Museum of Contemporary Art of Georgia

Introduction: The Museum of Contemporary Art of Georgia—History and Significance

Nestled in the heart of Atlanta, the Museum of Contemporary Art of Georgia (MOCA GA) stands as a beacon for contemporary art, dedicated exclusively to artists living and working in Georgia. Founded in 2002, MOCA GA’s mission is to collect, archive, and exhibit significant works by Georgia artists, preserving the state’s unique artistic heritage. Since its inception with a modest 250-piece collection, the museum has expanded to over 1,300 works, underscoring its role as a dynamic cultural institution within Atlanta’s arts landscape.

MOCA GA is renowned for its immersive exhibitions, community engagement, and commitment to accessibility. With an array of solo and group shows, thematic installations, and special projects such as the annual SPARK festival, the museum is both a launching pad for emerging talent and a showcase for established artists. Educational programs, artist talks, and workshops foster public engagement, making contemporary art accessible and relevant to diverse audiences.

Conveniently located at 75 Bennett Street NW in Atlanta’s Midtown, MOCA GA is accessible by car, public transit, and bicycle. The museum offers wheelchair access, free Wi-Fi, and a welcoming atmosphere, with affordable admission rates and free entry for children under 12 and members. Whether you are a seasoned art lover or a curious newcomer, MOCA GA promises a meaningful encounter with Georgia’s contemporary art scene.

For the latest updates, visiting hours, and ticketing information, consult the MOCA GA Exhibitions & Events page and related resources (ArtsGA).

MOCA GA Visiting Hours and Tickets

Hours of Operation:

• Tuesday to Sunday: 11:00 AM – 5:00 PM
• Closed Mondays and major holidays

Admission:

• Adults: $10
• Seniors (65+): $7
• Students (with valid ID): $5
• Children under 12: Free
• Members: Free

Tickets:
Tickets can be purchased online via the MOCA GA website or at the museum entrance, subject to availability. Group visits (10 or more) are encouraged to book in advance.

Planning Your Visit: Location, Parking, and Accessibility

Address:
75 Bennett Street NW, Suite M-1, Atlanta, GA 30309

Getting There:

• By Car: Ample parking available in the Bennett Street area (fees may apply)
• By Public Transit: Accessible via MARTA (North Avenue Station with a short bus/rideshare connection)
• By Bicycle: Bike-friendly area with racks nearby

Parking:

• On-site parking lot with hourly rates
• Street parking (limited during peak hours; ride-sharing is recommended)

Accessibility:

• Wheelchair accessible entrances and restrooms
• Service animals permitted
• Assistive listening devices available for tours/talks
• Contact the museum in advance for specific accommodations

Permanent Collection and Exhibitions

MOCA GA’s permanent collection encompasses over 1,300 works by more than 110 Georgia artists, reflecting the diversity and evolution of the state’s contemporary art scene (Explore Georgia). The museum presents 10–15 exhibitions annually, including:

• Solo and Group Shows: Spotlighting both emerging and established Georgia artists
• Thematic Installations: Exploring cultural and conceptual topics
• Signature Programs: Such as the Working Artist Project (WAP), which offers fellowships, solo exhibitions, and mentorship for three selected artists each year (Discover WAP)

Current & Upcoming Exhibitions:

• Celebration: The Past Forward (Selected Acquisitions 2002–2012) (April 5 – June 7, 2025): Revisiting key works that shaped the museum’s identity (Learn more)
• SPARK (February 15 – March 22, 2025): Showcasing emerging artists and community engagement
• Sergio Suarez: Traces of an Unseen Fire (2024/2025 Working Artist Project): Exploring memory and transformation (More info)

For a complete exhibition schedule, visit the MOCA GA website.

Educational and Community Programs

MOCA GA supports learning and artistic exchange through robust educational initiatives:

• Artist Resource Council: Provides professional development and networking for Georgia artists (New Georgia Encyclopedia)
• ShedSpace: Public art installations expanding access to contemporary art
• Education and Resource Center (E/RC): Houses archives, artist files, and research materials for students and scholars
• Public Programs: Artist/curator talks, panel discussions, symposia, and guided tours
• Workshops and Classes: Led by artists and educators for all ages and skill levels
• School and Youth Engagement: Curriculum-aligned tours and interactive learning experiences
• Membership Benefits: Free event admission, workshop discounts, and exclusive program access
• Community Partnerships: Collaborative projects with other institutions, universities, and organizations
• Digital Resources: Online artist profiles, exhibition catalogs, and virtual tours

Notable past programs include Color, Culture, Complexity (exploring race relations in art) and Film/Video: Georgia (media arts education).

Visitor Experience and Amenities

• Amenities:
  • Free Wi-Fi
  • Restrooms and seating areas
  • Light refreshments at select programs (signature goldfish crackers)
• Photography:
  • Non-flash photography permitted for personal use in most areas (check for restrictions per exhibition)
• Gift Shop:
  • Inquire at the front desk or check the museum’s website for art books, catalogs, and locally crafted souvenirs

Nearby Attractions and Dining

MOCA GA’s Midtown location provides easy access to Atlanta’s premier cultural and historical sites:

• High Museum of Art
• Atlanta Contemporary Art Center
• Martin Luther King Jr. National Historical Park
• Museum of Design Atlanta (MODA)
• Atlanta Botanical Garden
• Ponce City Market
• Local Galleries: September Gray Fine Art Gallery, The Photographers Studio

Dining:
West Midtown offers acclaimed restaurants such as The Optimist (seafood), West Egg Cafe (Southern comfort), and JCT Kitchen (modern Southern fare).

For more on local attractions, see (Explore Georgia) and (MapQuest).

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: What are MOCA GA’s opening hours?
A: Tuesday to Sunday, 11:00 AM to 5:00 PM; closed Mondays and major holidays.

Q: How much do tickets cost?
A: Adults $10, seniors $7, students $5, children under 12 and members free.

Q: Is MOCA GA wheelchair accessible?
A: Yes, including restrooms and service animal access.

Q: Are guided tours available?
A: Yes, bookable in advance via the museum’s website.

Q: Can I take photographs inside MOCA GA?
A: Non-flash photography is allowed in designated areas unless otherwise noted.

Q: Is MOCA GA family-friendly?
A: Yes, with free admission for children under 12 and family-oriented programming.

Q: Is there parking?
A: Yes, on-site and nearby parking available; carpooling recommended during busy times.