Poets Artists Madmen Online 1200





Poets, Artists & Madmen

As an entertainment writer, I’ve definitely had my share of doubts. I think to myself, “should I be covering politics, something the typical reader might consider more newsworthy?” But it is in this dark time of political discourse that covering the arts is more vital than ever. It is individualized thoughts and emotions that art provokes that keep viewers curious and grounded. It isn’t so much what is actually on the canvas, but the chance to start dialogue. This issue’s Poets, Artists, and Madmen are doing their thing to bring life to whitespace and ignite a conversational fire, and it is our hope that they will continue to set the tone for creative awareness through art made for the people, by the people.

— Lauren Leathers, Events Editor



Featured



Best Freedom Fighters BOA Award Winner

Year » 2018
Section » Print Features » Special Issue » Best of Atlanta » 2018 » Poets, Artists, & Madmen » Critics Pick
Liliana Bakhtiari
When thinking of an advocate, Liliana Bakhtiari embodies the definition. The Muslim daughter of Iranian immigrants, she has dedicated her life to helping those in Atlanta, and in other countries, looking for a better life. She’s raised money for Cambodian refugees and has traveled the world to gathermore...

When thinking of an advocate, Liliana Bakhtiari embodies the definition. The Muslim daughter of Iranian immigrants, she has dedicated her life to helping those in Atlanta, and in other countries, looking for a better life. She’s raised money for Cambodian refugees and has traveled the world to gather stories from survivors of genocide and sex trafficking. Once she returned to ATL, she resumed working with refugees, as well as becoming active in homeless outreach, local arts advocacy, and women’s health programs. In August she purchased a school bus to assist in community based projects and for living and working on the go. She’s also taking it a step further running for District 5 of Atlanta City Council.

Photo courtesy of Michael Schwarz

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Best Advocate for the Arts BOA Award Winner

Year » 2018
Section » Print Features » Special Issue » Best of Atlanta » 2018 » Poets, Artists, & Madmen » Critics Pick
Dianna Settles

Best Art Exhibit in a Gallery BOA Award Winner

Year » 2018
Section » Print Features » Special Issue » Best of Atlanta » 2018 » Poets, Artists, & Madmen » Critics Pick
Making Africa: A Continent of Contemporary Design
The exhibition offers a vision of Africa in the twenty-first century as a place of unbounded optimism, rapid growth, and massive cultural transformation and presents the continent as a hub of experimentation that generates innovative design approaches and solutions with worldwide relevance...more...

The exhibition offers a vision of Africa in the twenty-first century as a place of unbounded optimism, rapid growth, and massive cultural transformation and presents the continent as a hub of experimentation that generates innovative design approaches and solutions with worldwide relevance...

high.org

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Best Art Market BOA Award Winner

Year » 2018
Section » Print Features » Special Issue » Best of Atlanta » 2018 » Poets, Artists, & Madmen » Critics Pick
WonderRoot (Permanently Closed)

Best Atlanta Movie Heroes BOA Award Winner

Year » 2018
Section » Print Features » Special Issue » Best of Atlanta » 2018 » Poets, Artists, & Madmen » Critics Pick
The Women of Black Panther
The past year saw Atlanta enjoy being the preferred location for the Marvel Cinematic Universe with the success of Black Panther, Avengers: Infinity War and Ant-Man and the Wasp. Most inspiring of all the heroes were Black Panther’s supporting cast of females, including Danai Gurira’s proud warrior,more...
The past year saw Atlanta enjoy being the preferred location for the Marvel Cinematic Universe with the success of Black Panther, Avengers: Infinity War and Ant-Man and the Wasp. Most inspiring of all the heroes were Black Panther’s supporting cast of females, including Danai Gurira’s proud warrior, Lupita Nyong’o’s fearless activist, Letitia Wright’s witty inventor, and Angela Bassett’s royal mom, a group of women so strong, they upstaged the title character in his own movie. less...

Best Atlanta TV Heroes BOA Award Winner

Year » 2018
Section » Print Features » Special Issue » Best of Atlanta » 2018 » Poets, Artists, & Madmen » Critics Pick
Critic’s Pick (tie): The Fab Five, Queer Eye
The first two seasons of Netflix’s revival of Queer Eye were filmed in and around Atlanta, showcasing local restaurants like Chai Pani and the charms of Georgia’s small towns. The Fab Five (Antoni Porowski, Tan France, Karamo Brown, Bobby Berk, and Jonathan Van Ness) offer more than just makeoversmore...
The first two seasons of Netflix’s revival of Queer Eye were filmed in and around Atlanta, showcasing local restaurants like Chai Pani and the charms of Georgia’s small towns. The Fab Five (Antoni Porowski, Tan France, Karamo Brown, Bobby Berk, and Jonathan Van Ness) offer more than just makeovers and remodels, frequently forming bridges between communities and connecting to more than just straight guys. less...

Best Beer Festival BOA Award Winner

Year » 2018
Section » Print Features » Special Issue » Best of Atlanta » 2018 » Poets, Artists, & Madmen » Critics Pick
Dames and Dregs
This year, the Masquerade and Underground Atlanta hosted the inaugural Dames and Dregs Beer festival - a celebration of great beer and the often-overlooked contributions of local women who brew it. Events like these bring awareness to the inequality within our society, but also to the supportive communitiesmore...

This year, the Masquerade and Underground Atlanta hosted the inaugural Dames and Dregs Beer festival - a celebration of great beer and the often-overlooked contributions of local women who brew it. Events like these bring awareness to the inequality within our society, but also to the supportive communities within it. Cheers to a successful first year and many more to follow.

Photo Courtesy of Sam Holt

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Best Book by a Local Author BOA Award Winner

Year » 2018
Section » Print Features » Special Issue » Best of Atlanta » 2018 » Poets, Artists, & Madmen » Critics Pick
The Gray Bastards by Jonathan French

Best Book Event BOA Award Winner

Year » 2018
Section » Print Features » Special Issue » Best of Atlanta » 2018 » Poets, Artists, & Madmen » Critics Pick
AJC Decatur Book Festival

Best Bouncer BOA Award Winner

Year » 2018
Section » Print Features » Special Issue » Best of Atlanta » 2018 » Poets, Artists, & Madmen » Critics Pick
Sky Hi
You might not remember your fake wedding and may have browned out at the divorce party later at MJQ, but you’ll never forget Sky Hi. A familiar face in a weird world. Never leave us.

