Atlanta Contemporary

252 reviews

535 Means St NW, Atlanta, GA 30318

www.atlantacontemporary.org

+14046881970

About

Atlanta Contemporary is a Art museum located at 535 Means St NW, Atlanta, GA 30318. It has received 252 reviews with an average rating of 4.6 stars.

Photos

Hours

Monday12-8PM
Tuesday12-5PM
Wednesday12-5PM
Thursday12-4PM
FridayClosed
Saturday12-5PM
Sunday12-5PM

F.A.Q

Frequently Asked Questions

  • The address of Atlanta Contemporary: 535 Means St NW, Atlanta, GA 30318

  • Atlanta Contemporary has 4.6 stars from 252 reviews

  • Art museum

  • "My wife and I are art professionals -- she an art historian with a specialty in Contemporary art, and I am a painter and art professor"

    "The front desk is really awesome"

    "MUST SEE in ATL! Their space is beautiful, and you can easily tell that their curators really worked hard to utilize the space with natural lighting, a little nook with art, a basement with a dark-ish setting ambience and lots of open floor"

    "Saw the Sam Gilliam exhibit at Atlanta Contemporary today"

    "On October 9th I was servicing a wedding that was taking place here"

Reviews

  • H Boone

My wife and I are art professionals -- she an art historian with a specialty in Contemporary art, and I am a painter and art professor. Our artistic interests are varied and forward-looking. That said, a visit to the Atlanta Art Center yesterday to view the Biennial Exhibit was most disappointing to say the least. Frankly, it is demoralizing to consider that the Southest has a wealth of artistc talent that deserves to respresent current artistic currents in region, but the ACC has chosen some of the most inept and sophomoric of work to display. There was one line artist, Perez, whose pastel and charcoal work was gripping and truly meritorious. Other than that, most of the other work was facil and uninspiring at best and others just plain awful. The curator seemed to choose work by artists who in some way are marginalized (e g., mentally ill), and not consider artistic merit. If they want to have an exhibit of untrained and clueless artists okay, but then call it that. Don't present this as representative of arts in the Southeast (which is the purpose of a biennial). I'd like to think that maybe there simply was a very poor pool of applicants, and not that the curator was so terribly inept. Atlanta has not done well compared to other cities in establishing itself as an important "art city". Save a few very good private galleries, one or two good nonprofit spaces, the Carlos Museum, and the High, there is a terrible lack of artistic leadership and here. When the local press publishes an article it is often about street or pubic arrt, thus offeri g a myopic view of Atlanta art When it was the Nexxus years ago, the ACC was considered favorably. But this exhibit and previous exhibits indicate a management that really has no business running such a space that could be doing great things. They are in fact only celebrating and facilitating mediocrity.

  • Miss Guided

The front desk is really awesome. I went on a cold rainy day to kill some time. I was kindly greeted and given a very in-depth overview of the museum. We talked about art for a good 20 minutes. The space is small but the art is very thought provoking. I put together an entire art collection that I want to create based of the art in the museum. It was definitely influential to me. The museum is also free. And it’s a very spacial place. I love spacial artistry. I was also given some nice places to check out near by although the diner closes at 3 pm and therefore I couldn’t go. I found a nice bookstore that had a great vibe to just chill!! Oh and the museum is free!!

  • Mallory Hoffman

MUST SEE in ATL! Their space is beautiful, and you can easily tell that their curators really worked hard to utilize the space with natural lighting, a little nook with art, a basement with a dark-ish setting ambience and lots of open floor. When COVID is calmed down and the weather is nice, I definitely want to see more shows they have to offer. Also, the folks at the front desk are welcoming, can answer any questions you have, and will even stick around to talk with you about your favorite pieces and more programs they have to offer. Truly a wonderful space.

  • Brenda Niforth

Saw the Sam Gilliam exhibit at Atlanta Contemporary today. It is wonderful, and is around till 12/23. Like all of the current and former exhibits I have seen at this institution it was beautifully and carefully curated. Atlanta Contemporary is a real treasure for our arts community. Go now! FYI - admission is free, but you should register online before your visit. You can also leave a donation when you visit, which I strongly recommend.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
Yes
Price for adult entry
Free

  • Marvis White

On October 9th I was servicing a wedding that was taking place here. I was parked in the parking lot farthest away from the building. The manager, Ethan took time from his busy schedule to come and check on me and offer me some water and anything else I may need. He came every two hours. Also one of the caterers came out to offer me food. In the years I've serviced weddings I've never felt more cared about. Ethan is a valuable asset to this company. I look forward to working with him in the future. Thanks again for showing me love!!!

