Atlanta Contemporary | Atlanta

Atlanta Contemporary – A Detailed Overview

1. Background and Mission

Atlanta Contemporary is one of the leading contemporary art institutions in the southeastern United States. Established in 1973 by a group of independent artists under the name Nexus, it began as a grassroots cooperative intended to support the artistic community and create space for experimental and contemporary practices. Over the decades, it evolved significantly-rebranding as Atlanta Contemporary Art Center and later simplifying its name to Atlanta Contemporary-while staying committed to its original mission.

As a non-collecting, nonprofit institution, Atlanta Contemporary focuses on commissioning and exhibiting new works by living artists, particularly those whose practices are underrepresented in the region. It seeks to foster dialogue, promote innovation, and support artists at various stages of their careers, with a special emphasis on contemporary issues and experimental approaches.

2. Facilities and Location

Atlanta Contemporary is located at 535 Means Street NW in West Midtown, a historically industrial district that has become a hub for creativity and innovation. The center occupies a large 35,000-square-foot former warehouse, which has been adapted into a versatile art venue.

The space includes:

Multiple flexible exhibition galleries, allowing for frequent rotation of installations.

Studio Artist spaces where a curated group of emerging and mid-career artists work on-site.

A courtyard and outdoor event area used for performances and community gatherings.

Administrative offices and a retail space selling artist-made and local merchandise.

ADA-compliant entrances and facilities, ensuring accessibility for all.

3. Exhibitions

Atlanta Contemporary produces between 15 and 20 exhibitions annually. It emphasizes solo exhibitions and commissions rather than permanent collections, providing artists with the opportunity to create site-specific works or debut new projects. These exhibitions span a wide range of media-including painting, sculpture, installation, video, and performance-and often challenge traditional formats or address socially relevant themes.

Past exhibitions have featured local Georgia-based artists, as well as nationally and internationally recognized figures. The programming is carefully curated to strike a balance between emerging voices and more established artists, and between regional relevance and global resonance.

Rotations typically occur quarterly, offering a fresh experience throughout the year and encouraging repeat visits.

4. Studio Artist Program

One of Atlanta Contemporary’s signature initiatives is its Studio Artist Program, which offers highly subsidized studio space to working artists. Artists are selected through an application and juried process, and they are given 12-month residencies with opportunities for professional development, networking, and participation in exhibitions and open studio events.

This program not only supports the artistic ecosystem in Atlanta but also enriches the public's experience by fostering direct engagement with artists.

5. Public Programs and Education

Atlanta Contemporary is deeply committed to public engagement through a robust calendar of educational and community-oriented programming, including:

Contemporary Cocktails: A monthly evening social featuring live music or DJ sets, signature drinks, and open galleries. It serves as a gathering point for art lovers and newcomers alike.

Contemporary Talks: Artist talks, panel discussions, and lectures that accompany current exhibitions, providing deeper insight into the creative process and themes explored.

Contemporary Kids: Free family-oriented events that include hands-on art-making activities for children, often led by exhibiting artists or educators.

Workshops and Artist-Led Activities: These may focus on a wide variety of subjects, including printmaking, performance art, zine-making, and socially engaged practices.

Film Screenings and Performance Art: Occasionally hosted in the courtyard or galleries, these programs expand the center’s reach beyond visual art.

All of these events are designed to be inclusive, with many offered at no cost to participants.

6. Accessibility and Visitor Information

Admission: Free, every day. Donations are encouraged but not required.

Hours of Operation:

Sunday: 11:00 AM – 6:00 PM

Monday–Wednesday: Closed

Thursday–Friday: 11:00 AM – 8:00 PM

Saturday: 11:00 AM – 6:00 PM

Parking: Free on-site parking is available in the Carriage Works lot adjacent to the building.

Public Transport: MARTA access is available nearby, and the location is also served by the Georgia Tech Trolley and various bus routes.

Online Registration: Visitors are encouraged to register online in advance, although walk-ins are welcome.

Accessibility: Fully ADA-compliant with wheelchair-accessible entrances, restrooms, and exhibition areas.

7. Community Role and Cultural Significance

Atlanta Contemporary plays an essential role in Atlanta’s broader cultural landscape. It acts as a bridge between artists and audiences and contributes to the ongoing development of contemporary art in the region. Its philosophy is grounded in equity, inclusivity, and experimentation, offering space not only for exhibitions but also for dialogue, learning, and community building.

The institution collaborates with other local and national arts organizations, contributing to collective efforts like public art initiatives, art fairs, and multi-venue exhibitions.

8. Atmosphere and Visitor Experience

Atlanta Contemporary is known for its laid-back, welcoming environment. Unlike traditional museums, it offers a more intimate and immersive setting where visitors can take their time to engage with artworks without feeling rushed. The staff is knowledgeable and available to answer questions, and many events include opportunities to meet and converse with the exhibiting artists.

Its focus on contemporary, experimental, and thought-provoking art means that visitors can expect to see works that are timely, reflective, and sometimes challenging-but always stimulating.

Atlanta Contemporary stands out as an essential destination for art enthusiasts, creatives, and anyone interested in exploring the cutting edge of cultural expression in the Southeast. Through its exhibitions, programs, and artist support initiatives, it serves as a vibrant hub for dialogue, creativity, and innovation.