Best Burlesque Troupe BOA Award Winner

Year » 2018
Section » Print Features » Special Issue » Best of Atlanta » 2018 » Poets, Artists, & Madmen » Critics Pick
Royal Tee

Best Friend to the Animals BOA Award Winner

Year » 2018
Section » Print Features » Special Issue » Best of Atlanta » 2018 » Poets, Artists, & Madmen » Critics Pick
Java Cats Cafe (Permanently Closed)
The South Asian concept coffee shop offers a chance to play with foster kitties by the hour and adopt them through the Humane Society of Cobb County. Sipping on good coffee while earning feline affection and helping save cats - what’s not to love? The cozy coffee shop has expanded to a second locationmore...

The South Asian concept coffee shop offers a chance to play with foster kitties by the hour and adopt them through the Humane Society of Cobb County. Sipping on good coffee while earning feline affection and helping save cats - what’s not to love? The cozy coffee shop has expanded to a second location in Marietta, where they also plan to serve beer and wine.

Photo courtesy of Alex Patton

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Best Comedy Show BOA Award Winner

Year » 2018
Section » Print Features » Special Issue » Best of Atlanta » 2018 » Poets, Artists, & Madmen » Critics Pick
WonderComedy
Despite a change in venue, WonderComedy hasn’t missed a beat. The indie-scene staple consistently pumps out stellar shows featuring the best stand-up Atlanta and the rest of the country has to offer each month for an energetic and loyal audience that’s as comedy savvy as you’ll find anywhere. Withmore...
Despite a change in venue, WonderComedy hasn’t missed a beat. The indie-scene staple consistently pumps out stellar shows featuring the best stand-up Atlanta and the rest of the country has to offer each month for an energetic and loyal audience that’s as comedy savvy as you’ll find anywhere. With chill vibes and a helpful B.Y.O.B. policy, there’s no better place to gather for laughter and camaraderie than the third Friday of every month at WonderComedy. (Courtesy of Andrew Michael). less...

Best Dancer BOA Award Winner

Year » 2018
Section » Print Features » Special Issue » Best of Atlanta » 2018 » Poets, Artists, & Madmen » Critics Pick
Phae Monae

Best Local Director BOA Award Winner

Year » 2018
Section » Print Features » Special Issue » Best of Atlanta » 2018 » Poets, Artists, & Madmen » Critics Pick
Takashi Doscher
Writer and director Takashi Doscher evokes the mystique of the Appalachian Mountains in his quiet drama Still, in which a hiker becomes entwined in the lives of a mysterious couple (Lydia Wilson and Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D’s Nick Blood). Screening at the 2018 Atlanta Film Festival, Still captures a powerfulmore...
Writer and director Takashi Doscher evokes the mystique of the Appalachian Mountains in his quiet drama Still, in which a hiker becomes entwined in the lives of a mysterious couple (Lydia Wilson and Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D’s Nick Blood). Screening at the 2018 Atlanta Film Festival, Still captures a powerful sense of place amid a supernatural mystery on a low budget, leaving viewers curious to see what Doscher does next. less...

Best Alternative Art Space BOA Award Winner

Year » 2018
Section » Print Features » Special Issue » Best of Atlanta » 2018 » Poets, Artists, & Madmen » Critics Pick
The Bakery
Photo courtesy of The Bakery

Best Drag Queen BOA Award Winner

Year » 2018
Section » Print Features » Special Issue » Best of Atlanta » 2018 » Poets, Artists, & Madmen » Critics Pick
Brigitte Bidet
She is ah-mazing! Hysterical and talented, she is a comedian, dancer, and the next drag superstar to emerge from the Atlanta scene.

Best Dragtivist BOA Award Winner

Year » 2018
Section » Print Features » Special Issue » Best of Atlanta » 2018 » Poets, Artists, & Madmen » Critics Pick
Bentley Hudgins

Best experimental visual artist BOA Award Winner

Year » 2018
Section » Print Features » Special Issue » Best of Atlanta » 2018 » Poets, Artists, & Madmen » Critics Pick
Barry Brandon

Best Local Filmmaker Video Artist BOA Award Winner

Year » 2018
Section » Print Features » Special Issue » Best of Atlanta » 2018 » Poets, Artists, & Madmen » Critics Pick
Queer Moxie

Best Gallery BOA Award Winner

Year » 2018
Section » Print Features » Special Issue » Best of Atlanta » 2018 » Poets, Artists, & Madmen » Critics Pick
Notch 8 Gallery

Best Gallery Show/Art Exhibition BOA Award Winner

Year » 2018
Section » Print Features » Special Issue » Best of Atlanta » 2018 » Poets, Artists, & Madmen » Critics Pick
Ni Aqui Ni Alla at the Bakery

Best Gallery BOA Award Winner

Year » 2018
Section » Print Features » Special Issue » Best of Atlanta » 2018 » Poets, Artists, & Madmen » Critics Pick
The Mammal Gallery (Permanently Closed)
With rapid gentrification eating up Atlanta many of Atlanta’s mainstays, Mammal Gallery could’ve easily died after they lost their space in March. However, if we know anything about the city’s creative scene, it’s that life finds a way even in the darkest hour. Since relocating to their temporarymore...
With rapid gentrification eating up Atlanta many of Atlanta’s mainstays, Mammal Gallery could’ve easily died after they lost their space in March. However, if we know anything about the city’s creative scene, it’s that life finds a way even in the darkest hour. Since relocating to their temporary location on Mitchell Street, the Mammal crew have kept the dream alive with innovative and thought-provoking exhibitions that highlight the idiosyncrasy that lives under the Gold Dome. less...

