Cyclorama: The Big Picture at Atlanta History Center

Cyclorama: The Big Picture is an ongoing multimedia experience centered on the fully restored Battle of Atlanta cyclorama painting. Standing 49 feet tall, stretching longer than a football field and weighing 10,000 pounds, the hand-painted work is one of only two cycloramas in the United States.

In the 1880s, cycloramas were immersive attractions that transported viewers into dramatic scenes, much like large-format cinematic experiences today. The Battle of Atlanta painting was designed to surround visitors with a three-dimensional illusion of the 1864 battle.

The exhibit also examines the painting’s own complicated history. Originally created from a Northern perspective as a heroic Union victory, the work was later altered and marketed differently after it arrived in Atlanta in 1892, reflecting shifting public memory and regional politics.

Today, visitors can explore both the Civil War battle depicted in the painting and the evolving story of the artifact itself.

Dates:Ongoing

Venue: Atlanta History Center

More Info: View exhibit details