The illustrious art scene of Old Fourth Ward’s Edgewood Avenue is experiencing a major renaissance with the arrival of two new contemporary art galleries—The Sun ATL and One Contemporary. These dynamic spaces, situated at 399 and 395 Edgewood Avenue, are transforming the area into a vibrant hub for modern art. As part of a larger revitalization effort in conjunction with the nonprofit organization BE on Edgewood, these galleries mark a new era for Atlanta’s most significant cultural corridor.

The Sun ATL, founded by veteran gallerist Shawn Vinson, is a sprawling 9,200-square-foot venue that blends the sophistication of a gallery with the historical depth of a museum. Its inaugural exhibition, First Light, showcases over one hundred original works by sixteen local and international artists, including paintings by the late Purvis Young and photography by Jim Alexander capturing Black music and culture. The space is designed not only to highlight contemporary art but also to honor the rich creative legacy of Atlanta.  .

Next door, One Contemporary Gallery, established by Faron Manuel, former director of the Black Art In America Foundation, debuts with The Start of Something, a group exhibition spotlighting millennial artists at pivotal moments in their careers. Manuel envisions the gallery as a bridge between diverse communities, fostering deeper engagement with contemporary art and its cultural narratives. His approach brings a fresh, inclusive perspective to the art scene, emphasizing accessibility and representation. These galleries are more than just exhibition spaces—they symbolize a cultural shift on Edgewood Avenue. Long known for its energetic nightlife and rowdy weekend crowds, the area is now evolving into a more refined and multifaceted destination.

The collaboration between The Sun ATL, One Contemporary, and BE on Edgewood signals a push toward a more intentional balance between entertainment and enrichment, reinforcing the neighborhood’s role as both a social and creative epicenter. As Edgewood Avenue continues to develop, its artistic resurgence is reshaping the broader King Historic District into a premier destination for art lovers. The efforts of gallerists like Vinson and Manuel are setting the stage for a future where Atlanta’s creative economy thrives alongside its nightlife, offering a dynamic blend of culture, history, and innovation. With these new spaces, Edgewood is stepping confidently into a new chapter—one where art, community, and commerce intersect to create something much bigger..