Best Illustrator BOA Award Winner

Year » 2018
Section » Print Features » Special Issue » Best of Atlanta » 2018 » Poets, Artists, & Madmen » Critics Pick
Amanda Semler

Best Improv Group BOA Award Winner

Year » 2018
Section » Print Features » Special Issue » Best of Atlanta » 2018 » Poets, Artists, & Madmen » Critics Pick
Carlos Giron

Best Instagrammer BOA Award Winner

Year » 2018
Section » Print Features » Special Issue » Best of Atlanta » 2018 » Poets, Artists, & Madmen » Critics Pick
Evah Destruction

Best Library BOA Award Winner

Year » 2018
Section » Print Features » Special Issue » Best of Atlanta » 2018 » Poets, Artists, & Madmen » Critics Pick
Jimmy Carter Presidential Library and Museum (Featured)

Best Literary Event BOA Award Winner

Year » 2018
Section » Print Features » Special Issue » Best of Atlanta » 2018 » Poets, Artists, & Madmen » Critics Pick
AJC Decatur Book Festival

Best Local Actor BOA Award Winner

Year » 2018
Section » Print Features » Special Issue » Best of Atlanta » 2018 » Poets, Artists, & Madmen » Critics Pick
Heather McMahan
For anyone that’s had the pleasure of meeting Heather through The Law Ladies, you probably haven’t stopped laughing since. Wait until her mom signs into her Instagram live.

Best Local Athlete BOA Award Winner

Year » 2018
Section » Print Features » Special Issue » Best of Atlanta » 2018 » Poets, Artists, & Madmen » Critics Pick
Joseph Martinez
The way Atlanta sports go, you have to wonder if we deserve Josef Martinez and the entire team of Atlanta United. He’s a high-scoring treasure and we’re truly blessed he chose us.

Best Local Author BOA Award Winner

Year » 2018
Section » Print Features » Special Issue » Best of Atlanta » 2018 » Poets, Artists, & Madmen » Critics Pick
Mike Nemeth

Best Local Celebrity BOA Award Winner

Year » 2018
Section » Print Features » Special Issue » Best of Atlanta » 2018 » Poets, Artists, & Madmen » Critics Pick
Luis Sandoval
Luis Sandoval is a force, that’s why we asked him to participate in Best of Atlanta. Cheerful, generous, and inextricably linked to good times in Atlanta. He’s the type of person you want to hug every time you see him - and he?ll probably hug back!

Best Local Comedian BOA Award Winner

Year » 2018
Section » Print Features » Special Issue » Best of Atlanta » 2018 » Poets, Artists, & Madmen » Critics Pick
Dedrick Flynn
A comedian you love to watch, but hate to follow, Dedrick Flynn captures and firmly holds the room’s attention by bringing fiery passion and an airy playfulness to every set regardless of his surroundings.

Best Local Craft Market BOA Award Winner

Year » 2018
Section » Print Features » Special Issue » Best of Atlanta » 2018 » Poets, Artists, & Madmen » Critics Pick
Indie Craft Experience

Best Local Hero BOA Award Winner

Year » 2018
Section » Print Features » Special Issue » Best of Atlanta » 2018 » Poets, Artists, & Madmen » Critics Pick
Fabian “Occasional Superstar” Williams
Fabian Williams has a passion for art and expression. Last year, along with a few other local artists, he fought against city officials who attempted to exert control over murals being painted on private property. And he won. Williams is responsible for vibrant paintings like the fluorescent Hosea Williamsmore...
Fabian Williams has a passion for art and expression. Last year, along with a few other local artists, he fought against city officials who attempted to exert control over murals being painted on private property. And he won. Williams is responsible for vibrant paintings like the fluorescent Hosea Williams mural he painted last year on on the parking deck at Studioplex, and, most recently, the one of Stacey Abrams on the corner of Sister Louisa’s Church of the Living Room & Ping Pong Emporium - Come on in, Precious. But he likes to shake things up and tackle art of all mediums. “Atlanta should look how it feels,” he says. “Culture is reflected in the music, food, and now, the walls.” Whether it’s advocacy or creativity, Williams makes Atlanta a better place and for that, we?re thankful. less...

Best Local Play BOA Award Winner

Year » 2018
Section » Print Features » Special Issue » Best of Atlanta » 2018 » Poets, Artists, & Madmen » Critics Pick
Shakespeare on Draught

Best Local Playwright BOA Award Winner

Year » 2018
Section » Print Features » Special Issue » Best of Atlanta » 2018 » Poets, Artists, & Madmen » Critics Pick
Topher Payne

Best Local Playwright BOA Award Winner

Year » 2018
Section » Print Features » Special Issue » Best of Atlanta » 2018 » Poets, Artists, & Madmen » Critics Pick
Pearl Cleage

Best Local Podcast BOA Award Winner

Year » 2018
Section » Print Features » Special Issue » Best of Atlanta » 2018 » Poets, Artists, & Madmen » Critics Pick
ATL Podcast Matt Davis
Matt B. Davis tends to interview the familiar Atlanta names we love, while also introducing all new ATL faces worth discovering. Either way, there?s always the feeling of a little more Atlanta after listening. Give it a whirl!

Best Local Podcast BOA Award Winner

Year » 2018
Section » Print Features » Special Issue » Best of Atlanta » 2018 » Poets, Artists, & Madmen » Critics Pick
Atlanta Monster

Best Local Political Figure BOA Award Winner

Year » 2018
Section » Print Features » Special Issue » Best of Atlanta » 2018 » Poets, Artists, & Madmen » Critics Pick
Stacey Abrams
If there’s anything we learned from 2016, it’s don’t assume anything. And if we know anything about Stacey Abrams, it’s that she won’t give up without a fight. Previously serving as minority leader for the Georgia House, Abrams has run a tireless campaign for governor based on the issues, includingmore...
If there’s anything we learned from 2016, it’s don’t assume anything. And if we know anything about Stacey Abrams, it’s that she won’t give up without a fight. Previously serving as minority leader for the Georgia House, Abrams has run a tireless campaign for governor based on the issues, including the expansion of Medicaid, criminal justice reform, and affordable housing. As we stand on the precipice of change in our country, Abrams might be the surefire candidate that’ll lead us to an inclusive and equitable future that benefits all Georgians. less...

