We preserve what we value.
We preserve what we value. But what happens when preservation itself is endangered?
The Sacred Ordinary is a public art installation in Birmingham’s Civil Rights District that uses everyday civic objects to illuminate places of memory.
Through a self-guided experience at night, it invites visitors to connect with history beyond signage and consider what it means to keep these stories alive.
November 2–December 13, 2026
Open nightly 5–8pm
Free for all
To begin, text HERE to 205-784-2321
In Conversation
Beyond Signage: The Future of Historic Interpretation in Birmingham’s Civil Rights District
Monday, November 9 · 5:30 pm
16th Street Education & Visitors Center
Free and open to the public
Produced by 1504
Presented by The Ministry of Culture
In partnership with National Parks Conservation Association
Created by Tyler Jones
Introduction by André Holland
Executive production by Mark Slagle
Sound design by Jake Carnley
Graphic Design by Anna Bowen
Voice-over recording by Simon Rentner
Audio mixing by Lane McGiboney
Text platform development by Ritanshu Kumar
Fabrication by Page Burch
Metalwork by Stephen Charles
Lighting by Isaac Winburne
Archival photographs
AFP via Getty Images
Birmingham, Ala. Public Library Archives
Project Advisors
Joshua Jenkins, National Parks Conservation Association
Jade Powers, Birmingham Museum of Art
Viola Ratcliffe, Create Birmingham
Elijah Gaddis, Auburn University
Special Thanks
Imani Perry, Lisa McNair, Logan Barrett, Gina Mallisham, Christina Argo, Paula Stanton, Traci Jones, Kenneth Cunningham, Matt Arnett, Chandler Jones, Ted Debro, Deborah Walker, Ed Fields, Amy Pleasant, Chip Brantley, Salaam Green, Paulette Roby, Melissa Yes, Mollie Schaefer-Thompson, William Thornton, Ann Jimerson, Connor Marrullo, Barry McNealy, Margaret Norman, Martha Bouyer, Dylane Hurd, Terrence Brown, Rev. Marian Royston, Rev. Arthur Price, Jr., Alicia’s Coffee, Joe Minter
For inquiries, contact info@ministryofculture.org