OUR Story

The idea of Elysian Gardens started almost 10 years ago. Birmingham native and award-winning national artist William Colburn Jr had been traveling the country exhibiting his large-scale whimsical pieces at Art Exhibits from California to New York to Miami and throughout Texas. Colburn’s work can be seen in city parks, corporate buildings, and private residences across the country. In the city of Birmingham his pieces are on permanent display, Barber Motorsports Park, The Bell Center, O’Neil UAB Cancer Center, Gatos & Beans, and many others. His gallery in downtown Fairhope, Alabama was always listed as “One of the must visit places” in Fairhope.

In 2014 William purchased the vacant overgrown lot in Avondale that had once been the home of a burned down church on the edge of Avondale’s burgeoning entertainment district. The dream was to create a multi-use visual & performing arts venue. A place where artists, comedians, musicians, and new culinary ideas can create a market. A story, a place to unite generations & culture, inspire reflection, and transcend differences. Our hope is that this space will create new vital opportunities for ALL artists. Using art as the economic engine we hope to create real and lasting impact connecting neighbors and communities. Improving the well-being and quality of life…We strive to make our city and even better place to live, work, and prosper.

Our venue will have a community stage for local live music, theater, comedy, and special events. Artifice Garden Bar will create one-of-a-kind cocktails and local beers. All in the artistic atmosphere of our giant whimsical sculpture park in the heart of our wonderful city!