There are so many ways to support Black artists, and elevate Black voices in art loving Atlanta.
From exhibitions you don’t want to miss, to the murals that paint the town in a vibrant array of colors. It can be overwhelming for art lovers in Atlanta, as there’s so much to see and do. This Black History Month, the city pays tribute to the Black communities who’ve called Atlanta home, and the achievements both the city and the country have made in the civil rights movement.
There’s renowned Black artists on display in galleries, street art dedicated to significant Black voices, and a lot to learn about. Luckily there’s an incredible infrastructure for an education in Atlanta’s rich Black History, and we’re going to help by providing you with some art-focused things to do in Atlanta this BHM.
1. ZuCot Gallery
Home to the largest inventory of African American art in the Southeast, you have to stop off at ZuCot this Black History Month. Their inspiring collection of fine art will transport you to places, stories and people that elevate Black perspectives that need to be heard. The gallery’s mission is to promote original works of art by living African American artists, and provide both novice and seasoned collectors with meaningful and unique services that enhance the art collecting experience.
2. High Museum
High Museum is the leading art museum in Atlanta. Continuously bringing beautifully curated and topical exhibitions to the city, Black History Month promises exactly that. The architecturally striking museum will also be providing us with Masterworks & Mindfulness. Each week focuses on a single work of art, prompting self-reflection and discussion to build connection to yourself, the artwork, and each other. Here are some of the exhibitions on offer at High Museum:
- Dawoud Bey: An American Project – Since the beginning of his career in the 1970s, Dawoud Bey (American, born 1953) has used his camera to create poignant meditations on visibility, race, place, and American history.
- David Driskell: Icons of Nature and History – David Driskell (1931–2020) was one of the most revered American artists of his generation, long recognized for his vibrant and versatile painting and printmaking practices that combined keen observations of the American landscape, with the imagery and aesthetic innovations of the African diaspora.
3. National Center for Civil and Human Rights
The center always has a display of the achievements made by Atlanta and its people. From artifacts to art displays, the National Center for Civil and Human Rights are providing excellent and engaging programs for Black History Month, perfect for the whole family. Here’s a few things going on during BHM:
- “Share Your Voice: Create Your Own Protest Poster”: Share your voice with The Center! Based on our iconic Paula Scher mural, children will receive a take-away sheet with instructions to create their own protest poster for issues they believe in today. A table with supplies will be available in the 3rd-floor loft space.
- Musical/Art Performances: From spoken word to musical artists, The Center will be featuring socially distanced art and musical performances throughout the month.
- Virtual Programs: The way we learn is continuously changing, and now the entire world has access to Black History Month in Atlanta. From their Virtual Poem Readings to Children’s Storytime, checking out their virtual schedule is a must.
4. Public Art
Many new additions of public art art dedicated to John Lewis, from murals to the recent ‘earth portrait’ in Freedom Park. There are many ways you can enjoy public spaces dedicated to Atlanta’s Black History. Several statues and tributes to iconic pioneers from Atlanta’s past. You can learn so much just by taking a stroll through both Freedom Park, and the Martin Luther King, Jr. National Historical Park. Check out our self-guided tour of the city, which includes a stop at APEX Museum, who are dedicated to telling history through Black perspectives.
It’s also impossible to escape the mind-blowing street art that’s proudly beautifying the city. There are several murals, pieces and statements dedicated to everything from Atlanta’s Black History to the #BLM movement.
5. Support local drag!
RuPaul once called Atlanta home. With the city being renowned nationally for its drag excellence, and pageant roots. Drag and LGBTQ+ spaces are reopening all over the city, with reduced capacity. So it’s more important than ever to support these local businesses and the Queens who call Atlanta home. Making our jump into the new normal a bit easier.
From the majestic Iman dynasty, with mother Tamisha Iman presently competing in RuPaul’s Drag Race. Atlanta is home to Black drag superstars, that’ll surely be grateful for some support. To virtual drag shows, buying some merch, or innovative socially distanced shows. Get your drag on in Atlanta!
Featured Image: @stan_herd_arts shot by @jerrito1