The Art on the Atlanta BeltLine presents the ATL Park Jam, a one-day celebration of Atlanta's influence on hip-hop culture. Curated in collaboration with RAPPORT, the event will take place on August 12, 2023, at Adair Park II. The timing of the event is significant, marking 50 years since hip-hop's inception on August 11, 1973.

The ATL Park Jam promises a dynamic blend of live music, interactive art, dance battles, and culinary delights, creating an experience that appeals to attendees of all ages. Hosted by emcee Mike Sick, the event boasts a lineup of activities that pay homage to the diverse and influential aspects of hip-hop culture. Highlights of the event include:

• Live Aerosol Art: Presented by Atlanta Style Writers and Cole One, this curated display of aerosol art captures the vibrant spirit of hip-hop's visual aesthetic.
• Old School to New School Dance Battle: Hosted by Innerflow Studios and RedBull BC One champion Leo RA Soul, this dance battle celebrates the evolution of hip-hop dance styles.
• Live DJ Set by DJ Jelly: Atlanta Hip-Hop Pioneer DJ Jelly will take the stage, spinning tracks that showcase the evolution of hip-hop's sound.
• Xclusive Percussion HBCU Drumline: This lively drumline performance pays tribute to the historical role of rhythm in hip-hop.
• Freestyle Rap Sessions by Soul Food Cypher: Engaging and interactive, these freestyle rap sessions invite attendees to participate in the creative expression of hip-hop's lyrical artistry.
• "Rolling In the Lab with DJ Nabs" Open Skate Session: DJ Nabs sets the tone for an open skate session, merging the culture of hip-hop with the nostalgia of roller skating.
• Women’s-Only Rap Cypher: Presented by Pendulum Ink and Mickey Factz, this cypher highlights the prowess of women in hip-hop, celebrating their contributions to the genre.
• Cultural Catalyst Awards: Honoring the James Brown Estate and the "Mother of Rap" Millie Jackson, these awards recognize the indelible impact of these individuals on hip-hop and its culture.
• Rum Punch Brunch with DJ Prince Charm: A brunch experience accompanied by the rhythmic beats of DJ Prince Charm.

In addition to these engaging activities, the ATL Park Jam will feature food trucks and a craft market, offering attendees a chance to indulge in culinary delights and explore unique creations.

The event is scheduled to take place at Adair Park II, located at 820 Murphy Ave SW, Atlanta, GA 30310. The festivities will kick off at noon and continue until 8 p.m. The highlights of the event include a Sick on Skate Crew Skate Demo at 1:00 p.m., an HBCU-style Drumline performance with Xclusive Percussion + Soul Food Cypher at 3:00 p.m., a dance battle judged by BeltLine CEO Clyde Higgs at 5:00 p.m., and the Cultural Catalyst Awards at 6:30 p.m.

The ATL Park Jam is not just a celebration of hip-hop's 50th anniversary; it's also a testament to Atlanta's dynamic cultural landscape. The event marks the kickoff of Art on the Atlanta BeltLine's 13th season and showcases the intersection of creativity, innovation, and public spaces. For more than four decades, Atlanta has continuously redefined music, contributing to the evolution of hip-hop culture on a global scale. The ATL Park Jam not only honors the past and present of Atlanta's hip-hop legacy but also emphasizes the city's commitment to sustainability, culture, and community.

Miranda Kyle, Arts & Culture Program Manager at Atlanta BeltLine, shared her perspective on the significance of the event, stating, "This season of arts and culture programming on the BeltLine is the culmination of years of collaboration, relationship building, and sincere investment into the visionary creators of this City, past and present. We honor the legacy of musical greatness Atlanta has cultivated by elevating and supporting its inheritors. It is an honor to be able to support the work RAPPORT is doing."

Alex Acosta, representing RAPPORT, expressed the excitement surrounding the event, stating, "We're extremely excited to present ATL Park Jam: a truly unique event that highlights and celebrates the myriad of ways Georgia and the City of Atlanta have been integral to Hip-Hop as we celebrate the culture's 50th anniversary. From the Bankhead bounce to the latest Tik-Tok dance craze, it is undeniable that Atlanta remains influential to Hip-Hop culture. This Park Jam is a special moment that brings all the homegrown elements together and honors the Georgia-born Architects of our culture. Part homecoming and part cookout, but all flavor - there's something for everyone at ATL Park Jam."

For more details about the ATL Park Jam, including the full schedule of events, visit atlparkjam.com.

The 2023 Art on the Atlanta BeltLine exhibition is proudly presented by Northside Hospital, with additional support from sponsors including Ponce City Market at the Platinum level, Delta at the Gold level, Cox Enterprises and Empire Communities at the Silver level, and Children's Healthcare of Atlanta at the Bronze level. The event receives backing from the City of Atlanta Mayor's Office of Cultural Affairs and the Fulton County Board of Commissioners. The event also receives support from the Georgia Council for the Arts and the National Endowment for the Arts.

Art on the Atlanta BeltLine is a monumental public art exhibition that spans the Atlanta BeltLine corridor, showcasing the works of numerous visual artists, performers, and musicians. This immersive project highlights the intersections between established professionals and emerging artists, inviting both residents and visitors to explore the city's unique spaces. By celebrating art's role in revitalizing industrial areas, the exhibition contributes to the city's transformation through the Atlanta BeltLine. Touching nearly 20 intown communities, the exhibition creates a captivating narrative of Atlanta's neighborhoods. Stay informed about Art on the Atlanta BeltLine announcements and events at art.beltline.org or follow @atlantabeltline on social media with #beltlineart.

Atlanta BeltLine, Inc. envisions Atlanta as a global exemplar of equitable, inclusive, and sustainable city life. With one of the most comprehensive urban redevelopment initiatives in the United States, Atlanta BeltLine strives to cultivate a more resilient city through partnerships and community involvement. The program focuses on job creation, affordable housing, inclusive transportation systems, and public spaces that serve the entire community. For more information about Atlanta BeltLine, please visit www.BeltLine.org.