Nonprofits host art exhibit, pop-up shop

The Alabama Center for Architecture and the American Institute of Architects Birmingham Chapter have their offices in a downtown storefront that looks more like a contemporary art gallery.

That’s appropriate because the nonprofits — in addition to hosting classes and other events for architects — often present special art and design exhibits for the public.

“Our mission is to educate the public in a fun way about design and architecture,” said Rhea Williams, ACFA executive director.

An art exhibit created by AIA members called Art X Architects will be shown Dec. 1-19.

Santa’s Stocking Stuffers Pop-up Shop will also take place Dec. 1-19, with jewelry, pottery and printed goods on sale, mostly made by AIA members and ACFA patrons. 

ACFA is also selling special Christmas ornaments and prints depicting Alabama tourist attractions and made from watercolors created by Alabama artists and architects. The sale raises money for architecture student scholarships and the ACFA’s statewide K-12 educational programs.

The ornaments and prints are available online and at the pop-up shop.

The facility is located at 109 Richard Arrington Jr. Blvd. S. For details, call 322-4386 or go to aiabham.org.