THE POWER OF
COMMUNITY PLACEMAKING
Transforming Spaces , Strengthening Connections
Placemaking is more than just urban planning — it ’ s a collaborative effort to transform public spaces into vibrant , inclusive and functional environments that truly reflect the identity and needs of a community . Rather than focusing solely on design , placemaking prioritizes the experiences and connections that a space creates , ensuring it serves the people who use it every day . We asked a few local art and community leaders to share their views on community placemaking and what steps they are taking to make a difference and better shape the local art community .
Why Placemaking Matters
Community placemaking is a collaborative process that transforms public spaces into vibrant , inclusive areas that reflect a community ’ s identity , culture and aspirations . Kalonji Gilchrist , Founder and Executive Director of 21 Dreams Art & Culture highlights its importance in promoting community engagement , influencing future development and amplifying a community ’ s identity through remembrance work . Lois Cortell , Senior Development Manager for Montgomery ’ s Economic and Community Development Team , stated that placemaking is about “ creating a place , not a design .” She emphasizes the need to build destinations that enhance quality of life , attract visitors and support local businesses .
Kevin King , Founder and Executive Director of the King ’ s Canvas Gallery and Studio , further stresses the value of inclusive spaces , emphasizing that placemaking should reflect the community ’ s priorities rather than external aesthetics .
“ The goal is to build places that meet the community ’ s needs and create a sense of ownership and belonging ,” King says . By prioritizing community voices and inclusivity , placemaking builds stronger connections , brings people together and ensures that all individuals feel welcomed . More than just shaping physical spaces , it influences how people experience and interact with their environment , making communities more engaged , connected and resilient .
FEATURED ARTIST
MILTON MADISON
Milton Madison was born and raised in Birmingham , Alabama . His works have been featured at the National Center for the Study of Civil Rights and African-American Culture , the Birmingham Public Library and the Rosa Parks Museum , and more recently , 21 Dreams Arts and Culture , the King ’ s Canvas Gallery , Valiant Gallery and MAP360 Gallery .
NOTABLE WORKS : With assistance from local artist Sunny Paulk , Milton designed and painted his first mural at That ’ s My Child . Since then , he has assisted in multiple local projects , including the Black Lives Matters mural at Montgomery ’ s Historic Dexter Ave fountain and the “ Are You Listening ” mural featured in the Washington Post . He has recently completed inspiring murals at Dozier and Highland Gardens elementary schools .
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