Creative Communities:Navigating Municipal Systems for Creative Impact

Join us in person for an exciting event where we'll dive into how creative minds can work with municipal systems to spark real change. Whether you're an artist, organizer, or just passionate about community growth, this is your chance to learn tips, share ideas, and connect with others who want to make an impact. Don’t miss out on the chance to turn creativity into action!

This foundational workshop introduces participants to the municipal landscape in Birmingham and equips them with the knowledge and tools needed to begin pursuing public-sector creative opportunities. Led by Erica Chisolm, the session demystifies how the City of Birmingham functions, how creative projects move from idea to implementation, and how artists and creative entrepreneurs can position themselves as viable partners in community development.
Participants will gain a practical understanding of Requests for Proposals (RFPs) and Requests for Qualifications (RFQs), including how they are structured, evaluated, and awarded. The workshop also focuses on professional readiness—guiding participants through the creation and refinement of curriculum vitae, biographies, and portfolios specifically tailored for municipal and institutional review.

Erica Chisolm is a fine artist, muralist, art activist and creative Placemaking consultant, based in Birmingham, AL and Atlanta, GA. She has a bachelor's degree in Sociology concentrating in Urban Development and visual arts from Georgia State University. She has been instrumental in activating public spaces in underserved communities to help increase walkability and wellness and decrease blight using tactical urbanism projects and public art across the Southeast United States. She has worked closely with the Historic 4th Ave Business District, and Civil Rights District of Birmingham, AL, where she has contributed to over twenty community engaged public art projects, as well as the Atlanta Regional Commission, the Atlanta Beltline and more. She is currently serving as a Senior Urban Designer for the City of Birmingham Department of Community Development with a focus on Creative Placemaking, Public Art & Community Engagement.