  • TCA Operations

Super neat facility, and very transitional gallery space. And let's not forget the 14 working artist studios. Wow. I just attended the (free) 9/50 Summit and would like to give ACAC a pat on the back for that incredible panel discussions on Sunday: Does Regionalism exist? Many thanks to the staff and partner organizations who brought us all together in the wonderful city of Atlanta this past weekend.

  • Jolynn Sockwell

Always great exhibits rotating frequently. Programming has been getting better and better every year. I have only been frequenting the museum for the past 4 years. So I cannot speak to all the years before which I'm sure were glorious. A sort of Hidden Gem in Atlanta. All the more so for it's now free entry. leave a tip in their dip jar though it's a deserving organization.

  • Jason Lin

Little hidden gem in the Atlanta! It's a free museum with some unique and interesting exhibits. They have some free parking spaces next to and behind the museum. Very friendly employee. They have some local and unique gifts in their gift shop. Nice place to spend half to an hour of time browsing the museum. Come check it out and donate or shop to support the museum!

  • Haley Stalford

I had a really fun experience here! The exhibits were unique to some of the things I've seen before and while you cant look into the artist studios outside it was really cool to know we were surrounded by finished art and well as near where art was being created. The staff was also so knowledgeable and friendly I will definitely go back next time I'm in Atlanta

  • Jalease Turner

Free entry, almost no one there when we went, great art. And the gift shop area had some really cool stuff. Also, there were these 2 extra spaces to view art outside of the main gallery so make sure you check the map so you don’t miss anything. My friend told me too that they change the art on display from time to time so I definitely plan to go back again.

  • N B

It’s a nice, quiet and calm place to visit during the weekend. I had a great time walking around and exploring, discovering interesting art pieces and browsing the gift shop. They have a machine at the front desk where you can choose to make a donation of 10$ or you can also do a cash donation. The staff members are really nice and helpful.

  • Riley Osborn

keep an eye out for the open gallery events twice a year because they are so worth it! it's $1 for a student ticket and $5 regular. you get a chance to meet all of the artists working in the studios there and it's a beautiful and unique experience that gives a holistic view of the entire process from idea to creation to presentation.

  • Marisol Ortiz

Atlanta Contemporary Art Center was unfortunately not my cup of tea. It has so little to see, it took us ten minutes to see. For us personally it was really not worth travelling 31 minutes to visit. Maybe they are just starting. I do not know. Beauty is in the eye of the beholder. Maybe you would like it.

  • Sebastian Jackson

Absolutely beautiful!! Great location, plenty of free parking, and they had a wonderful exhibit. What sends them over the edge is they have fun interactive activities outside while you wait to enter due to social distancing. Great experience. I was a first timer, but I'll be back.

  • Shantae Shaffer

Really unique art. I came to see artist @Bitterdarlings art exhibit. She celebrates and represent women through art, women who live life to the fullest with no regrets. Women who a perfectly imperfect. Women empowerment is such a beautiful thing. Art is beauty. …

  • Shan R

A great place for exploring art and very budget friendly since its free! I took my kids there and we really enjoyed learning about the museum's history as well as each artists exhibition. The museum administrator Ethan was also super friendly, humorous and helpful!

  • Mariam Johnson

I’ve been to a lot of art centers and museum including modern and contemporary art, however I have never seen so many random installations in one place. I did like couple artworks, but that Santa Claus room was disturbing if not cringe worthy

  • Breezy Bby

It was a cool place to see what idea locals were showcasing and to spread awareness of artists in the area, but there wasn't too much to look at. This is not a day trip, but perhaps a nice stop to check things out every now and then.

  • Monét Thompson

I went for a field trip with my university and I got to meet 5 of the artists and the director. The staff was very helpful and friendly. I loved seeing the artists’ studio and talking with each of them. I will definitely come again

  • Zachary Appleby-Leo

The space is wonderful and it's really encouraging to see a place like this surviving the pandemic. The featured exhibit was really powerful and I was so glad the voices being shared have a space willing to let them speak.

  • D. O.

