Angel’s Envy Bourbon Club

A Floating Cardinal for University of Louisville Angel’s Envy Bourbon Club

The University of Louisville had two asks. The first: to create a statement piece for the Schnellenberger Football Complex entrance. And the second: redesign the stadium’s Angels’ Envy Bourbon Club to provide a premium experience for guests.

Xibitz crafted the club’s new fantastic centerpiece: a gigantic metal cardinal that hangs elegantly from the ceiling. The welded-aluminum sculpture hammers home the bond between the Club and the Louisville Cardinals.

Xibitz also constructed the 8-foot long metal and copper bands floating around the cardinal, an homage to the barrel staves used to store whiskey and bourbon.

Meet Brad Pyle, Welder & Fabricator

What started as a hobby of fixing cars turned into a thriving career for Welder/Fabricator Brad Pyle. Taught by his older brother, Brad was introduced to metal fabrication and welding when he’d help his older brother work on sports cars. His passion for a career in the trades guided him toward a 2-year program at Ivy Tech Community College in Lawrenceburg, IN.

“Xibitz was fortunate to welcome Brad to our team in 2022 where his expertise and craftsmanship played a key role in elevating the execution of our metals department,” said Ben Metzger, Principal at Xibitz. “Since then, he’s been able to lead some of our most recognizable metal fabrication projects. He’s really a team player when it comes to production and we’re lucky to have him at Xibitz.”

One of Brad’s favorite projects is the Louisville Cardinal sculpture that hangs from the ceiling in the Angels MV Bourbon Club. The 25’ long, welded aluminum figure has an origami look and is surrounded by 8’ chunks of wood with metal and copper cladding, portraying barrel staves.

When he’s not working you can find Brad on the golf course, fishing, or cheering on Notre Dame.