Lauren Haynes announced as new Executive Director of Atlanta Contemporary

Atlanta Contemporary announced that acclaimed curator Lauren Haynes will step into the role of executive director on March 16, 2026. Following Floyd Hall’s departure from the role in August of 2025, the institute’s board of directors brought on interim Executive Director Everett Long to maintain its ongoing programming while simultaneously seeking out the ideal person to step into this crucial role. And they have found it in Haynes.

Haynes’ appointment brings an infusion of optimism and hope for one of Atlanta’s premier contemporary arts institutions during a particularly momentous instance of growth. “Lauren’s exceptional track record of curating transformative exhibitions while building institutional capacity makes her the ideal leader for this moment,” said Amanda Rhein, acting board chair of the Atlanta Contemporary in a statement. “Her ability to champion artists, expand community partnerships and advance organizational sustainability aligns perfectly with the goals outlined in our Strategic Plan. We are thrilled to welcome her leadership.”

She brings extensive experience to the role, informed by her past leadership positions at institutions such as the Studio Museum in Harlem, the Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art and its contemporary arts space The Momentary, the Queens Museum and most recently Governors Island Arts, where she served as vice president of arts & culture and head curator at the The Trust for Governors Island. In this most recent role, she was instrumental in the development and implementation of cultural programming as well as public art projects. President and CEO of the Trust for Governors Island, Clare Newman, shared her enthusiasm for Haynes’ new position at the Atlanta Contemporary, highlighting her leadership skills and her unique ability to build engaging cultural experiences for a broad audience. “We can’t wait to see all she accomplishes in Atlanta,” said Newman.

With Haynes at the helm, the Atlanta Contemporary seeks to expand upon its impact of exhibitions and programs, increase support for artists and ensure that its programming remains accessible and welcoming for all. This is all part of the institute’s comprehensive 2025-2028 Strategic Plan, which launched on September 23, 2025. In the plan, the Atlanta Contemporary commits to remain artist-centered, to reconnect with local, regional and global audiences, to thoughtfully and purposefully enhance operations and staffing and to remain committed to accessibility as exemplified by its Free Admission Forever policy, which celebrated its 10-year anniversary last year.

In a statement on the Atlanta Contemporary website, Haynes highlighted her aspirations and excitement surrounding her new role. “I am deeply honored to return to Atlanta and lead Atlanta Contemporary at this transformative moment,” said Haynes. “One of my earliest experiences in the arts began here as an undergraduate summer intern at City Gallery East, and that formative experience continues to shape my commitment to accessibility and community-driven programming.”

“Atlanta Contemporary’s dedication to championing artists, fostering creative experimentation and ensuring that diverse perspectives are represented resonates strongly with my own values and practice,” Haynes continued. “I am excited to work alongside the talented staff, board and extended community to advance the organization’s mission, expand its impact and create meaningful connections between artists and audiences across Atlanta and beyond.”

Photo by Claudia Lucia