Best Local Sports Team BOA Award Winner

Year » 2018
Section » Print Features » Special Issue » Best of Atlanta » 2018 » Poets, Artists, & Madmen » Critics Pick
Atlanta United FC
Despite the giant silver Falcon emblazoning its doors, the golden spike symbolizes the true rulers of Mercedes-Benz stadium. Record-breaking strikers and homegrown phenoms immediately stirred up an intense fanbase that repeatedly breaks attendance records to rep the Five Stripes and King Peach. Josefmore...
Despite the giant silver Falcon emblazoning its doors, the golden spike symbolizes the true rulers of Mercedes-Benz stadium. Record-breaking strikers and homegrown phenoms immediately stirred up an intense fanbase that repeatedly breaks attendance records to rep the Five Stripes and King Peach. Josef Martinez, Miguel Almiron, and Co. not only ignite a fire and passion for soccer, they bring back a feeling of hope Atlanta sports has been missing for some time. less...

Best Local Sports Team BOA Award Winner

Year » 2018
Section » Print Features » Special Issue » Best of Atlanta » 2018 » Poets, Artists, & Madmen » Critics Pick
Atlanta United FC

Best Mural BOA Award Winner

Year » 2018
Section » Print Features » Special Issue » Best of Atlanta » 2018 » Poets, Artists, & Madmen » Critics Pick
The Keep by Sabek
With political discourse plunging deeper into negativity, it’s important to remember compassion and kindness. Though Spanish artist Sabek is not from ATL, what he left behind - a mural that spans seven stories and represents the mutual care between humans and nature - carries a huge (both in physicalmore...
With political discourse plunging deeper into negativity, it’s important to remember compassion and kindness. Though Spanish artist Sabek is not from ATL, what he left behind - a mural that spans seven stories and represents the mutual care between humans and nature - carries a huge (both in physical size and figurative thought) positive message for our city. Sabek’s work presents a constant reminder that care and kindness can extend beyond geography, species, or anything else. less...

Best Muralist BOA Award Winner

Year » 2018
Section » Print Features » Special Issue » Best of Atlanta » 2018 » Poets, Artists, & Madmen » Critics Pick
Sanithna Phansavanh
Sanithna Phansavanh came to Atlanta via Kansas City, MO, where he and his family lived through a refugee program after his mother escaped Laos. He’s created murals all over Atlanta incorporating ideas of growth, women as strong members of society, and perception. This year alone he completed threemore...

Sanithna Phansavanh came to Atlanta via Kansas City, MO, where he and his family lived through a refugee program after his mother escaped Laos. He’s created murals all over Atlanta incorporating ideas of growth, women as strong members of society, and perception. This year alone he completed three murals, all full of energy, bringing the streets of Atlanta to life with every brush stroke. Keep doing your thing, Sanithna. We?re thankful for your passion and talent.

Photo courtesy of Sanithna Phansavanh

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Best Museum BOA Award Winner

Year » 2018
Section » Print Features » Special Issue » Best of Atlanta » 2018 » Poets, Artists, & Madmen » Critics Pick
Federal Reserve Bank of Atlanta (Featured)

Best Museum Exhibition BOA Award Winner

Year » 2018
Section » Print Features » Special Issue » Best of Atlanta » 2018 » Poets, Artists, & Madmen » Critics Pick
Guo Pei: Couture Beyond at SCAD

2018 Critics Pick: Best Non-Profit DIY Leader BOA Award Winner

Year » 2018
Section » Print Features » Special Issue » Best of Atlanta » 2018 » Poets, Artists, & Madmen » Critics Pick
Southern Fried Queer Pride
Just the name makes your happy flag fly. Not to mention they do it all for queer arts advocacy. Be proud to be a queer creative in Atlanta, thanks to groups like Wussy and Southern Fried Queer Pride.

Best Local Singer/Songwriter BOA Award Winner

Year » 2018
Section » Print Features » Special Issue » Best of Atlanta » 2018 » Poets, Artists, & Madmen » Critics Pick
Adron
Before heading out West this year in the name of love, Adron left behind a treat for ATL - her latest record, Water Music. Perhaps because we’re struggling to define what is “real” in this time of social media and political discourse, there’s a great need for an artist like Adron, whose recordmore...

Before heading out West this year in the name of love, Adron left behind a treat for ATL - her latest record, Water Music. Perhaps because we’re struggling to define what is “real” in this time of social media and political discourse, there’s a great need for an artist like Adron, whose record grounds its listeners in reality while giving them the impetus to take on the world. Her shows are an intimate experience, as she explains in brutal honesty the meanings behind her songs. Water Music will continue her legacy of authenticity regardless of where she is. Thank you, Adron, for keepin’ it real.

Photo Courtesy of Charles Mitchell

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Best of ATL Celebrity BOA Award Winner

Year » 2018
Section » Print Features » Special Issue » Best of Atlanta » 2018 » Poets, Artists, & Madmen » Critics Pick
Cousin Dan
Cousin Dan has been pretending to be famous for years. And for this, we thank him. He is really just petitioning to play Shaky Knees, as he is quite the performer. Are you reading, Tim Sweetwood? Until then, catch him hosting Gaja Karaoke once a month.
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Best Advocate for the Arts BOA Award Winner

Year » 2018
Section » Print Features » Special Issue » Best of Atlanta » 2018 » Poets, Artists, & Madmen » Readers Pick
High Museum

Best Art Exhibit in a Gallery BOA Award Winner

Year » 2018
Section » Print Features » Special Issue » Best of Atlanta » 2018 » Poets, Artists, & Madmen » Readers Pick
Atlanta Beltline Inc (Featured)

Best Art Market BOA Award Winner

Year » 2018
Section » Print Features » Special Issue » Best of Atlanta » 2018 » Poets, Artists, & Madmen » Readers Pick
The Atlanta Dogwood Festival

Best Beer Festival BOA Award Winner

Year » 2018
Section » Print Features » Special Issue » Best of Atlanta » 2018 » Poets, Artists, & Madmen » Readers Pick
Decatur Beer Festival

Best Book by a Local Author BOA Award Winner

Year » 2018
Section » Print Features » Special Issue » Best of Atlanta » 2018 » Poets, Artists, & Madmen » Readers Pick
Chocolate Covered Honey Buns by Sean Fahie

Best Book Event BOA Award Winner

Year » 2018
Section » Print Features » Special Issue » Best of Atlanta » 2018 » Poets, Artists, & Madmen » Readers Pick
AJC Decatur Book Festival

