Fredalyn M. Frasier, Project Director of Planning & Urban Design, CAP/ADID
On the heels of a robust inaugural year of programming, Arts & Entertainment Atlanta (A&E Atlanta) is pleased to host its second-ever digital exhibit, The South Got Something to Say, from June 1-July 31. Partnering with curator Karen Comer Lowe, four A&E Atlanta digital signs will display the work of 10 Atlanta-based artists throughout the center city.
Lowe’s inspiration for the exhibit title is taken from the words of legendary Atlanta-based rapper Andre 3000, part of the Southern hip-hop duo Outkast, at the 1995 Source Awards.
In her curator statement, she notes: “This phrase issued a proclamation about the rising impact of Atlanta as a city. Since that time, the city has risen as an influential force in music, film, and politics. This digital exhibition is a recognition of the visual culture of Atlanta and the people who contribute to that culture. The works, while variant in medium, address a reckoning with the intersectional inequities of our being.”
The South Got Something to Say will feature works by artists Sheila Pree Bright, Jurell Cayetano, Alfred Conteh, Ariel Dannielle, Shanequa Gay, Kojo Griffin, Gerald Lovell, Yanique Norman, Fahamu Pecou, and Jamele Wright.
Artwork will be on display on A&E Atlanta digital signs located at Peachtree Center, 101 Marietta, Reverb by Hard Rock Hotel, and the 75 MLK St SW Garage adjacent to Underground Atlanta. The exhibit is presented in cooperation with the Atlanta Downtown Improvement District (ADID) and A&E Atlanta media partners Orange Barrel Media and BIG Outdoor. Project support is provided by Dashboard.
At its very core, A&E Atlanta seeks to spotlight and uplift artists, specifically artists practicing in Atlanta, by leveraging the signage platform. The signs are intended to authentically reflect the vibrancy, diversity, and creativity of the City as a whole by activating Downtown streets and public spaces by hosting events and programs using the enhanced signage as the venue and leveraging the talents of Atlanta’s diverse and thriving music, art, and sports culture.
As Downtown emerges from the COVID-19 pandemic and our organization welcomes increased activity throughout the district, we are especially pleased that A&E Atlanta can contribute to a memorable experience for all who find themselves here this summer.
This year’s exhibit curator, Lowe, has gathered an exceptional lineup of Atlanta artists, creating an experience that perfectly aligns with our mission.
We hope you’ll make your way Downtown to experience The South Got Something to Say next month. For complete details, visit aeatlanta.com.
