Atlanta Artist Cohort 2024

Neighbor. has teamed up with Black Futurists Group, Black Youth Project, & Black Life Everywhere, a digital magazine centered in the radical spirit of resistance and hope across the Black diaspora, as co-editors to uplift the contributions of Black art to Atlanta culture today. This work is our commitment to the framework of using art to expand and liberate Black people spiritually and consciously.

Meet the Co-editors

A woman with styled hair, jewelry, tattoos, and rings posing with her hand on her chin, sitting in front of an intricate mural.
A smiling man with short hair and a beard, wearing a tan and white floral patterned shirt, stands in front of a colorful mural depicting scenes of people and nature.

Penelope French

Founder & Executive Director

Neighbor.

Devin Barrington-Ward

Managing Director

Black Furturists Group

About the Cohort

We have created a dynamic program aimed at supporting and spotlighting artists who are dedicated to fostering liberation-focused narratives in Atlanta. Over the course of 12 weeks, this cohort will provide a platform for artists to showcase their work, engage in meaningful discussions, and contribute to the cultural landscape of our city.

The Power of Black Art: Black art is more than just creative expression; it is the lifeblood of our culture, preserving our stories, our struggles, and our resilience. It is a testament to the beauty and complexity of Black existence, affirming our humanity in a world that often seeks to diminish it. Black artists are the custodians of our collective memory, weaving together the threads of our past, present, and future into vibrant tapestries of liberation and empowerment. As the gods use us to create, we honor our ancestors and inspire future generations through the transformative power of our art.

Art in Atlanta Today: Atlanta pulsates with artistic vibrancy and cultural dynamism, reflecting a diverse range of voices, perspectives, and mediums. From the street art adorning our neighborhoods to the avant-garde performances challenging conventional norms, Atlanta's artistic landscape is a testament to the city's rich history and vibrant future. Today, art in Atlanta serves as a catalyst for dialogue, social change, and community empowerment, bridging divides and amplifying marginalized voices. We know what Atlanta has contributed to Black Culture, and we want to know what is the contribution to art and culture today.

Meet the Artist

  • A woman with dreadlocks and tattoos, sitting in front of a colorful mural, smiling, with her hand near her chin, wearing jewelry and a patterned belt.

    Penelope French (they/she/he)

    Revolutionary Soul Singer -Songwriter

  • A person with glasses, a cap worn backwards, and wearing a camouflage-patterned shirt, smiling and sitting in front of a colorful mural depicting a rural scene with people farming, trees, and a flower in the background.

    Angela Hill (she/her)

    Designer & Photographer

  • Chris Charles (he/him)

    Poet & Lyricist

  • Person with glasses, tattoos, and a black knit hat sitting in front of a colorful mural, holding a dark green circular fan.

    Opal Gay (She/they)

    Writer & Poet

  • A person with long dreadlocks, wearing a large hat, a plaid shirt, and multiple necklaces, smiling and posing with hands in front of a colorful mural.

    Chris Parker (he/him)

    Historic Documentarian & Multidisciplinary Artistt

  • A smiling man with a beard, wearing a beige shirt with red tie-dye patterns, making a playful gesture with his hands under his chin, sitting in front of a colorful mural.

    Wendell Santiago (he/him)

    Jewelry Crafter

  • Smiling young person with braided hair in front of a green screen, indoors with ceiling lights.

    Gira Soul (she/her)

    Singer - Songwriter

  • A woman smiling, wearing glasses and jewelry, standing in front of a colorful, artistic background with a mural.

    Tiara Mbonisi (she/her)

    Writer & Podcaster

  • A woman with short hair, wearing a patterned top, a white jacket draped over her shoulder, and dark pants, standing in front of a mural with various figures and a large flower.

    Crystal Autumn (she/her)

    Singer-Songwriter

  • A smiling woman with tattoos and dreadlocks, wearing an off-shoulder denim top and jeans, sitting in front of a colorful mural depicting a vibrant outdoor scene.

    Dehja-Vaughn (she/her)

    Poet, Lyricist, Podcaster

  • A black and white photograph of a man with dark skin, curly hair, and a beard, sitting in front of a colorful artistic mural. He is wearing a light-colored t-shirt, a scarf around his neck, and various bracelets and rings.

    Blaze Heru (he/him/they)

    Cinematographer

  • A young man sitting in front of a colorful mural, resting his head on his hand, wearing rings and necklaces, with a calm and confident expression.

    LaSalle (he/him)

    Painter & Muralist