Best Bouncer BOA Award Winner

Year » 2018
Section » Print Features » Special Issue » Best of Atlanta » 2018 » Poets, Artists, & Madmen » Readers Pick
Scott Schweitzer at Whiskey Blue

Best Burlesque Troupe BOA Award Winner

Year » 2018
Section » Print Features » Special Issue » Best of Atlanta » 2018 » Poets, Artists, & Madmen » Readers Pick
Lips

Best Comedy Show BOA Award Winner

Year » 2018
Section » Print Features » Special Issue » Best of Atlanta » 2018 » Poets, Artists, & Madmen » Readers Pick
Cineprov at The Plaza Theatre

Best Drag Queen BOA Award Winner

Year » 2018
Section » Print Features » Special Issue » Best of Atlanta » 2018 » Poets, Artists, & Madmen » Readers Pick
Phoenix

Best Gallery BOA Award Winner

Year » 2018
Section » Print Features » Special Issue » Best of Atlanta » 2018 » Poets, Artists, & Madmen » Readers Pick
High Museum of Art (Featured)

Best Gallery Show/Art Exhibition BOA Award Winner

Year » 2018
Section » Print Features » Special Issue » Best of Atlanta » 2018 » Poets, Artists, & Madmen » Readers Pick
Golden Hour at Oakland Cemetery

Best Improv Group BOA Award Winner

Year » 2018
Section » Print Features » Special Issue » Best of Atlanta » 2018 » Poets, Artists, & Madmen » Readers Pick
Dad’s Garage Theatre (Featured)

Best Instagrammer BOA Award Winner

Year » 2018
Section » Print Features » Special Issue » Best of Atlanta » 2018 » Poets, Artists, & Madmen » Readers Pick
atl_bucketlist

Best Library BOA Award Winner

Year » 2018
Section » Print Features » Special Issue » Best of Atlanta » 2018 » Poets, Artists, & Madmen » Readers Pick
Jimmy Carter Presidential Library and Museum (Featured)

Best Literary Event BOA Award Winner

Year » 2018
Section » Print Features » Special Issue » Best of Atlanta » 2018 » Poets, Artists, & Madmen » Readers Pick
AJC Decatur Book Festival

Best Local Actor BOA Award Winner

Year » 2018
Section » Print Features » Special Issue » Best of Atlanta » 2018 » Poets, Artists, & Madmen » Readers Pick
Allison Hastings

Best Local Athlete BOA Award Winner

Year » 2018
Section » Print Features » Special Issue » Best of Atlanta » 2018 » Poets, Artists, & Madmen » Readers Pick
Matt Ryan

Best Local Author BOA Award Winner

Year » 2018
Section » Print Features » Special Issue » Best of Atlanta » 2018 » Poets, Artists, & Madmen » Readers Pick
Emily Giffin

Best Local Celebrity BOA Award Winner

Year » 2018
Section » Print Features » Special Issue » Best of Atlanta » 2018 » Poets, Artists, & Madmen » Readers Pick
Donald Glover

Best Local Comedian BOA Award Winner

Year » 2018
Section » Print Features » Special Issue » Best of Atlanta » 2018 » Poets, Artists, & Madmen » Readers Pick
Lace Larabee

Best Local Craft Market BOA Award Winner

Year » 2018
Section » Print Features » Special Issue » Best of Atlanta » 2018 » Poets, Artists, & Madmen » Readers Pick
Inman Park Festival

Best Local Hero BOA Award Winner

Year » 2018
Section » Print Features » Special Issue » Best of Atlanta » 2018 » Poets, Artists, & Madmen » Readers Pick
Arthur Blank

Best Local Play BOA Award Winner

Year » 2018
Section » Print Features » Special Issue » Best of Atlanta » 2018 » Poets, Artists, & Madmen » Readers Pick
Black Nerd

Best Local Political Figure BOA Award Winner

Year » 2018
Section » Print Features » Special Issue » Best of Atlanta » 2018 » Poets, Artists, & Madmen » Readers Pick
John Lewis

Best Mural BOA Award Winner

Year » 2018
Section » Print Features » Special Issue » Best of Atlanta » 2018 » Poets, Artists, & Madmen » Readers Pick
Northside Hospital’s Lynn Teague Tribute by Ryan Coleman

Best Muralist BOA Award Winner

Year » 2018
Section » Print Features » Special Issue » Best of Atlanta » 2018 » Poets, Artists, & Madmen » Readers Pick
Occasional Superstar - Fabian Williams

Best Museum BOA Award Winner

Year » 2018
Section » Print Features » Special Issue » Best of Atlanta » 2018 » Poets, Artists, & Madmen » Readers Pick
National Center for Civil and Human Rights (Featured)

Best Museum Exhibition BOA Award Winner

Year » 2018
Section » Print Features » Special Issue » Best of Atlanta » 2018 » Poets, Artists, & Madmen » Readers Pick
Choze at Mason Fine Art

Best Photographer BOA Award Winner

Year » 2018
Section » Print Features » Special Issue » Best of Atlanta » 2018 » Poets, Artists, & Madmen » Readers Pick
Phyllis Iller

Best Place to Take the Kids BOA Award Winner

Year » 2018
Section » Print Features » Special Issue » Best of Atlanta » 2018 » Poets, Artists, & Madmen » Readers Pick
Fernbank Museum of Natural History (Featured)

Best Poet BOA Award Winner

Year » 2018
Section » Print Features » Special Issue » Best of Atlanta » 2018 » Poets, Artists, & Madmen » Readers Pick
Jessica Katoff

Best Public Art Event BOA Award Winner

Year » 2018
Section » Print Features » Special Issue » Best of Atlanta » 2018 » Poets, Artists, & Madmen » Readers Pick
Tree Haus Atl

Best Public Art/Artwork BOA Award Winner

Year » 2018
Section » Print Features » Special Issue » Best of Atlanta » 2018 » Poets, Artists, & Madmen » Readers Pick
Tiny Doors ATL

Best Radio Personality BOA Award Winner

Year » 2018
Section » Print Features » Special Issue » Best of Atlanta » 2018 » Poets, Artists, & Madmen » Readers Pick
Bert Weiss