A smaller space BUT the exhibitions they've held have always been been amazingly beautiful. I love that admission is free everyday. A lovely spot to visit if you're in the city and have an hour or so to spare

  • MU3, Chambers Damian

An absolutely stunning collection of art by one of Atlanta's few Female curators. The architecture of the space is a piece of art in itself. Be sure to stop by and experience this when you are in the city!

  • Socorro Delgado

A must for Atlanta to embarace this museum. Artists there offer another view of social issues. Loved the butterfly exhibit of the harsh reality of immigrants and refugees. Let us support this art center.

  • Sandralyn Dannelley

The gallery is urban and and features both gallery and performance areas. The parking is NOT accessible without having to go all the way around the large lot. The building itself is accessible.

  • Jasschelle Jass

I enjoyed exploring the different exhibits and soaking in the art Saturday. I made my reservation the same day and it was easy. Parking was also easy and close. Very pleased with my visit.

  • Shaneka X

A small quaint museum with a few small exhibits. Registered online which made it free admission. Parking was on the street. Which wasn't too bad seeing that the museum was very small.

  • Simone Hawkeye (God Is)

Our Nation and our children are in need of Unity! God Bless these college kids and our little people leading! We love you! Thankyou for fighting for your education and America!

  • Harneet Heer

This gallery was great! The staff was very welcoming and knowledgeable. The work displayed was very interesting and inspiring. I had a great time here and highly recommend!!

  • Sidnee Freeman

Very cool little museum! The staff was really nice and informative. Very inclusive space. Unique art work. I just wish there were more placards that described the artwork.

  • Reginald Laurent

Personal tour of current exhibit by Nisa Floyd. Beautiful exhibit and she is beyond knowledgeable about each artist's narratives. Must see in person to truly appreciate.

  • Troy Scott

Parking was a challenge but well worth it. Thoroughly enjoyed the current exhibits. Staff was very friendly and helpful. Exhibits were well layed out and documented.

  • Sibyl Slade

We attended a private event. The outdoor garden was beautiful. While the art in museum was wonderfully curated, there were a very limited number of pieces.

  • The Harris Family

OH MY! This place is awesome! We visited to tour for the facility for our wedding. We love it! We're working with Ethan now and he's absolutely, amazing!

  • Sam Wagner

Cool studio space YES to Justice, Peace, & Art FREE (w/ donation)! #NOLA_Haiku @atlantacontemporary #ATLarts #LocalArt #ContemporaryArt #ACAC #ModernArt

  • Optometrist J

I went to see the pieces curated by TK Smith and he did an amazing job. Very spacious, I was able to spend time with the works and really take them in.

  • Charity Harris

Great art and friendly people. The museum is free and has free parking as well. Make sure to come during their craft cocktail series and open studios!

  • Kyala Ahava

Fancy, fun, and free! We got invited by an artist and it was super great. Signs for parking suck. Signs for where the art is sucks too! But it's free!

  • Rose Peterson

Small gallery with a cute store form local artists and free everyday! I saw Georgian women being highlighted with colorful depictions of a new world.

  • icy_ rockwitu

This place is closed until October 2013 for renovations. Once it's up and running, I will revise my review. They don't charge admission on Thursdays.

  • Lindsay Bytof

Grea space! Really unique works. Came to see a show performance outdoors but was able to tour the gallery at intermission. Will definitely be back.

  • Blue Jay

If you are looking for a free, progressive, poc, queer arts space that is on the edge of contemporary work in the south east region, come to ACAC!

  • SJ Photography

The poem reading was EXCELLENT today February 9, 2019 and the artist was very handsome lol. The artwork was great too. I will be back soon!

  • Torii H.

Loved the experience and there were lots of eye opening, beautiful, and self reflective/expressive art pieces. You definitely must go see.

  • Jason Pierson

Small gallery/museum that shows really interesting work. Very friendly staff, nice bookstore; and admission is free! Worth a visit.

  • Joe Sykes

I don't know enough about this place. You don't know enough about this place. You should go and check it out. But maybe call first.

  • Frank Allen

Wow wonderful exsperience me and my 3 daughters did oil painting together, toured the museum and donated to the museum

  • photos lockridge

Great experience love the atmosphere food was great..thanks for having me BET.. ALSO THE STAFF WORKING WAS EXCELLENT

  • S Chaney

Very nice experience into modern art with local and regional artists on exhibit...not crowded and always free …

  • Kimberly Germaine

You must already be fond of contemporary art to enjoy your visit. here. It's kind of sparse to show off the work.

