New directions
Sept. 10 — This week’s Sketchbook highlights how Atlanta artists and institutions alike are testing fresh ideas, opening new doors, and reshaping how culture is made and shared in our city.
Inside Ansley Mall, arts collective FRANK has opened its first exhibition, a vivid declaration of LGBTQ presence in a place once defined by commerce.
Downstairs at Bloomingdale’s Lenox Square, artist Melissa Mitchell has transformed the former returns counter into a hybrid gallery and showroom, debuting furniture that carries her Abeille Creations prints into daily life.
And, at both the High Museum and the Atlanta Design Festival, new board members and advisors are bringing perspectives from business, design, and civic life, expanding who helps steer Atlanta’s institutions forward.
Forge your own creative path.
—Sherri
P.S. Looking to get started? Support Atlanta’s creative heartbeat by grabbing a ticket to this weekend’s fundraising events: Before I’m Gone Vol. 3 (City of Ink), the Living Walls Quinceañero (Goat Farm), and Hambidge Hive’s 30th Annual Auction + Party.
Being FRANK
🏳️🌈 A new LGBTQ+ collective has opened its first exhibition in Ansley Mall. “Being FRANK: It is Because I Am” transforms a former retail space into an immersive show centered on creative freedom.
➡️Explore FRANK’s debut exhibition.
Chalk it up: art, fun, and family in Chamblee!
SPONSORED BY DISCOVER DEKALB
🎨 Join the City of Chamblee for their 4th annual Chalk Walk & Artist Market – a fun, family-friendly event where sidewalks become masterpieces and creativity knows no bounds!
Whether you’re a seasoned artist or just love doodling, there’s space for everyone to show off their chalk art skills. You can compete in the artistic competition, support fine art vendors, enjoy cooling and water stations, free parking, free face painting, and more!
➞ On Sat., Sept. 20, from 10 a.m.-4 p.m. at Chamblee City Hall. Get details here!
Melissa Mitchell takes a seat in design
🪑 Known for her vibrant canvases and high-profile brand collaborations, Melissa Mitchell is now taking her Abeille Creations brand into furniture.
➡️ Step inside Mitchell’s newest installation.
🌿 Reflections is Dunwoody’s newest public art installation at Two Bridges Park, 50 Perimeter Center East, created by Huelani Mei and designed by Andrea Perez. Visitors are encouraged to “take a photo, create a moment, and let Dunwoody be a part of your story.” Learn more! SPONSOR MESSAGE
Expanding the Circle
🏛️ Two of Atlanta’s leading arts institutions are broadening their leadership. The High Museum has added new board members, while the Atlanta Design Festival has named its inaugural advisory council.
➡️Meet Atlanta’s new arts leaders.
Art Happenings
🎨 Forward Warrior 2025 | 9 a.m.-9 p.m., Sept. 13 | Wylie Street – pedestrians and bikes only 10 a.m.-7 p.m. (pictured).
📸 2025 Juried Photography Show and Competition: Opening Reception | 6-8 p.m., Sept. 12 | Arts Clayton Gallery.
💔 “Before Heartbreak” Exhibition Opening | 7 p.m.-11 p.m., Sept. 12 | Old Rabbit Gallery.
✨ “David E. Peterson: Color Block Synthesis 47.142” Exhibition Opening | 6-9 p.m., Sept. 12 | Marcia Wood Gallery.
🗣️ from within, so together: Mona Bozorgi & Tokie Rome-Taylor Artist Talk | 3 p.m., Sept. 13 | Swan Coach House Gallery.
🖼️ “Eye Get By With A Little Help From My Friends” Group Exhibition | 5 p.m., Sept. 13 | Cat Eye Creative Downtown.
Post of the Week
🎨 Back in the studio!
Artist Carol Santos is painting after a year away. Her new landscape is up for bid at the 2025 Hambidge Hive Auction.
➡️ Dive into the work.
🖋️ Today’s Sketchbook was edited by Julie E. Bloemeke.
