The 2024-2025 Nexus Fund cycle will give $6,000 to support ten artist-driven projects that engage in risk-taking and experimentation, notably those projects that broaden critical discourse and challenge traditional assumptions. We are seeking proposals for projects – particularly those that are multi-disciplinary and collaborative – that provoke social engagement and center the diverse audiences living and working in Metro Atlanta. The fund will disburse ten, $6,000 grants totaling $60,000. In order to ensure that artists of every ethnicity, race, gender expression, sexual orientation, disability status, and socioeconomic class have access to this fund, Atlanta Contemporary will work with new and established partners to reach communities that have been historically underrepresented.
 

 Project Requirements:

 • Projects should directly benefit individuals and communities of the 11-county Metro Atlanta region (Cherokee, Clayton, Cobb, DeKalb, Douglas, Fayette, Forsyth, Fulton, Gwinnett, Henry, and Rockdale), as defined by the Atlanta Regional Commission.
 • Projects should be mindful of public health protocols and open to all
 • Preference will be given to projects that:
        • are multi-disciplinary and collaborative
        • provoke social engagement
        • center the diverse audiences living and working in Metro Atlanta
 • Projects must be accomplished by September 30, 2025
 • Collaborative projects are encouraged, but we ask that only one application is submitted per project.

 Who is not eligible?

 • 501(c)3 organizations are not eligible for project funding.
 • Current undergraduate and graduate students are not eligible for project funding.
 • Nexus fund grant money is not “seed money” and projects must be fully funded by the grant. You are welcome to seek out additional funding for your project, but the project must still be accomplished with the Nexus grant.
 • Already established projects and collaborations will not be awarded grants as we want to provide opportunity for risk-taking and experimentation in new projects.

SUBLIME

The sublime transcends the limits of language, immersing us in awe, reverence, and introspection. The chemical phenomenon of sublimation is characterized by a transition or conversion as a result of a change in energy. SUBLIME is an exhibition of sculpture and installation that embodies these concepts, inviting artists to present works that challenge perceptions, stir emotions, and explore transitions.

Submission Criteria

We welcome submissions from artists working in all sculptural disciplines and installation. 

• Eligibility: Artists of all levels of experience are welcome to apply. Artists must be 18 years of age and older and must currently live within the Metro Atlanta 11-counties designated as: Cherokee, Clayton, Cobb, DeKalb, Douglas, Fayette, Forsyth, Fulton, Gwinnett, Henry, and Rockdale.
• Mediums: All three-dimensional media including sound and video are allowed with the exception of live plants, food, or animals. Artwork modifications can be requested to preserve the integrity of the facilities and other artists’ works.
• Theme: We seek works that engage with the sublime, interpreted through sculptural and installation works of any kind.
• Scale: Submissions may range from smaller objects to large-scale installations. Works must fit within a standard, industrial-sized double door. 

Application Requirements

1. Visual Documentation: High-resolution images (up to 5) for each submitted work, capturing multiple angles and details. For Audio and Video submissions, please upload up to one minute of your work.
2. Concept Statement: A concise narrative (100-300 words) articulating the relationship between your work and the theme of the sublime.
3. Professional Profile: We require the following documents: artist CV, artist biography, and a head shot as well as artists’ Instagram handle and website. 
4. Technical Details: Dimensions, materials, and any installation considerations, including any requirements for power, technology, or suspension.

Timeline

• Deadline for Submissions: February 10, 2025 or until 50 applications are received, whichever comes first.
• Notifications of Acceptance: March 7, 2025
• Exhibition Dates: June 17, 2025 – September 14, 2025
• Location: Atlanta Contemporary | 535 Means Street NW. Atlanta, GA 30318

How to Submit

All submissions must be sent via Submittable by February 10, 2025. Incomplete applications or applications that do not follow the guidelines will not be considered. For inquiries or further details, contact Miranda at operations@atlantacontemporary.org.

Selection Process

All work accepted into SUBLIME will be reviewed by a blind jury. Please refrain from using first and last names in file titles or responses to the prompt so jurors can remain unbiased. No applications will be accepted outside of Submittable.

Applicants must agree to all terms: drop off and pick up dates, photography release, and loan conditions.