Join us as we honor the life and legacy of Christian Walker (1953–2003), a groundbreaking photographer, critic, and curator whose work boldly explored the intersections of queer identity, race, intimacy, and activism. This special event invites the Atlanta arts community to reflect on Walker’s profound impact through personal remembrance and artistic engagement.
Atlanta Contemporary Executive Director Floyd Hall will offer opening remarks, followed by a guided tour of the exhibition Christian Walker: The Profane and the Poignant. This exhibition is the most comprehensive survey of Walker’s career to date, showcasing his evolution from documentary portraiture to innovative, experimental photographic practices incorporating mixed media and archival imagery.
Active in both Boston and Atlanta, Walker’s work confronted subjects such as interracial desire, queer public sexuality, HIV/AIDS, and the politics of visibility and representation. His artistic and curatorial contributions—often raw, intimate, and politically charged—challenged societal norms and left a lasting imprint on contemporary art and photography.
Curated by Jackson Davidow and Noam Parness, and originally organized by the Leslie-Lohman Museum of Art, this exhibition also foregrounds the challenges of preserving Walker’s legacy—highlighting lost archives, oral histories, and the ephemeral nature of queer memory.
We welcome all who knew Christian Walker or who are newly discovering his work to join us in this space of reflection, remembrance, and celebration.
Join us for a family-friendly art workshop as part of the Contemporary Kids program, where kids of all ages can explore their creativity and engage with the themes of contemporary art!
During this workshop, artist Makiko Maekawa will guide young artists in creating their own contemporary art projects. Using a variety of materials like paint, paper, and objects, participants will explore how to express themselves through art.
Open Studios is your chance to meet the artists in our Studio Artist Program and experience their work up close. Explore the studios, connect with creatives, and maybe take home a new favorite piece.
All are welcome—artists, students, professionals, and art lovers alike.
Ticket sales support subsidized studio spaces, and sponsorships help provide honoraria for exhibiting artists across our campus.
