Atlanta Welcomes New Leadership for Its Public Arts Initiative
Atlanta is buzzing with excitement as the city has officially named Amina Cooper the first-ever director of its 15-year-old public arts initiative. This is no small feat—Cooper will guide a remarkable program that’s responsible for the eye-catching murals, stunning sculptures, and lively performances found along the Atlanta Beltline corridor. As the new Director of Arts and Culture, she will oversee famed projects such as Tiny Doors and the beloved annual Lantern Parade, in addition to collaborating with over 100 artists showcasing 56 existing works of art.
A Vision for Atlanta’s Cultural Landscape
In a recent press release, Cooper shared her enthusiasm for her new role, describing the Beltline as a “paragon” of urban planning and design. She emphasized how it beautifully merges various aspects like planning, community development, transportation, and civic health with arts and culture. “I’m excited for the opportunity to leverage that attention in a way that truly benefits and elevates Atlanta’s artists and cultural stewards,” she remarked.
Cooper isn’t new to arts organization leadership. In her previous role as the Program Director of Public Art at the Arts & Science Council in Charlotte, she successfully managed major art commissioning projects, including those at the busy Charlotte Douglas International Airport. With her impressive background that also includes positions at the Glenstone Museum and Wolf Trap Foundation, Atlanta’s arts community is in good hands. A proud graduate of Howard University and Boston University, Cooper is prepared to make waves in her hometown.
Uplifting Atlanta’s Artists
Reflecting on her decade-long focus on community and equity, Cooper said, “To now be able to uplift best practices in equitable, culture-based programming for the community I was born and raised in, in collaboration with the artist community that’s so familiar and dear to me, is an incredible gift.” This deep sense of commitment toward enhancing Atlanta’s vibrant artistic landscape resonates well with locals who appreciate a community that values creativity and inclusivity.
Joining Cooper in her mission will be Chelsea Morey, who will serve as the new Arts and Culture Project Manager. Morey, who previously directed exhibitions at the High Museum of Art in Atlanta, will coordinate various public art functions of the Atlanta Beltline initiative, including both short-term and long-term projects. With these two talented leaders at the helm, the future looks bright for Atlanta’s public arts.
Exciting Times Ahead
As they settle into their roles, it’s essential to note that the Beltline is gearing up to celebrate its 20th anniversary in 2025. The ambitious project is also on track for completion by the year 2030. Cooper and Morey are looking forward to curating legacy art installations that will not only enrich the Beltline but also mark these significant milestones.
In the words of Nonet Sykes, the Chief Equity & Inclusion Officer of the Beltline, “I am confident that under Amina’s leadership, we will continue our mission to ensure that the Beltline is a vibrant, artistic hub for all of Atlanta.” And couldn’t we all use a little *more* of that artistic vibe in our lives?
As exciting developments unfold along the Atlanta Beltline with new art, installations, and events, one thing’s for sure: the artistic community of Atlanta is poised to bloom more than ever. With dedicated leaders like Cooper and Morey, the opportunities to experience art in everyday life are just beginning!