Best Radio Station BOA Award Winner

Year » 2018
Section » Print Features » Special Issue » Best of Atlanta » 2018 » Poets, Artists, & Madmen » Readers Pick
WABE-FM (90.1)

Best Spoken Word BOA Award Winner

Year » 2018
Section » Print Features » Special Issue » Best of Atlanta » 2018 » Poets, Artists, & Madmen » Readers Pick
Queen of Sheba (Permanently Closed)

Best Street Art/Graffiti BOA Award Winner

Year » 2018
Section » Print Features » Special Issue » Best of Atlanta » 2018 » Poets, Artists, & Madmen » Readers Pick
Krog Street Tunnel

Best Street Character BOA Award Winner

Year » 2018
Section » Print Features » Special Issue » Best of Atlanta » 2018 » Poets, Artists, & Madmen » Readers Pick
(tie): ATL TVHead / Baton Bob

Best Stripper Other Than Blondie BOA Award Winner

Year » 2018
Section » Print Features » Special Issue » Best of Atlanta » 2018 » Poets, Artists, & Madmen » Readers Pick
Amnesia

Best Visual Artist BOA Award Winner

Year » 2018
Section » Print Features » Special Issue » Best of Atlanta » 2018 » Poets, Artists, & Madmen » Readers Pick
Fahamu Pecou

Best Freedom Fighters BOA Award Winner

Year » 2018
Section » Print Features » Special Issue » Best of Atlanta » 2018 » Poets, Artists, & Madmen » Critics Pick
Liliana Bakhtiari
When thinking of an advocate, Liliana Bakhtiari embodies the definition. The Muslim daughter of Iranian immigrants, she has dedicated her life to helping those in Atlanta, and in other countries, looking for a better life. She’s raised money for Cambodian refugees and has traveled the world to gathermore...

When thinking of an advocate, Liliana Bakhtiari embodies the definition. The Muslim daughter of Iranian immigrants, she has dedicated her life to helping those in Atlanta, and in other countries, looking for a better life. She’s raised money for Cambodian refugees and has traveled the world to gather stories from survivors of genocide and sex trafficking. Once she returned to ATL, she resumed working with refugees, as well as becoming active in homeless outreach, local arts advocacy, and women’s health programs. In August she purchased a school bus to assist in community based projects and for living and working on the go. She’s also taking it a step further running for District 5 of Atlanta City Council.

Photo courtesy of Michael Schwarz

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Best Advocate for the Arts BOA Award Winner

Year » 2018
Section » Print Features » Special Issue » Best of Atlanta » 2018 » Poets, Artists, & Madmen » Critics Pick
Dianna Settles

Best Advocate for the Arts BOA Award Winner

Year » 2018
Section » Print Features » Special Issue » Best of Atlanta » 2018 » Poets, Artists, & Madmen » Readers Pick
High Museum

Best Art Exhibit in a Gallery BOA Award Winner

Year » 2018
Section » Print Features » Special Issue » Best of Atlanta » 2018 » Poets, Artists, & Madmen » Critics Pick
Making Africa: A Continent of Contemporary Design
The exhibition offers a vision of Africa in the twenty-first century as a place of unbounded optimism, rapid growth, and massive cultural transformation and presents the continent as a hub of experimentation that generates innovative design approaches and solutions with worldwide relevance...more...

The exhibition offers a vision of Africa in the twenty-first century as a place of unbounded optimism, rapid growth, and massive cultural transformation and presents the continent as a hub of experimentation that generates innovative design approaches and solutions with worldwide relevance...

high.org

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Best Art Exhibit in a Gallery BOA Award Winner

Year » 2018
Section » Print Features » Special Issue » Best of Atlanta » 2018 » Poets, Artists, & Madmen » Readers Pick
Atlanta Beltline Inc (Featured)

Best Art Market BOA Award Winner

Year » 2018
Section » Print Features » Special Issue » Best of Atlanta » 2018 » Poets, Artists, & Madmen » Critics Pick
WonderRoot (Permanently Closed)

Best Art Market BOA Award Winner

Year » 2018
Section » Print Features » Special Issue » Best of Atlanta » 2018 » Poets, Artists, & Madmen » Readers Pick
The Atlanta Dogwood Festival

Best Atlanta Movie Heroes BOA Award Winner

Year » 2018
Section » Print Features » Special Issue » Best of Atlanta » 2018 » Poets, Artists, & Madmen » Critics Pick
The Women of Black Panther
The past year saw Atlanta enjoy being the preferred location for the Marvel Cinematic Universe with the success of Black Panther, Avengers: Infinity War and Ant-Man and the Wasp. Most inspiring of all the heroes were Black Panther’s supporting cast of females, including Danai Gurira’s proud warrior,more...
The past year saw Atlanta enjoy being the preferred location for the Marvel Cinematic Universe with the success of Black Panther, Avengers: Infinity War and Ant-Man and the Wasp. Most inspiring of all the heroes were Black Panther’s supporting cast of females, including Danai Gurira’s proud warrior, Lupita Nyong’o’s fearless activist, Letitia Wright’s witty inventor, and Angela Bassett’s royal mom, a group of women so strong, they upstaged the title character in his own movie. less...

Best Atlanta TV Heroes BOA Award Winner

Year » 2018
Section » Print Features » Special Issue » Best of Atlanta » 2018 » Poets, Artists, & Madmen » Critics Pick
Critic’s Pick (tie): The Fab Five, Queer Eye
The first two seasons of Netflix’s revival of Queer Eye were filmed in and around Atlanta, showcasing local restaurants like Chai Pani and the charms of Georgia’s small towns. The Fab Five (Antoni Porowski, Tan France, Karamo Brown, Bobby Berk, and Jonathan Van Ness) offer more than just makeoversmore...
The first two seasons of Netflix’s revival of Queer Eye were filmed in and around Atlanta, showcasing local restaurants like Chai Pani and the charms of Georgia’s small towns. The Fab Five (Antoni Porowski, Tan France, Karamo Brown, Bobby Berk, and Jonathan Van Ness) offer more than just makeovers and remodels, frequently forming bridges between communities and connecting to more than just straight guys. less...

