Atlanta Contemporary

Atlanta Contemporary’s mission to engage the public in the creation, presentation, and advancement of contemporary art. 

Each year, Atlanta Contemporary presents dozens of artists and creatives that are shifting the culture of this city and the world. If you’ve ever wanted to know how you can directly support the people making it happen, today is the perfect day to support Atlanta Contemporary and double your impact.

Atlanta Contemporary is a free admission institution that relies on public support to keep its doors open and pay artist and curator fees, provide affordable studio space, and present free programming. This year, we are especially proud of the upgrades we made to our artist studios and the expanded Contemporary Kids programming.

Since 2014, the Contemporary Kids program at Atlanta Contemporary has held monthly hands-on art projects for children ages 3-12, all at zero cost to the attending families. This past October, Atlanta Contemporary also presented its first community exhibition featuring Contemporary participants, creating the opportunity for children to see their artwork presented publicly in our gallery.

Help keep these efforts sustainable by giving today. Support Atlanta Contemporary for GA Gives Day, and also through the end of the year, as every dollar we receive will be matched 1-to-1 up to $15,000, thanks to a generous anonymous donor. Click the Donate button to make a gift to this fund or text FREEADMISSION TO 44-321.

Atlanta Contemporary Through the Years

Atlanta Contemporary, originally under the name Nexus, began in 1973 when a group of artists and art enthusiasts in Atlanta, recognized the need for a space dedicated to contemporary art exhibitions and programming. Their vision led to the establishment of Nexus, a non-profit artist cooperative, in 1976. 

Initially, Nexus operated as an artist-run space, providing a platform for emerging and established artists to exhibit their work. Over time, Nexus gained recognition and support within the local art community. In 1989, Nexus moved to the Westside in Atlanta, occupying a former industrial building that was renovated to suit the needs of a contemporary art institution, thereby further expanding its focus to include a residency program and educational initiatives. 

In 2000, Nexus underwent a significant transformation and rebranded itself as the Atlanta Contemporary Art Center (ACAC). This rebranding was part of an effort to position the institution as a leading contemporary art space in the Southeast. Under its new identity, ACAC continued its commitment to showcasing contemporary art through a diverse range of exhibitions, performances, and public programs supporting both local, national, and international artists, fostering dialogues and collaborations between different artistic communities. 

Throughout its history, ACAC has played a vital role in promoting contemporary art in Atlanta and the broader region. It has been a platform for experimentation, innovation, and critical discourse, providing artists and audiences with opportunities to engage with cutting-edge art practices. AC has contributed to the cultural landscape of the city by organizing events and initiatives that encourage public participation and dialogue around contemporary art.

Today, Atlanta Contemporary remains an important museum in Atlanta and nationally. We continue to evolve, adapt, and respond to the changing dynamics of contemporary art, offering a platform for artists to explore new ideas and engage with audiences in meaningful ways.

It is through this history and bright future that we Change The Way We All See Art.