BARE HANDS ANNOUNCES PHASE 1 CAPITAL CAMPAIGN MOMENTUM FOR FUTURE COMMUNITY ARTS CENTER
Birmingham, AL — Bare Hands, Inc. is proud to share a major milestone in its capital campaign to bring Bare Hands Community Arts Center (BHCAC) to life in Woodlawn. As the organization moves closer to launching Phase 1 renovations, leadership is celebrating the growing momentum of community, public, and private support.
Completion of Phase 1 will allow BHCAC to open and be operational. This phase of the renovation will activate approximately 60% of the building, creating essential spaces including a main hall, classroom, office, restrooms, and kitchen, laying the foundation for year-round arts education, arts programs, and community engagement in East Birmingham.
Bare Hands is working in partnership with CCR Architecture & Interiors and Dawson Building Company to guide the design and construction of Phase 1 renovations.
“This moment is about more than a building; it’s about creating a permanent home for creativity, connection, and community-led expression,” said Aimee Castro, Bare Hands Executive Director. “We’re incredibly grateful for the partners and supporters who are helping us move from vision to reality.”
A significant highlight of this phase is the anticipated $250,000 state allocation secured through State Representative Neil Rafferty (House District 54), underscoring strong public investment in the arts and in the Woodlawn community. Bare Hands is currently in conversation with Rep. Rafferty’s office to coordinate a formal announcement and potential check presentation in the coming months.
“This level of support signals a shared belief in what this space can become for Birmingham,” said Jason Avery, Bare Hands Board Vice President. “Bare Hands Community Arts Center will serve as a hub for artists, families, and neighbors to gather, learn, and create together.”
Bare Hands is building strong momentum toward Phase 1 and continues to grow support for the project’s next stages. The organization is deeply grateful to its many supporters, including individual donors, foundations, and local partners. With fundraising underway and key commitments in place, Bare Hands plans to begin Phase 1 renovations this fall to open the first phase of the center by year’s end.
Bare Hands plans to share updates across digital platforms and with media partners as momentum continues to build.
ABOUT BARE HANDS, INC.
Bare Hands, Inc. collaborates with individuals and local communities to create immersive arts experiences and arts education programs. Through festivals, workshops, and community-driven initiatives, Bare Hands celebrates culture, fosters connection, and builds lasting impact through creative expression.