By Carlen Ruth Hultgren
On a beautiful September night in EAV (East Atlanta Village), long lines snaked around the newly renovated church building, for a chance to be one of the first to enter the much anticipated opening of ABV (A Better View) Gallery and Agency, and the exhibition therein. From the Metropolitan Avenue sidewalk, neighbors, art lovers, and the curious, entered a pristine renovation filled with both light and color. This was EAV’s introduction to artist Greg Mike’s stunning new creative space.
Bursting at the seams at the rented space in Studioplex, Mike was eager to find a more suitable location to purchase. After six years, he toured a former church in EAV, and the vision became clear. “I knew it was the perfect space,” recalled Mike, who’s connections to the Village go back more than 15 years when he painted one of his first large-scale murals here.
The inaugural installation, Greg Mike’s own ‘Chapter New’, along with the renovation of the 8500 square foot ABV Gallery, was a monumental task, with one of the biggest challenges balancing the creative process with the logistics of expanding the gallery. “On the creative side, pushing myself to explore new techniques and mediums came with its own set of challenges, like stepping out of my comfort zone and embracing the unknown,” said the artist. Delays extended the project’s completion timeline from months into three years, but the result was well worth the wait.
Entering the expansive gallery, one is met with a burst of color, showcased on pure white walls. The large Over Joy sculpture welcomes each visitor and reflects the overall vibe of the exhibition: fun and curiosity. Roaming around the gallery, one gets the feel of Saturday morning cartoons, comic books, and urban graffiti. Mike’s Larry Loudmouth makes frequent appearances and by the end of the tour, feels like an old friend. The modern interior infused with expansive natural and artificial light, warms the space as guests are immersed in the exhibition, the venue being part of this experience.
Greg Mike, has traveled the globe painting murals, serving as a creative director for clients and brands, and showcasing his artwork in galleries and museums nationwide. Known for his forward-thinking approach, his reputation is strong within the Atlanta arts community. “It’s been a decade since my last solo show in Atlanta,” says Mike, “making this exhibition incredibly special to me. Without a doubt, this is the most significant moment in my professional career. The fusion of all-new work, combined with the four-year journey of designing and building this new space, is going to create something truly magical. I’m always driven to create art that inspires and brings joy, and I’m excited to share that energy with the opening of this new exhibition and venue.”
Rotating public artwork will be showcased on the featured walls throughout the property, creating a dynamic canvas that evolves year-round. With a full bar area, the space is also available for event rental, tying it even closer to community. The Village is excited about its new creative neighbor and has extended a warm East Atlanta welcome to ABV and its artists to the community.
Exhibition details: ‘Chapter New,’ ABV Gallery, 1206 Metropolitan Avenue, running through October 19. Hours: Tuesday-Wednesday 10:00am-5:00pm, Friday 10:00am-5:00pm, Saturday 10:00am-7:00pm; closed Sunday, Monday, and Thursday.
