
ARTS & CULTURE
MY PROGRESS
Mayor Andre Dickens has demonstrated a deep commitment to enriching Atlanta's vibrant arts and culture scene. His administration has implemented strategic initiatives to support artists, enhance cultural infrastructure, and ensure equitable access to the arts for all residents.
Vision for the Arts
Mayor Dickens envisions the arts as integral to a thriving and diverse community. His goals include making the arts accessible to everyone, supporting individual artists, ensuring equity in art funding and support, reinvigorating the creative economy post-pandemic, and cultivating the Atlanta arts community for future generations.
Support for Artists and Increased Funding
Under Mayor Dickens' leadership, there has been a focus on providing greater support for artists, increasing the annual grant-making capacity within the city's budget, and identifying additional dedicated revenue streams for the arts. These efforts are designed to ensure that artists have the resources they need to create and flourish.
Appointment of Adriane V. Jefferson
In February 2025, Mayor Dickens appointed Adriane V. Jefferson as the new Executive Director of the Mayor's Office of Cultural Affairs (OCA). Jefferson is an award-winning cultural equity leader with a track record of transforming cultural landscapes and shaping policy. Her appointment underscores the administration's commitment to fostering a city where art and equity thrive together.
Revival of Public-Access Television
Recognizing the importance of diverse voices in media, Mayor Dickens' administration announced the revival of Atlanta's public-access television. Set to return in January after a year-long hiatus, this platform will be reimagined utilizing new technologies and supported by city-owned spaces, with proposed satellite studios in neighborhood recreation centers.
ARTSCooL Program
The City of Atlanta's ARTSCooL Program helps develop young artists by providing access to materials, instruction, and exhibition opportunities. Mayor Dickens has actively supported this program, recognizing its role in nurturing the next generation of Atlanta's creative talent.
Celebrating Cultural Experiences
Mayor Dickens has celebrated initiatives like the Cultural Experience Project, which has provided countless young Atlantans with opportunities to engage with the city's rich cultural heritage. From performances at the Atlanta Ballet to learning about the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. at the King Center, these experiences have enriched the lives of Atlanta's youth.




