Urban Artist Exchange Outdoor Amphitheater Receives AIA Design Award

Image courtesy of EDiS

WILMINGTON - The Mayor's Office of Cultural Affairs announced today that the Urban Artist Exchange (UAE) Outdoor Amphitheater has been selected as a recipient of the American Institute of Architects (AIA) Delaware Design Awards Program. The program honors the transformative impact of architectural design and celebrates the projects and people that make Delaware a vibrant place to live.

The UAE reimagined long-abandoned Wilmington Police Department horse stables into a multi-disciplinary arts campus. In addition to the amphitheater, the site houses art and teaching studios and a group exhibition space.

"The Tina Betz Urban Artist Exchange demonstrates the power of the arts in bringing people together," said Mayor John Carney. "Thank you to Director Betz and everyone who worked for years to create a creative and educational space for the community."

Led by Wilmington Director of Cultural Affairs Tina Betz, the site formally opened in 2020 with the launch of the Arts Work Summer Youth Apprenticeship Program. The renovation was completed by the Challenge Program apprentices and masters in Wilmington's East Side Historic District.

The amphitheater-designed by Architectural Alliance and constructed by EDiS-opened with its first performance in May 2023. In May 2025, the entire campus was officially renamed The Tina Betz Urban Artist Exchange to honor Betz's visionary leadership.

"Recognizing this project with a design award is a testament to our city's persistence, creativity, and most importantly, our vibrant arts community," said Director Tina Betz. "The UAE was fifteen years in the making and worth every minute of the journey. Thank you to Architectural Alliance, EDiS, and the entire project team for helping bring this vision to life, and to the AIA team for being there every step of the way."

Awards were selected by a five-member jury of architects from AIA Chesapeake Bay, Maryland. In their remarks, the jury noted:

"The plan demonstrates a thoughtful and strategic orientation, effectively responding to the site, function, and surrounding roadway network. While the design introduces a departure from the existing vernacular through its form, it maintains cohesion through a consistent material palette. Notably, the careful attention given to the rear façade is commendable, recognizing its prominence as the most frequently viewed elevation."

The amphitheater and UAE team will be formally recognized by the AIA at an awards ceremony later this month.

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