The Metropolitan Atlanta Rapid Transit Authority (MARTA) have a public art program called Artbound. This inspiring arts program has been keeping our transit system vibrant and artsy since its foundations. Artbound, along with local arts collective NEXT Atlanta will soon launch the NEXT Movement, a multi-platform arts and social action campaign.
A movement fueled by the COVID-19 pandemic and racial reckoning spurred by the murder of George Floyd and others, the NEXT Movement brings together five of Atlanta’s most influential artists of color and local leading art activists to share their artistry and personal stories.
The first season of the NEXT Movement features poet and author, Jon Goode, musician CC Sunchild, cellist Okorie ‘OkCello’ Johnson, and more! The diverse line-up of artists have all been commissioned to develop a piece of art or performance that explores the question of “Where do we go NEXT?” – both as a city and as a community.
Starting Sept. 19 and running through the end of the year, the artwork will be performed or exhibited in a range of spaces across the city and amplified by NEXT partners, including the Integral Group, the High Museum of Art and the National Black Arts (NBAF).
This includes a photo exhibit and poster series, filmed performances, and so much more. For more information, click here. You can also follow Marta Artbound on Instagram to stay up to date with this exciting project!
“MARTA is proud and excited to be part of such an incredible art driven movement,” said MARTA Art in Transit Director Katherine Dirga. “Through this partnership with NEXT, MARTA is able to amplify its role as a community connector and an arts leader, engaging Atlantans around the critical issues that affect us most.”