Secret Walls live art battle showcases Atlanta’s art scene
The Secret Walls live art battle, “The Art Of Competition” tour is the culmination of Atlanta’s Outerspace Project- chaotic, unbound, and a thrill all in the best ways possible, hosted in Atlanta’s ABV art gallery. You could not move in the 8,500 square foot, as people were packed shoulder to shoulder in the gallery space.
The Art Of Competition- originated in the United Kingdom and is the brainchild of Secret Walls founder Terry Guy. The week-long Outerspace Project features a series of mural installations throughout Atlanta, culminating in the high-energy showdown. Nate Frost, Gallery Director at ABV Gallery and an organizer of the event, described the experience as “a sporting event for the arts.” The competition tasked eight artists, divided into two teams, to create large-scale murals using only black ink on white canvases—without pre-sketching or erasing. “The energy is incredible,” Frost said. “It’s inspiring to see artists from diverse backgrounds collaborate to create something cohesive.”
Host Ché Anderson, a long-time Secret Walls veteran, brought his energy to the event. Hailing from Worcester, Massachusetts, Anderson has been part of the Secret Walls family for over a decade. “Whether you’re an artist or just a fan, tonight is about bringing everyone together,” Anderson said. He emphasized the event’s ability to connect individuals, foster community, and inspire creativity.
The lineup of artists included Atlanta locals such as George F. Baker III, FRKO, and Drew Borders, attended by other talents like Hiero Vega. A muralist for Monster Energy, Vega described Atlanta’s art scene as “beautiful, diverse, and welcoming.” Known for his monochromatic fluorescent style, Vega believes in the togetherness that events like Secret Walls brings, “We’re making connections, learning from each other, and creating a space for everyone to appreciate creativity,” he said. Vega also acknowledged the significance of introducing new audiences to art. “It’s about making new fans of art and showing people how it can connect us.”
For 90 minutes, the artists transformed blank canvases into striking visuals, captivating the audience with their talent and teamwork. Judges used a decibel meter to gauge audience reactions and determine the winning team, ensuring fans played an active role in the event. Participants and spectators mingled freely, creating a welcoming atmosphere that encouraged collaboration and dialogue.
Greg Mike, ABV owner, spoke to The Atlanta Voice during the opening of the gallery in September of 2024 spoke to the goal of ABV, “I’ve always been big on community. That’s why we do tons of murals all over the city and invest money into art in our city,” said Greg.
As the night came to a close, the energy remained electric, “This is what art is all about,” Vega remarked. “Bringing people together and creating something meaningful.”
