On Saturday, June 21, Atlanta Contemporary, one of the southeast’s leading contemporary art centers, throws open the portal to the ATLANTAVERSE, during its annual Art Party fundraiser event. From 7 p.m. to midnight, the West Midtown campus will come alive with open studios, live performances, DJ sets, and seven dynamic exhibitions, including a 30-year retrospective of R.Land’s iconic work.
This year’s theme, ATLANTAVERSE, honors the city’s past, present, and future as intersecting creative universes—each shaped by Atlanta’s artists, cultures, and communities. Event highlights include sets from local DJ favorites Lady Marauder, Lillie Smalls, Sofa King and Wally Sparks; SUBLIME, a group sculpture exhibition; installations by Courtney Brooks and Sayma Hossain; and a curated pop-up shop featuring Stokely’s Records and For Keeps Books.
We asked Floyd Hall, Atlanta Contemporary’s executive director, for tips on how to fully experience the night. From the parking situation to what vibe to bring, here are five things to know before you go.
1. Plan your entrance like a pro.
“This is a big block party,” Hall says, “with a partial street closure.” Your best bet? Rideshare. It’ll save you the stress of parking and drop you close to the action.
2. Don’t miss The Secret Garden.
Step through the corner of the Studio Artist Courtyard to discover The Secret Garden, a stunning outdoor installation by artist Courtney Brooks, specially activated for the event.
3. Tour first, socialize next.
Want to see and be seen? The courtyard becomes the social hub of the night. Hall recommends starting with the main gallery exhibitions, then letting the courtyard serve as your creative landing pad.
4. Come dressed to impress—yourself.
This year’s vibe is all about “confidence, celebration, and imagination,” Hall says. Expect bold looks, big energy, and a crowd ready to reflect the city’s creative future.
5. Embrace the ATLANTAVERSE.
So, what exactly is the ATLANTAVERSE? According to Hall, it’s a tribute to “all the amazing people, places, neighborhoods, and moments … that make Atlanta such a dynamic place.” Think of it as a multiverse of Atlanta identities, converging for one unforgettable night.
Read more:
• Idea Capital awards 2025 arts grants to eight Atlanta creative projects
• Midtown Alliance announces artists for Heart of the Arts Residency
Ready to enter the ATLANTAVERSE?
The 2025 Art Party starts 7 p.m. on Saturday, June 21 at Atlanta Contemporary (535 Means St NW). Grab your tickets now here.
