Painter and muralist Artsy Elaine and multimedia artist Sway Jones share a creative connection built on color, collaboration, and a belief that art should lift people up. That shared philosophy is at the center of their new Atlantic Station residency, Art Station ATL, opening Oct. 25 as part of the property’s 20th-anniversary celebration.
The 1,541-square-foot studio and gallery on Atlantic Drive is designed as both a workspace and a public venue. “We’re designing Art Station ATL to feel like both a working studio and an immersive gallery,” the pair said. “It’s a space where creativity is always in motion—a true hub for art, community and inspiration.”
“We need art now more than ever,”
Artist Elaine “Artsy Elaine” Stephenson
Collaboration in color
Each artist brings an established practice to the residency. Elaine’s bright, floral murals already appear across Atlantic Station—including eight flower carts, two large-scale wall murals, and the colorful parking-garage entrance off State Street. Sway’s pop-inspired portraits and design work include murals at Mercedes-Benz Stadium and partnerships with the Atlanta Falcons and Atlanta United FC. Her paint line, Sway Acrylics, is carried at the High Museum of Art and Brown Toy Box and is coming to Walmart.
“One thing we have in common is a shared mission of spreading positivity through art,” Elaine said. “Although our styles and executions are different, they complement each other beautifully in those differences.”
“We both share a love for color and for bringing people together through creativity,” Sway added. “We believe our contrasting styles will connect with people from all walks of life, no matter their artistic preferences—all in the name of art.”
Art where people are
Atlantic Station’s leadership sees the residency as part of its long-term commitment to integrating art into daily experience. “Art Station ATL isn’t just a place to view art—it’s a place to feel it,” said Giovanni Silva, general property manager at Atlantic Station.
During the residency, Elaine and Jones will add new public artworks across the property. “We need art now more than ever,” Elaine said. “By adding color around the property, we hope to make each visit even more joyful and memorable. People love art, but it’s not always easily accessible. Our goal is to create multiple opportunities for people to engage—with us, with color, and with creativity itself.”
Opening the doors
Art Station ATL will also serve as an interactive studio. “We really want visitors to feel like they’re part of the process,” the artists said. “They’ll be able to see works in progress, ask questions, and even take part in workshops or community paint days. We’re opening the doors to what it truly looks like to be an artist—not just the finished product, but the energy, the learning, and the collaboration that happens behind the scenes.”
The launch coincides with Atlantic Station’s 20th-anniversary celebration, which marks two decades since the development transformed a former steel mill into a mixed-use destination. “It signals a fresh energy for Atlantic Station, a reminder that even after 20 years, it’s still evolving right alongside the city,” the artists said. “Art plays such a big role in Atlanta’s culture, and in addition to all the other entertainment people come here for, our residency adds another layer of creativity and connection.”
Art Station ATL opens Saturday, Oct. 25, noon–4 p.m., at 1380 Atlantic Drive, Suite 14100. Follow @artsy_elaine and @_swayart for updates.