Best Beer Festival BOA Award Winner

Year » 2018
Section » Print Features » Special Issue » Best of Atlanta » 2018 » Poets, Artists, & Madmen » Critics Pick
Dames and Dregs
This year, the Masquerade and Underground Atlanta hosted the inaugural Dames and Dregs Beer festival - a celebration of great beer and the often-overlooked contributions of local women who brew it. Events like these bring awareness to the inequality within our society, but also to the supportive communitiesmore...

This year, the Masquerade and Underground Atlanta hosted the inaugural Dames and Dregs Beer festival - a celebration of great beer and the often-overlooked contributions of local women who brew it. Events like these bring awareness to the inequality within our society, but also to the supportive communities within it. Cheers to a successful first year and many more to follow.

Photo Courtesy of Sam Holt

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Best Beer Festival BOA Award Winner

Year » 2018
Section » Print Features » Special Issue » Best of Atlanta » 2018 » Poets, Artists, & Madmen » Readers Pick
Decatur Beer Festival

Best Book by a Local Author BOA Award Winner

Year » 2018
Section » Print Features » Special Issue » Best of Atlanta » 2018 » Poets, Artists, & Madmen » Critics Pick
The Gray Bastards by Jonathan French

Best Book by a Local Author BOA Award Winner

Year » 2018
Section » Print Features » Special Issue » Best of Atlanta » 2018 » Poets, Artists, & Madmen » Readers Pick
Chocolate Covered Honey Buns by Sean Fahie

Best Book Event BOA Award Winner

Year » 2018
Section » Print Features » Special Issue » Best of Atlanta » 2018 » Poets, Artists, & Madmen » Critics Pick
AJC Decatur Book Festival

Best Book Event BOA Award Winner

Year » 2018
Section » Print Features » Special Issue » Best of Atlanta » 2018 » Poets, Artists, & Madmen » Readers Pick
AJC Decatur Book Festival

Best Bouncer BOA Award Winner

Year » 2018
Section » Print Features » Special Issue » Best of Atlanta » 2018 » Poets, Artists, & Madmen » Critics Pick
Sky Hi
You might not remember your fake wedding and may have browned out at the divorce party later at MJQ, but you’ll never forget Sky Hi. A familiar face in a weird world. Never leave us.

Best Bouncer BOA Award Winner

Year » 2018
Section » Print Features » Special Issue » Best of Atlanta » 2018 » Poets, Artists, & Madmen » Readers Pick
Scott Schweitzer at Whiskey Blue

Best Burlesque Troupe BOA Award Winner

Year » 2018
Section » Print Features » Special Issue » Best of Atlanta » 2018 » Poets, Artists, & Madmen » Critics Pick
Royal Tee

Best Burlesque Troupe BOA Award Winner

Year » 2018
Section » Print Features » Special Issue » Best of Atlanta » 2018 » Poets, Artists, & Madmen » Readers Pick
Lips

Best Friend to the Animals BOA Award Winner

Year » 2018
Section » Print Features » Special Issue » Best of Atlanta » 2018 » Poets, Artists, & Madmen » Critics Pick
Java Cats Cafe (Permanently Closed)
The South Asian concept coffee shop offers a chance to play with foster kitties by the hour and adopt them through the Humane Society of Cobb County. Sipping on good coffee while earning feline affection and helping save cats - what’s not to love? The cozy coffee shop has expanded to a second locationmore...

The South Asian concept coffee shop offers a chance to play with foster kitties by the hour and adopt them through the Humane Society of Cobb County. Sipping on good coffee while earning feline affection and helping save cats - what’s not to love? The cozy coffee shop has expanded to a second location in Marietta, where they also plan to serve beer and wine.

Photo courtesy of Alex Patton

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Best Comedy Show BOA Award Winner

Year » 2018
Section » Print Features » Special Issue » Best of Atlanta » 2018 » Poets, Artists, & Madmen » Critics Pick
WonderComedy
Despite a change in venue, WonderComedy hasn’t missed a beat. The indie-scene staple consistently pumps out stellar shows featuring the best stand-up Atlanta and the rest of the country has to offer each month for an energetic and loyal audience that’s as comedy savvy as you’ll find anywhere. Withmore...
Despite a change in venue, WonderComedy hasn’t missed a beat. The indie-scene staple consistently pumps out stellar shows featuring the best stand-up Atlanta and the rest of the country has to offer each month for an energetic and loyal audience that’s as comedy savvy as you’ll find anywhere. With chill vibes and a helpful B.Y.O.B. policy, there’s no better place to gather for laughter and camaraderie than the third Friday of every month at WonderComedy. (Courtesy of Andrew Michael). less...

Best Comedy Show BOA Award Winner

Year » 2018
Section » Print Features » Special Issue » Best of Atlanta » 2018 » Poets, Artists, & Madmen » Readers Pick
Cineprov at The Plaza Theatre

Best Dancer BOA Award Winner

Year » 2018
Section » Print Features » Special Issue » Best of Atlanta » 2018 » Poets, Artists, & Madmen » Critics Pick
Phae Monae

Best Local Director BOA Award Winner

Year » 2018
Section » Print Features » Special Issue » Best of Atlanta » 2018 » Poets, Artists, & Madmen » Critics Pick
Takashi Doscher
Writer and director Takashi Doscher evokes the mystique of the Appalachian Mountains in his quiet drama Still, in which a hiker becomes entwined in the lives of a mysterious couple (Lydia Wilson and Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D’s Nick Blood). Screening at the 2018 Atlanta Film Festival, Still captures a powerfulmore...
Writer and director Takashi Doscher evokes the mystique of the Appalachian Mountains in his quiet drama Still, in which a hiker becomes entwined in the lives of a mysterious couple (Lydia Wilson and Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D’s Nick Blood). Screening at the 2018 Atlanta Film Festival, Still captures a powerful sense of place amid a supernatural mystery on a low budget, leaving viewers curious to see what Doscher does next. less...

Best Alternative Art Space BOA Award Winner

Year » 2018
Section » Print Features » Special Issue » Best of Atlanta » 2018 » Poets, Artists, & Madmen » Critics Pick
The Bakery
Photo courtesy of The Bakery

Best Drag Queen BOA Award Winner

Year » 2018
Section » Print Features » Special Issue » Best of Atlanta » 2018 » Poets, Artists, & Madmen » Critics Pick
Brigitte Bidet
She is ah-mazing! Hysterical and talented, she is a comedian, dancer, and the next drag superstar to emerge from the Atlanta scene.

