ATLANTA CULTURE SHINES IN SHANNON MCCOLLUM’S NEW EXHIBIT ‘FOREVER I LOVE ATLANTA’ CURATED BY DIZZY DAIN
Forever I Love Atlanta, an evocative photography exhibit featuring the works of Atlanta-based photographer Shannon McCollum and curated by Dizzy Dain, is now open at the Callanwolde Fine Arts Center. The gallery opened on November 7 and will run through November 22. The opening drew over 400 attendees, with appearances by Pastor Troy, and Lil Yachty — McCollum’s son. Music for the night was provided by Missing Label Records which includes artist Radic By Nature, Machell Andre and BNNY.
McCollum is an Atlanta-based photographer who captured some of hip-hop’s biggest artists during their rise to fame, including Ludacris, Pastor Troy, T.I., Outkast, Notorious B.I.G., Lil Wayne and Killer Mike. He has also photographed public figures and cultural icons, such as Barack Obama, Nelson Mandela and more. Dizzy Dain is an artist, muralist, curator and creative director. Loving art from a young age, she began selling original oil paintings in her teenage years and later became a muralist. More recently, she has been curating art exhibits and focusing on creative direction.
The Rat attended the opening to learn more about how the exhibit came to be. In February of this year, Dizzy Dain and McCollum briefly met at Old Rabbit Gallery during the City of Ink’s 17th Anniversary exhibit. Although their conversation was interrupted, Shannon later reached out to continue it. Dizzy proposed curating an exhibit, to which Shannon replied he would be honored. Over the next 10 months, Dizzy visited Shannon’s home regularly, and together they sorted through thousands of photographs, hand-selecting images that best reflect Atlanta’s culture and history. Dizzy Dain also pulled in photographer James D. Love who helped scan the photos for the gallery’s promotion. The exhibit represents 35 years of history, with most of the featured photos unpublished until now.
Photos by Astrid Sims.
Shannon McCollum (left) and Dizzy Dain (right) pose for a photo at the opening of ‘Forever I Love Atlanta.’
McCollum poses for a photo with Dizzy Dain and Lil Yachty.
Musical artist Zoey Blunko stood out with bold accessories in red accents.
Nataki Minix, lifestyle influencer, fit the dress code with a stunning black, silk gown.
Shannon McCollum takes a photo with attendee Vincent McCant.
Donray Von (left), Founder of investment firm Castleberry & Co., poses for a photo in front of a collage with Shannon and another guest.
Dizzy Dain wore a stunning black and white-pleated gown.
Zel Millions, artist, holds up a photo card from The Rat.
Two guests enjoyed the party downstairs before heading up to the DJ set.
The Strange Content duo wore funky accesories including chunky bangles, squared frames and an artist hat.
Dizzy Dain and Quake Solo (right) pose for a photo in front of McCollum’s works.
The energy of opening night evoked community, opportunity and excitement.
Randy Harris, Tattoo-artist and long-time friend of McCollum came to show his support.
Guests posed for a quick photo before heading out into the gallery’s gardens.
Missing Label Records provided music for the night.
A table for merch was set-up inside the gallery.