Birmingham artist Willie Williams, Jr. chosen to display sculpture in Chicago

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better render scaled Birmingham artist Willie Williams, Jr. chosen to display sculpture in Chicago
Willie Williams, Jr. outside of Studio 2500. Photo via Nathan Watson for Bham Now

Local artist Willie Williams Jr. recently took a trip up to Chicago to install his sculpture, “Trinity,” in West Pullman Park. But how did an artist from Alabama grab the attention of a Chicago art group? Keep reading to find out.

Studio 2500

Willie William's, Jr. art at Studio 2500
A sculpture at Studio 2500. Photo via Nathan Watson for Bham Now

Since 2015, Willie has worked out of his own art studio. Originally an old warehouse in North Birmingham, Willie and his father transformed the building into a thriving venue, Studio 2500.

In addition to art by Willie and his father, Studio 2500 also displays art from emerging local artist.

“Emerging artists do great work, but don’t have a place to show it off. So I’ve made this place not just for myself but for colleagues and my own peers to showcase their talents.”

Willie Williams, Jr.

Making it to the Big City

Willie William's, Jr. art in Chicago
Willie’s sculpture, “Trinity”, on display in Chicago’s West Pullman Park. Photo courtesy of Willie Williams, Jr.

Although Willie has experimented with various mediums of art since the age of 4, he first began to work with metal in high school. Since then, metalwork has become his favorite form of art.

Willie’s outdoor sculpture, “Trinity,” recently caught the eye of Chicago Sculpture International, who arranged to put one of his sculptures on display in Chicago. After speaking with the team, Willie and his father drove up to Chicago in order to set up the sculpture.

Willie William's, Jr. art at Studio 2500
Four paintings on display at Studio 2500. Photo via Nathan Watson for Bham Now

This isn’t the first time that Willie’s art has made it big. In addition to his Chicago sculpture, Willie has outdoor sculptures in Decatur, GA. He also has 2-dimensional art exhibits in other parts of the country including New York, Houston, and Michigan.

Learn More About Studio 2500

Willie William's, Jr. art at Studio 2500
“1000 Lies”, an art installation collaboration by Willie and his father that depicts the story of Emmett Till. Photo via Nathan Watson for Bham Now

If you want to see Willie’s art in person, you picked a great time to visit Studio 2500.

The next exhibit at Studio 2500, Echoes of Yesterday, celebrates Black History Month and runs from Feb 7 to Feb 29. Echoes of Yesterday will kick off with an opening reception on February 7 from 7PM to 9PM. There will be food, drinks, and an open mic for any performers.

Here Are the Details

“As a motivation to people out there, your gift is going to make room for you. Whatever gift, dream or talent you have, go for it. 2020 is definitely the year for perfect vision, so set a vision and go for it. The universe is on your side.”

Willie Williams, Jr.

Next time you check out Studio 2500, make sure to tag @bhamnow and share your experience!

Nathan Watson
Nathan Watson

Senior Content Producer + Photographer

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