About|Atlanta Contemporary

A community that offers ever-expanding support for the creation and appreciation of contemporary art.

Founded in 1973 as Nexus, a grassroots artists’ cooperative, Atlanta Contemporary has since become one of the southeast’s leading contemporary art centers. We play a vital role in Atlanta’s cultural landscape by presenting over 100 consequential artists from the local, national, and international art scenes through our various exhibition and project spaces each year. We are one of the few local art organizations that commission new works, paying particular attention to artists of note who have not had a significant exhibition in the Southeast. We organize over 100 diverse educational programs annually including Contemporary Kids, Contemporary Cocktails, Contemporary Talks, Movement Love and more! Atlanta Contemporary provides on-site subsidized studio space to working artists through the Studio Artist Program, removing cost as a barrier to the creative process.

Dear Members and Friends,

I am so thankful to all of you who attended Atlanta Contemporary’s record-breaking exhibition openings; unique arts experiences such as Contemporary Kids and Movement Love; engaging lectures and educational programs in partnership with C4, ColorATL, Discrit and others; or simply walked the galleries to engage with the dynamic exhibitions that advance contemporary art.

It is because of you – our ever-increasing family of diverse audiences and attendees – that we had such an incredible year. Our attendance has increased over 45% and our exhibitions and programs have supported over 150 artists.

Since our founding in 1973, we have relied on our family of individuals to steward, champion, and support us. It is through you that we uphold our intent to operate with free admission, every day. Our motto at Atlanta Contemporary is "Changing the Way We All See Art" – and while this new fiscal year sees the departure of our curator, we are excited about our future. In the coming weeks, we will roll out what these changes will be and what it all means for Atlanta Contemporary.

To that end, please don’t be shy if we contact you; I always welcome your feedback. Stop by Atlanta Contemporary where there’s free parking, free coffee, and free art. I look forward to listening to you, learning from you, and working with you towards our goal of Changing the Way We All See Art.

Sincerely,Veronica Kessenich

Executive Director

Our Studio Artist Program supports local working artists by providing subsidized studio space and by fostering a collaborative environment supportive of the creative process.

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Get Involved

The Intern and Volunteer Program nurtures your professional career through hands-on experiences in nonprofit management and providing opportunities to broaden your network. A unique experience to learn, create, and innovate in a fast-paced work environment. Join our growing team of passionate, creative, and innovative change-makers today!

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Photo by Diamond Eyes, 2015

Book Venue

Atlanta Contemporary is a mission-driven contemporary art center well-suited to host a wide range of events including: wedding ceremonies and receptions, private parties, corporate meetings, and film shoots.

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