Best Drag Queen BOA Award Winner

Year » 2018
Section » Print Features » Special Issue » Best of Atlanta » 2018 » Poets, Artists, & Madmen » Readers Pick
Phoenix

Best Dragtivist BOA Award Winner

Year » 2018
Section » Print Features » Special Issue » Best of Atlanta » 2018 » Poets, Artists, & Madmen » Critics Pick
Bentley Hudgins

Best experimental visual artist BOA Award Winner

Year » 2018
Section » Print Features » Special Issue » Best of Atlanta » 2018 » Poets, Artists, & Madmen » Critics Pick
Barry Brandon

Best Local Filmmaker Video Artist BOA Award Winner

Year » 2018
Section » Print Features » Special Issue » Best of Atlanta » 2018 » Poets, Artists, & Madmen » Critics Pick
Queer Moxie

Best Gallery BOA Award Winner

Year » 2018
Section » Print Features » Special Issue » Best of Atlanta » 2018 » Poets, Artists, & Madmen » Critics Pick
Notch 8 Gallery

Best Gallery BOA Award Winner

Year » 2018
Section » Print Features » Special Issue » Best of Atlanta » 2018 » Poets, Artists, & Madmen » Readers Pick
High Museum of Art (Featured)

Best Gallery Show/Art Exhibition BOA Award Winner

Year » 2018
Section » Print Features » Special Issue » Best of Atlanta » 2018 » Poets, Artists, & Madmen » Critics Pick
Ni Aqui Ni Alla at the Bakery

Best Gallery Show/Art Exhibition BOA Award Winner

Year » 2018
Section » Print Features » Special Issue » Best of Atlanta » 2018 » Poets, Artists, & Madmen » Readers Pick
Golden Hour at Oakland Cemetery

Best Gallery BOA Award Winner

Year » 2018
Section » Print Features » Special Issue » Best of Atlanta » 2018 » Poets, Artists, & Madmen » Critics Pick
The Mammal Gallery (Permanently Closed)
With rapid gentrification eating up Atlanta many of Atlanta’s mainstays, Mammal Gallery could’ve easily died after they lost their space in March. However, if we know anything about the city’s creative scene, it’s that life finds a way even in the darkest hour. Since relocating to their temporarymore...
With rapid gentrification eating up Atlanta many of Atlanta’s mainstays, Mammal Gallery could’ve easily died after they lost their space in March. However, if we know anything about the city’s creative scene, it’s that life finds a way even in the darkest hour. Since relocating to their temporary location on Mitchell Street, the Mammal crew have kept the dream alive with innovative and thought-provoking exhibitions that highlight the idiosyncrasy that lives under the Gold Dome. less...

Best Illustrator BOA Award Winner

Year » 2018
Section » Print Features » Special Issue » Best of Atlanta » 2018 » Poets, Artists, & Madmen » Critics Pick
Amanda Semler

Best Improv Group BOA Award Winner

Year » 2018
Section » Print Features » Special Issue » Best of Atlanta » 2018 » Poets, Artists, & Madmen » Critics Pick
Carlos Giron

Best Improv Group BOA Award Winner

Year » 2018
Section » Print Features » Special Issue » Best of Atlanta » 2018 » Poets, Artists, & Madmen » Readers Pick
Dad’s Garage Theatre (Featured)

Best Instagrammer BOA Award Winner

Year » 2018
Section » Print Features » Special Issue » Best of Atlanta » 2018 » Poets, Artists, & Madmen » Critics Pick
Evah Destruction

Best Instagrammer BOA Award Winner

Year » 2018
Section » Print Features » Special Issue » Best of Atlanta » 2018 » Poets, Artists, & Madmen » Readers Pick
atl_bucketlist

Best Library BOA Award Winner

Year » 2018
Section » Print Features » Special Issue » Best of Atlanta » 2018 » Poets, Artists, & Madmen » Readers Pick
Jimmy Carter Presidential Library and Museum (Featured)

Best Library BOA Award Winner

Year » 2018
Section » Print Features » Special Issue » Best of Atlanta » 2018 » Poets, Artists, & Madmen » Critics Pick
Jimmy Carter Presidential Library and Museum (Featured)

Best Literary Event BOA Award Winner

Year » 2018
Section » Print Features » Special Issue » Best of Atlanta » 2018 » Poets, Artists, & Madmen » Readers Pick
AJC Decatur Book Festival

Best Literary Event BOA Award Winner

Year » 2018
Section » Print Features » Special Issue » Best of Atlanta » 2018 » Poets, Artists, & Madmen » Critics Pick
AJC Decatur Book Festival

Best Local Actor BOA Award Winner

Year » 2018
Section » Print Features » Special Issue » Best of Atlanta » 2018 » Poets, Artists, & Madmen » Critics Pick
Heather McMahan
For anyone that’s had the pleasure of meeting Heather through The Law Ladies, you probably haven’t stopped laughing since. Wait until her mom signs into her Instagram live.

Best Local Actor BOA Award Winner

Year » 2018
Section » Print Features » Special Issue » Best of Atlanta » 2018 » Poets, Artists, & Madmen » Readers Pick
Allison Hastings

Best Local Athlete BOA Award Winner

Year » 2018
Section » Print Features » Special Issue » Best of Atlanta » 2018 » Poets, Artists, & Madmen » Critics Pick
Joseph Martinez
The way Atlanta sports go, you have to wonder if we deserve Josef Martinez and the entire team of Atlanta United. He’s a high-scoring treasure and we’re truly blessed he chose us.

Best Local Athlete BOA Award Winner

Year » 2018
Section » Print Features » Special Issue » Best of Atlanta » 2018 » Poets, Artists, & Madmen » Readers Pick
Matt Ryan

Best Local Author BOA Award Winner

Year » 2018
Section » Print Features » Special Issue » Best of Atlanta » 2018 » Poets, Artists, & Madmen » Critics Pick
Mike Nemeth

Best Local Author BOA Award Winner

Year » 2018
Section » Print Features » Special Issue » Best of Atlanta » 2018 » Poets, Artists, & Madmen » Readers Pick
Emily Giffin

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