Exciting Changes Coming to Atlanta’s Arts Scene
Atlanta is buzzing with excitement as the city welcomes Amina Cooper as the first-ever Director of Arts and Culture for the Atlanta Beltline, Inc. This new role marks a transformative moment for the acclaimed Atlanta Beltline Art initiative, which has been a vibrant part of the community since its inception in 2009. Cooper, a talented and passionate arts leader, is set to guide the strategic vision and oversee the development of an array of public art installations, special events, and exhibitions throughout the Beltline.
A Passionate Return to Her Roots
Having grown up in Atlanta, Cooper is thrilled to return to her hometown and contribute to its flourishing arts scene. “It means the world to me,” she shares enthusiastically. “For the past 10 years, my work has focused on community and equity. 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.” Her love for Atlanta and commitment to its growth is undoubtedly a key motivator in her new role.
A Wealth of Experience
Cooper brings a treasure trove of knowledge, having held leadership positions in public art management, curation, and public policy. Most recently, she served as the Program Director for Public Art at the Arts & Science Council in Charlotte, where she oversaw significant public art projects, including commissions for the Charlotte Douglas International Airport. Her impressive background also includes experience with esteemed organizations such as the Wolf Trap Foundation for the Performing Arts and Glenstone Museum. With a Bachelor of Fine Arts from Howard University and a Master’s in Arts Administration from Boston University, Cooper is well-equipped to take on this new challenge.
A New Face Joins the Team
Joining Cooper in this exciting journey is Chelsea Morey, who has been appointed as the Arts and Culture Project Manager. Morey comes to the Atlanta Beltline from the High Museum of Art in Atlanta, where she excelled as the Manager of Exhibitions. She will play a crucial role in coordinating the public art activities of Atlanta Beltline Art, ensuring the design and planning of both permanent and temporary art projects aligns with the overall vision of the Beltline.
Art for Everyone
Since its inception, Atlanta Beltline Art has blossomed into one of the largest temporary public art exhibitions across the U.S. Thanks to its diverse range of artists—over 100 artists featured and 56 works showcased—it has grown to be a beloved part of the Beltline experience, inviting residents and visitors alike to engage with art in new and exciting ways.
Cooper mentions, “The Beltline is a paragon, referenced and cited by leaders across the world as representing the future of urban planning and design.” With a commitment to merging transportation, community development, and arts, Cooper is eager to leverage this attention to support Atlanta’s artistic community and cultural landscape.
Looking to the Future
The Atlanta Beltline aims to complete its ambitious 22-mile trail corridor by 2030, with arts and culture playing an integral role in its ongoing projects. As the Beltline approaches its milestone 20th anniversary in 2025, exciting legacy art installations will be curated along the trail to celebrate and enrich the community further.
A Vibrant Hub for All
Nonet Sykes, Atlanta Beltline’s Chief Equity & Inclusion Officer, expresses confidence in Cooper’s leadership: “Atlanta Beltline Art is a powerful force, weaving connections and breaking down barriers across our diverse communities. 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.”
The future looks bright for arts and culture in Atlanta, and residents can look forward to new events and installations that reflect the heart and soul of the community. To stay updated on Atlanta Beltline Art and upcoming events, make sure to explore the thrilling offerings that await you along the trail.
