Willie Williams, Jr. next to his piece, “BLK2THEFUTURE.” Photo by Nathan Watson for BhamNow.

In an old warehouse in North Birmingham, local artist Willie Williams, Jr. saw the potential for a thriving art studio. As a result, Studio 2500 is now a venue where artists of all backgrounds can exhibit their work. Learn more about the vision.

An artist from a young age

Isn’t this piece so beautiful? You can buy it at Studio 2500! Photo by Nathan Watson for BhamNow.

Since the age of 4, Willie Williams, Jr. has been creating art. During his childhood, he experimented with mediums such as paint and watercolors. Willie continued his love of art at the Alabama School of Fine Arts and Birmingham-Southern College. During high school, he began to create sculptures out of metal. Since then, metalwork has become his favorite form of art.

Willie’s piece, titled “Fortitude” in Studio 2500. Photo by Nathan Watson for BhamNow.

“The predominant message in my art is basically Black pride, Black identity, and being proud of your heritage. Given our extensive history with segregation and discrimination, being made to feel inferior and not proud of our heritage, my art combats those stereotypes.” Willie Williams, Jr.

From vision to reality

Studio 2500 in North Birmingham. Photo via their website.

In late 2015, Willie landed on the idea of Studio 2500 while considering how he wanted to make an impact with his art. Since Willie and his father owned an old car garage in North Birmingham, he knew it was the perfect spot for an art studio. After a year of preparation, Willie opened Studio 2500 for the first exhibition on July 29th, 2016.

“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.

Involved in the community

An art wall at Studio 2500. Photo by Nathan Watson for BhamNow.

In addition to being the center for young, diverse artists in Birmingham, Studio 2500 has been the center for social engagement as well. Studio 2500 fosters dialogues for people of different generations and ethnic backgrounds to come in and talk about societal issues.

In the community of North Birmingham, Studio 2500 strives to be the change it wants to see. Through the dialogues and providing a space for emerging artists, Studio 2500 has been able to develop a strong community impact.

“Our mission as a fine art gallery and studio is to promote visual art within a diverse and inclusive culture of creatives to stimulate learning and freedom of expression.” Studio 2500 mission statement

When can I visit?

Some of the art in Studio 2500. Photo by Nathan Watson for BhamNow.

When : Open Friday thru Sunday, from 2PM to 5PM.

: Open Friday thru Sunday, from 2PM to 5PM. Where: 2500 26th Ave. North, Birmingham, Alabama 35234

The current series on display is “New Works Exhibit #3”, a collection of recent 2D and 3D works of art from each artist’s collection.

Upcoming events

Bridge the Gap Oct. 13th, 3PM-5PM A dialogue series featuring local activist G.L. Matthews discussing his upcoming book, “From the Ghettos to the Promised Land“

Pop up & Cookout Oct. 19th, 6PM-9PM Artists from around Birmingham can bring a work of their art to display. In addition to the art, there will be delicious food to enjoy! Free admission



Planning to see the incredible art at Studio 2500? Make sure to share your experience by tagging @BhamNow !

Nathan Watson Tennessee native who fell in love with Birmingham during college. Graduated from Birmingham-Southern College in 2019. Passionate about Birmingham and its continued growth.