Urban Artist Exchange Wins Prestigious Design Award: A Testament to Community and Creativity in Wilmington
WILMINGTON – In a significant milestone for the artistic community and urban landscape of Wilmington, the Urban Artist Exchange (UAE) Outdoor Amphitheater has been chosen as a recipient of the esteemed American Institute of Architects (AIA) Delaware Design Awards Program. Unveiled with its inaugural performance in May 2023, the amphitheater stands as a testament to innovative design and community revitalization, conceived by Architectural Alliance and constructed with precision by EDiS.
The UAE is not merely an amphitheater; it represents a reimagination of a long-neglected space previously occupied by the Wilmington Police Department’s horse stables. Through thoughtful restoration and modern adaptation, this site has evolved into a multi-disciplinary arts campus that includes art studios, teaching spaces, and an exhibition area, fostering creativity and collaboration among local artists.
“I believe that the Tina Betz Urban Artist Exchange embodies the transformative power of the arts in uniting communities. It serves as an essential platform for creative expression, educational programming, and cultural celebration,” remarked Wilmington Mayor John Carney, expressing gratitude towards Director Tina Betz and everyone who contributed over the years to realize this ambitious project.
The formal launch of the Urban Artist Exchange coincided with the Arts Work Summer Youth Apprenticeship Program, which saw local youth engaged in hands-on artistic training. This initiative underscores the project’s commitment to community involvement, with renovations carried out by apprentices of the Challenge Program in Wilmington’s East Side Historic District. This not only provided invaluable experiences to the youth involved but also enhanced their skills and connection to their community through art.
In a monumental decision, the entire campus was officially renamed The Tina Betz Urban Artist Exchange in May 2025, honoring the visionary leadership of Tina Betz, whose unwavering dedication to the arts has fundamentally shaped Wilmington’s cultural landscape. “To have this project recognized with a design award underscores our city’s creative spirit and commitment to the arts,” Betz stated. “The UAE’s journey spanned fifteen years, filled with challenges and rewards. I extend my deepest gratitude to Architectural Alliance, EDiS, and the entire project team for their collaborative efforts in bringing this vision to fruition, and to the AIA for their support throughout the process.”
The AIA Awards Program serves not only to recognize architectural excellence but also to celebrate projects and individuals who contribute to making Delaware a dynamic place to live and work. The five-member jury comprised of distinguished architects from AIA Chesapeake Bay in Maryland noted the thoughtfulness of the design. They acknowledged the amphitheater’s strategic orientation, which adeptly responds to both site-specific needs and the functional requirements of the space, integrating seamlessly with the surrounding roadway network. Moreover, the jury commended the stylish coherence achieved through a consistent material palette, while also appreciating the attention given to the rear façade, which serves as the prominent elevation most visible to passersby.
In conjunction with the award, the amphitheater and its team will be officially honored at an awards ceremony organized by AIA later this month, marking yet another highlight in the journey of the Urban Artist Exchange.
Overall, the UAE stands as a model of how cultural investments can revitalize urban spaces, enhance community engagement, and stimulate local economies. It serves as a beacon for aspiring artists and a gathering place for community members who seek inspiration through the arts. The transformation of this historic location into a thriving arts campus is a microcosm of Wilmington’s potential to breathe new life into forgotten places, fostering a vibrant cultural ecosystem.
As Wilmington continues to navigate the complexities of urban development and community integration, projects like the Urban Artist Exchange remind us of the profound impact that creativity can have on society. The space encourages both reflection and interaction, enriching the cultural tapestry of the region and ensuring that the arts remain a vital component of community life.
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