Ahead of the opening, we spoke with AAW founder Kendra Walker about what’s in store
ArtReview Could you tell us about the background and structure of Atlanta Art Week?
Kendra Walker The initiative fosters cultural education and exchange in Atlanta. Institutions, galleries and curators submit applications to AAW, which then reviews and either accepts or denies them. Once approved, the programming is published and promoted.
AR Why did you feel it was important to start this initiative in Atlanta, in particular?
KW I believe it’s crucial to advance Atlanta’s art scene in the national art dialogue. Having lived in Atlanta for 10 years and travelled extensively, I’ve observed how other cities are actively engaging with the art world and recognise the potential for Atlanta to achieve similar impact.
AR Is there a theme running through this year’s participations? Or have you noticed a trend in what will be presented? If so, what do you think this says about the current discourse around art in the Southeast region?
KW This year, there isn’t a specific theme, but that doesn’t rule out the possibility of incorporating themes in the future. Atlanta’s rich diversity is well-represented and galleries, both in Atlanta and internationally, have shown significant interest in showcasing work with AAW that engages in a broader conversation with the Southeast.
AR One of the aims for Atlanta Art Week is to improve accessibility to the arts. Are there specific initiatives that encourage communities to engage, or is it about increasing visibility for under-represented demographics?
KW The focus is on community engagement and building a new culture of art collecting and support for contemporary art in Atlanta. We’ve achieved this through initial education on art collecting, and patronage and philanthropy in the arts.
Another key aspect is our deliberate partnerships with universities, providing MFA students with an additional platform to showcase their work. One example is our partnership with University of Georgia Lamar Dodd School of Art and Ernest G. Welch School of Art & Design at Georgia State University; this year they’ll present a group MFA exhibition titled Homework. These partnerships with universities have been crucial for highlighting the talent emerging from renowned universities in the Southeast.
We also offer internships and volunteer opportunities for university students, aiming to nurture the next generation of art professionals working with the excellent talent coming out of Spelman College, AUC Curatorial Studies Collective and Clark Atlanta University.
AR What, from your point of view, is Atlanta’s art scene like currently? Could you tell us more about the gallery / institution / grassroots ecosystem?
KW The art scene here is distinctly Southern and charming, with significant potential for growth. Atlanta is home to esteemed institutions like the High Museum of Art, Atlanta Contemporary, MOCA GA, Spelman Museum of Art and the Clark Atlanta University Art Museum. In addition to corporate art collections such as the Coca-Cola Company’s Fine Art Collection and Mercedes-Benz Art Collection. Additionally, there are galleries with long-standing presence in the city, such as Jackson Fine Art, Spalding Nix and Whitespace, as well as local arts publications such as Art Papers and Burnaway.
AR What are some of the highlights of previous editions of Atlanta Art Week?
KW Last year I enjoyed Imprints of Connection, a Land Art performance and installation by Emmanuel Massillon from UTA artist space; the open studios at Ernest G. Welch School of Art & Design at Georgia State University; the closing reception at Whitespace; artist talks at Jackson Fine Art and Arnika Dawkins Gallery; our panel discussion series at the High Museum of Art presented by The Fine Art Group and AON; and our opening reception at the Roof on Ponce City Market.
AR Are there any particular events or exhibitions that you’re looking forward to with this year’s iteration?
KW Firstly, we’re thrilled to have the support of Bank of America as a contributing sponsor this year. I am also looking forward to OCHI, showcasing a solo exhibition by Hana Ward titled Cowpea Consciousness. At Mariane Ibrahim, there will be an artist talk featuring Patrick Eugene. AndThe Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture willpresent a film and panel discussion, which is open to the public. I’m also looking forward to Jeffrey Gibson: They Teach Love, with works drawn from the collections of Jordan D. Schnitzer and his Family Foundation, at the Zuckerman Museum of Art. I wouldn’t want to miss the four-part film installation the end is the beginning, featuring work by Zina Saro-Wiwa, Maya Cozier, Charmaine Minniefield and KimberlyBinns, which is curated by Africanist Lauren Tate Baeza, and will be on view, along with SITE, an exciting event that consists of art installations, live performances, exhibitions and open studios at The Goat Farm Art Center. Aperture is presenting a pop-up exhibition by Arielle Bobb-Willis, and Spelman College Museum of FineArt will be hosting an artist talk with Ming Smith.Then at Whitespace, there will be exhibitions and performances by Neill Prewitt, Sarah Emerson, Mark Wentzel,and Zipporah Camille Thompson; at Spalding Nix there’s a group exhibition titled Something Beyond Ourselves and includes work by Charlie McCullers,Tokie Rome-Taylor and Jerushia Graham. There’s a lot to see.
AR What are your hopes for the future of Atlanta Art Week?
KW My goal for Atlanta Art Week is to develop more extensive programming and exhibitions, and to create additional opportunities for showcasing innovative art. All efforts are going towards pushing contemporary art in Atlanta forward.
Atlanta Art Week runs from 30 September until 6 October. Find out more.
