6 Standouts From the Atlanta Art Fair

Curtis Patterson, A Notable Journey

The second edition of the Atlanta Art Fair was once again held at Pullman Yards and built off the momentum of its inaugural edition last year, welcoming more than 60 exhibitors and north of 12,000 visitors over the course of its four-day run. Positioned as a cultural catalyst for both the city and region, gallery exhibitors included hailed from both local and international art scenes, and a wide-ranging series of public programming—from panels and talks to site-specific installations and performances—offered a new dimension to the art fair model.

For the 2025 edition, longtime art world professional Melissa Messina was invited to guest curate a special presentation.

“As Guest Curator of this year’s Atlanta Art Fairs,” said Messina, “I had the pleasure of presenting ‘Third Ear, Second Skin,’ a presentation of sculptural installations by Krista Clark, Sonya Yong James, and Vadis Turner—three Southeastern-based artists whose materially driven practices explore embodiment through abstraction. While installing my own project, I spent time exploring the galleries, discovering new work, and reconnecting with artists whose practices continue to inspire me.”

Below, Messina rounds up her highlights from the fair.

Curtis Patterson at Laney Contemporary (Savannah)

With a sharp focus on contemporary art and talent from the South, Laney Contemporary presented four artists who are either from or based in the state of Georgia, reflecting a range of medium engagement. Paintings by Will Penny and Betsy Cain, photography by Ansley West Rivers, and sculpture by Curtis Patterson were on view and offered insight into the creative range present in the region.

“It was a joy to see Patterson’s work included. My former professor at the Atlanta College of Art, he has been creating stellar sculptures for decades and deserves much broader recognition.”

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