Our Mission
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InToto Creative Arts Forum provides opportunities for artistic expression, healing, and connection for people affected by social and economic hardships.
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We partner with community service organizations to serve some of the most vulnerable communities in Birmingham with visual art, creative writing, movement, music, and theater classes. Folks who are affected by adversities including homelessness, incarceration, and mental health challenges are provided space, materials, and guidance to explore creatively. Our adult artists also receive an 80% commission on all sales of their artwork in our annual art shows and fundraisers.
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Our Values
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Community: We believe in the power of the arts in fostering a sense of belonging and connection among participants. Many individuals facing hardships feel isolated, and our programs provide an opportunity to connect with others who share similar experiences. By serving people affected by social and economic hardships, we are making a social impact by improving the overall well-being and resilience of not only individuals, but of the larger Birmingham community.
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Growth: We believe in creativity as a form of emotional and physiological healing and release. Participation in our arts programming brings a sense of personal fulfillment and purpose. Exploration of emotions and ideas through various art forms is an effective way to reduce stress and improve mental health. By engaging with the arts, people can gain a sense of agency and control over their lives. This empowerment can be especially important for people facing social and economic challenges, as it helps boost self-esteem and resilience. We believe in the power of art to inspire people to overcome challenges and find the hope to persevere in difficult times.
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Inclusivity: We believe that everyone should enjoy the privilege of a safe space and materials to explore creatively. We strive to make art making opportunities and resources accessible in the communities that need them the most.
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Cultural Enrichment: Exposure to different cultures and perspectives through the arts can broaden our horizons and increase cultural sensitivity. By exploring new subjects and ideas, we are facilitating a deeper understanding and acceptance of diversity in our community.
Compassion: We believe that people deserve compassion regardless of their financial or social status. By bringing people from different experiences together around the arts, we can foster connections and provide opportunities for knowledge exchange which leads to a more compassionate community.
Advocacy: We believe that art can be a powerful tool for social activism. We use art to advocate for social change and raise awareness around stigmatized issues such as homelessness, incarceration, and mental health. We believe in the arts as a means of fostering a sense of shared humanity and understanding of the struggles and triumphs of folks from various walks of life.