will enjoy the experience of creating, paying attention to the steps and moments that lead to the final product. Through these activities, budding artists will have the opportunity to express themselves, make choices, discover new things, and learn about the materials and techniques that shape their creative process. Artist Bio: Sam Roberts is a Birmingham-based interdisciplinary artist, educator, and curator. Their creative process blends organized chaos with research, helping them explore themes of healing trauma, identity, and connection. Through a balance of conceptual planning and intuitive practices, Sam delves into layered approaches to art, using their work to process emotions, thoughts, and understand the world around them.

Storytelling has been a powerful tool throughout history, connecting people and inspiring change. In this advanced class by Jenny-Rebecca Lewis, participants will build on the story-writing skills learned in 101, with time and guidance to further develop their work. The class includes six hours of dedicated writing and planning, with a supportive community to offer feedback and encouragement. Practical aspects like copyright, self-publishing, working with book agents, and getting published will also be covered. Additionally, the illustration process will be explored to help bring your story to life! Artist Bio: After a successful 17-year career at a prestigious law firm in New York, Jenny-Rebecca Lewis embarked on a transformative journey of self-discovery and spiritual exploration. Returning to her roots in Alabama, she delves into the beauty of her soul and lineage, uncovering her true life’s purpose. Through her art, writing, teaching, and community-building, Lewis inspires and supports others in their journey toward self-love and personal growth. 

"Issues" is a series of new canvases by local artist Jourdan Truth McGowan. The featured paintings are imagined covers of iconic magazines, in which McGowan makes bold commentaries on culture, politics, religion, and other topics. The paintings invite viewers to engage in meaningful reflection and dialogue on the pressing challenges of our time.

Jourdan Truth McGowan is a full-time artist from Enterprise, Alabama, who brings his own experiences and cultural heritage into every brushstroke of his paintings. By telling stories that are both inspirational and deeply human, his art speaks to people of all backgrounds, transcending barriers to connect on a universal level. For more information about McGowan, www.artoftruth.guru.

This exhibition is made possible by a grant awarded to the Friends Foundation of BPL by the Alabama State Council on the Arts.

(Preschool) Join us for a good ol’ time with Miss Aaliyah’s energizing storytime to get everyone ready for the day!

(K-5th Grade) Spend an afternoon with our friends from the Greater Birmingham Humane Society by reading (or just simply hanging out) with some friendly pups!

Join our fun and engaging small group keyboard class designed for elementary students! With only 4 students per class, each child receives personalized attention from our experienced instructor. Students will learn the layout of the keyboard, basic music theory, and how to play simple songs. They will also be introduced to reading sheet music and developing proper techniques all while participating in interactive activities and performance opportunities. This class is perfect for young beginners eager to explore the world of music in a friendly and supportive setting. Artist Bio: Ahmun Miles, a classically trained pianist from Birmingham/Bessemer, Alabama, brings over 18 years of musical expertise to her students as the owner and head instructor of Piamistry. An accomplished musician, Miles is a member of the Birmingham Music Teachers Association and the National Federated Music Club, earning superior and excellent ratings in music theory and performance. With a background in Music Theory and Performance from the University of Alabama at Birmingham, she has been recognized as a Steinway and Sons Educational Partner and was named Samford University Lecturer of the Year in 2023.