A group of artists in the city have created a new mural to welcome newcomers and natives alike with a familiar sentiment, “It’s Nice To Have You in Birmingham.”
The group’s first mural in a public space, sponsored by REV Birmingham, is in Woodlawn off of First Avenue South between 55th Place and 55th Street and is nearly completed.
The sign is a retro tribute to a 1950s slogan that has been resurrected by the city’s fans and proponents.
The Magic City Mural Collective is a group of artists and designers who aim to elevate the aesthetic presence of Birmingham, reflected by its buildings and walls. University of Alabama at Birmingham Department of Art and Art History Assistant Professor Doug Baulos, MFA, and Studio Teaching Lab Specialist Bo Hughins, a UAB Art graduate, are volunteer members, along with UAB Art alumna and adjunct teacher Merrilee Challiss.“There are about eight very active members of the collective, of all ages and diverse backgrounds,” said Baulos. “We have done several projects and have meetings this week about many more, and I plan to involve students in our department in the future.”