Kendra Walker seeks to expand the reach of Essence, a thriving art community

When she founded Kendra Walker Atlanta Art WeekIts aim was to support artists and highlight the city’s cultural landscape. As it enters its third 12 months, it has grow to be a much-needed effort to bring together galleries, artists, collectors and art enthusiasts to promote education, economic development and art appreciation each locally and abroad. For this esteemed artistic advisor and author, looking back on the past week’s successes is vital, but it surely’s most vital that she looks forward so she will be able to proceed to evolve and thrive.

Although this significant event may occur in 2022, its founder began her artistic journey long before it took off. Walker’s introduction to art was unexpected, sparked by studies abroad that exposed her to some of the most prestigious institutions in Europe, including the Louvre and Tate Modern.

“Before this trip, I had no formal education or knowledge about the art space,” she recalls. “It was this trip as part of my formal art history training where I was first exposed to the art space.” This encounter, combined along with her art studies at Georgia State University and several other key internships, laid the foundation for a profession she describes as a “beautiful and unique” experience.

Atlanta Art Week was born out of Walker’s observations of the city’s growing artistic atmosphere. “I watched our ecosystems thrive and be so active,” she explains. Inspired to create a platform that might amplify contemporary art on a regional level, Walker’s vision was to establish a moment in time that might encourage travel, exposure and expansion for local and international artists. As a result, the event quickly grew in popularity since its inception, attracting over 2,000 ticket holders in its first 12 months.

Reflecting on the event’s early achievements, Forbes 30 under 30 Honoree appreciates the enthusiasm of the city’s artistic community. “I think it was able to thrive in the first year because of Atlanta’s readiness for something like this,” Walker tells ESSENCE. Without a large social media following, AAW relied largely on word of mouth and support from the local arts association.

As the event grows, so do the challenges. In the starting, Walker’s predominant focus was selling the idea of ​​Atlanta Art Week to participants and supporters. “You’re very much in grind mode. By the third year, the same type of sales presentation is no longer necessary.” Now he’s in a recent phase where reflection and development take precedence. “It’s definitely a different set of things that we’re thinking about and considering three things today compared to when we started,” he says.

One of the key facets of Walker’s work is her identity as a black woman in the arts. While she approaches her craft with professionalism, she is acutely aware of the role of race, gender and age in her experiences. “My passion is Black artists, BIPOC artists,” he says. “I naturally try to help open doors or create opportunities that I would want.” However, Walker is committed to inclusivity, ensuring that Atlanta Arts Week represents a wide selection of voices and perspectives.

Looking ahead, Walker anticipates AAW will proceed to grow over time, with an emphasis on expanded programming, modern exhibitions and more educational content. He hopes to involve more universities and even middle and high schools in the project. As she continues to construct on her child’s success, Walker’s commitment to cultivating Atlanta’s art scene and creating opportunities for artists stays at the heart of her mission.

“I think Atlanta Art Week has helped people from out of town, from all over the world, take time to explore together,” Walker says. “It also created an opportunity for the Atlanta arts community to really come together and really amplify all the amazing work that’s going on – now the world can see it.”