About the Exhibit
A landmark exhibit.
A living tribute to Birmingham's metal heritage.
Symphony of Elements is a free, public art and science exhibit held at Sloss Furnaces National Historic Landmark in Birmingham, Alabama — one of the most historically significant industrial sites in the United States.
On display: May 23 – August 31, 2026 | Admission is always free.
The exhibit features large-scale, high-definition photographic prints that expose the microscopic structures of metals — steel, cast iron, and alloys produced across the United States. Each image is a window into the invisible architecture that gives metals their strength, beauty, and purpose.
Beyond the science, this is a celebration of place. The metals curated in this exhibit reflect the diversity of American metalworking, with special recognition of Birmingham's own industrial legacy — a city that helped build a nation, one alloy at a time.
Meet the Founder
Chairman + Director, Symphony of Elements Foundation
Dr. Raymond Thompson, PhD, PE
Dr. Raymond Thompson has spent more than six decades at the intersection of metallurgy, education, and community. Symphony of Elements is the culmination of all three.
A celebrated Engineering Professor at the University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB), Dr. Thompson shaped generations of engineers through his courses in metallurgy, ceramics, and materials science. His influence extended far beyond the classroom: he served on the UAB Long-Term Planning Committee, the School of Engineering Advisory Council, and as president of the UAB National Alumni Society, earning the UAB Volunteer of the Year Award in recognition of his lifelong commitment to education.
After more than 60 years as a Birmingham resident, researcher, and teacher, Dr. Thompson created Symphony of Elements to share what he has always known: that metals are not just functional — they are beautiful, complex, and endlessly fascinating.
This exhibit is his gift to the city that shaped him.
Our Mission
Symphony of Elements exists to make science visible, accessible, and inspiring.
We believe that when people see the hidden beauty of the materials around them — really see it — something changes. Curiosity sparks. Questions form. Careers begin.
Our goal is simple: use art to open the door to science, and in doing so, honor the metals industry that built Birmingham and continues to power the modern world.
Symphony of Elements is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. All donations are tax-deductible and directly support our mission of science education and community engagement.
Our Leadership
Symphony of Elements is guided by a dedicated board of community leaders, scientists, and advocates committed to advancing science education in Birmingham and beyond.
Board of Directors + Chairpersons
Dr. Doug Rigney | Board Member + PR Chairperson
Allen Bolton | Finance Chairperson
Martin "Marty" Connors | Governmental Affairs Chairperson
John Cassimus | Board Member + Fundraising Chairperson
Dr. Brian Pillay | Composite Materials Chairperson
We're actively seeking volunteers for additional Chair positions. If you're passionate about science, education, or community building, we'd love to connect.
