Athens Institute for Contemporary Art

"The Athens Institute for Contemporary Art (ATHICA) in Athens, Georgia supports innovative, challenging contemporary artists through exhibits, events, and educational programming."

Recommended For

Art lovers
Experience cutting-edge exhibitions curated by emerging and established contemporary artists

Families & educators
Explore family-friendly programs, hands-on workshops, and Sunday afternoon art activities

Local creatives
Connect with fellow artists and participate in member shows and community exhibits

Curators & collectors
Discover new talent and acquire affordable, original pieces through annual exhibits

Exhibits & Programs

Quarterly Curated Exhibitions: Four major shows each year, curated by guest artists and curators from around the world
Member Exhibition: Annual December showcase highlighting works by ATHICA’s member artists
Juried Fall Exhibition: Now in its fourth year, this competitive show features selected works from a global call to artists
ATHICA Emerges: Annual exhibit spotlighting emerging talent from the Athens area
“Pin-Up” Show: Affordable art event with pieces starting at $20—buy and take home on the spot

Educational & Community Events

Workshops & Lectures: Engaging year-round programming for adults and children
Sunday Family Series: Includes Collage Club and other interactive activities for kids and families
Collaborative Events: Includes partnerships like the CURE benefit, in collaboration with the University of Georgia
ATHICA at Frontier: Off-site exhibitions hosted at Frontier, a downtown Athens shop

Gallery History

Founded in 2002 by Lizzie Zucker Saltz, ATHICA is Athens’ only dedicated contemporary art space. It operates out of a 2,200-square-foot space donated by FiveArt Inc. in the revitalized Chase Street Park Warehouses—once abandoned cotton storage buildings now central to the city’s creative revival.

ATHICA is an independent nonprofit, run entirely by volunteers and overseen by a board made up of local artists, art professionals, and supporters. It has received notable grants, including support from The Elizabeth Firestone Graham Foundation and The Andy Warhol Foundation for the Visual Arts.

Visitor Information

Address: 160 Tracy St. Unit 4, Athens, GA 30601
Phone: 706-389-5450
Website: athica.org

Insider Tip

Don’t miss the annual “Pin-Up” show—perfect for first-time collectors or art lovers looking for an affordable, one-of-a-kind piece. After your visit, explore the Chase Street Park Warehouses for cafes, artist studios, and more.