Forward Arts Foundation

About This Business

The Forward Arts Foundation is a non-profit organization founded on September 21, 1965, by twelve visionary and community-minded Atlanta women. The foundation is headquartered in the carriage house of the Edward Inman estate, known as the Swan House, located on the grounds of the Atlanta History Center. This historic building, a masterpiece of Atlanta's renowned architect Phillip Trammell Shutze, was renovated by the foundation to create a restaurant, gift shop, and art gallery, which opened in 1967. Through the management of these entities, along with revenues from annual events such as a fall Flea Market, a holiday Fashion Show, and the Swan's Palette Cookbook, the Forward Arts Foundation fosters and supports the visual arts in Atlanta. The foundation's Community Grants Program has benefited several notable institutions, including the High Museum of Art, the Atlanta History Center, the Michael C. Carlos Museum, and the Atlanta Contemporary Art Center. In 1999, the Forward Arts Foundation established the Edge Award, which recognizes an emerging artist in the greater Atlanta community with a cash prize, a two-week residency at the Hambidge Center, and a solo exhibition at the Swan Coach House Gallery. The foundation's commitment to promoting the arts and preserving Atlanta's history is evident in its various initiatives and programs. With its rich history, stunning architecture, and dedication to the arts, the Forward Arts Foundation is a unique and valuable resource for the Atlanta community. The foundation's story is one of vision, perseverance, and a passion for the arts, and its impact on the city's cultural landscape is undeniable. As a hub for artistic expression and historical preservation, the Forward Arts Foundation continues to inspire and educate audiences, solidifying its position as a leading cultural institution in Atlanta. The foundation's programs and events, such as the Edge Award and the annual Flea Market, provide opportunities for artists to showcase their work, for the community to engage with the arts, and for the city's history to be preserved and celebrated. Through its efforts, the Forward Arts Foundation has become an integral part of Atlanta's cultural fabric, and its contributions to the city's artistic and historical heritage are immeasurable.