  • Ernesto Rodriguez Robelt

Was a great experience, really nice exposition, also you can play table tennis, the staff are very nice people.

  • Sara Magdeline Abdulla

Cool, free nonprofit art center. Not in the best area, but there is parking and the place itself is marvelous.

  • Daryl Perry

Excellent place to see local art and have the kids do activities / crafts once a month! Highly recommended!

  • Ben Denise Stringer

It’s a nice art museum for free. It isn’t too big so it doesn’t take too long to see all the art exhibits.

  • Khurram Hassan

Best free arts gallery in the city. Great exhibits and welcoming space. And...they have a ping pong table!

  • Anjali Chandrashekar

Small gallery with free admission. Caught one extensive photography exhibit that was really interesting.

  • Snigdaa Sethuram

Pretty nice place and awesome that it has free admission. They also support equal rights which I love!

  • Aleisha DuChateau

Contemporary works shown here and getting very diverse with the choice of art mediums exhibited

  • David Dawson

Smaller than I had anticipated but a really great collection when I was there in January 2019.

  • julia rene

Had lots of cute places for pictures! I was ready to spend my whole savings in the gift shop.

  • Cesar Beltran

Very lax and accepting environment. Be accepting off all the hardwork all the artist put in

  • Doug Farmer

Very cool contemporary art space! Super nice staff and great art ! I will be back for sure

  • Adam Caskey

Love this place. Check their website for various happenings and exhibitions. Worth a stop.

  • thomas swanston

The best visual arts programing in the city...off the beaten track but worth searching out

  • Jim Backstrom

Larger space focused on very contemporary art. Lots of shows try to make an opening party

  • Larry Starke Jr (IG thestarkenakedtruth)

We definitely enjoyed the exhibit during our visit. This will be a place we visit often.

  • Whitney Pyles

Such a great, digestible place to see art. Always have interesting and fun events too!

  • Cashelle Rose

Love this gallery! They always have interesting new art. Great classes for kids too.

  • LeTitia Williams

Great tour of an awesomely interesting space. I would love to be a featured artist!

  • Cee Cee's Events

Very peaceful and calm art gallery. It's free but you do have to register it.

  • David Debs

Neat. Go there and be impressed by the interesting but limited exhibitions.

  • Danny Davis

It's Free. It's an awesome, beautiful space. The art changes regularly. Go.

  • Jason A.

Really lovely exhibits on display right now. Super friendly staff as well!

  • Joe Reger

Fun way to spend an afternoon. Great exhibits and laid back art exploring.

  • DeeDee Johnson

Nice place to go and see some of the local artists and their works of art.

  • Christina Collandra

You should always check out what's going on at The Atlanta Contemporary!

  • michael hogan

A hidden cultural gem on Atlanta's West Side. I'm going back for sure.

  • Rebecca Cullers

This place is a hidden gem their programs to help artists are great!

  • Jade

Very nice space. Enjoyed the art and the staff were truly amazing!

  • Caroline Blanchard

Drove there just for eggrolls.... OMG... the freaking best!!!

  • Thomas Killoy

Unique exhibits rotating quarterly. Very friendly staff.

  • J Lillian Gray

Great covid protocols and quality contemporary art.

  • Terance Wilkinson

Great location and Atmosphere....and FREE ADMISSION

  • Daynise

This is an interesting stop if you have the time.

  • James Kelley

Interesting variety of art and cultural exhibits.

  • Marcel W. Foster

I'm invaluable resource of Atlanta and in the US!

  • brian toms

Of Care and Destruction is a great exhibit

  • Michael Dillon

Amazing what is going on here. Brilliant

  • Freddie Ortiz

It was bare and it didn't have much art

  • Drew Capone

It's free to get in. Very cool space.

  • Deekayla

Amazing art with beautiful messages.

  • Nigel Welch

Very interesting exhibit currently

  • Elana dimant

Dont go, they barely have any art.

  • Hoyt Nunnally

Free entry. Great for a nice date

  • sarai Torres

Free museum with Great exhibits.

  • Matt Maddox

A cozy place to see an art show

  • Bruce Voirin

Big waste of good gallery space

  • Eric Wen

great exhibits and cool vibes!

  • Madison Mueller

Very abstract i love it …

  • Kasey Medlin

Admission and coffee is free!!

  • N A

Small space but Beautiful art

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