It is dedicated to the creation, presentation, and advancement of contemporary art by emerging and established artists.

Atlanta Contemporary presents multiple exhibitions per year featuring local and international artists, including commissioning new works.

In 1984, the name was changed to Nexus Contemporary Art Center to reflect the organization's mission and role in the community.

In 1987, seeking a permanent home, the board completed a $1.95 million capital campaign to renovate a 35,000 square-foot warehouse complex on Means Street near the Georgia Tech campus.

Atlanta Contemporary has a retail shop that specializes in artist-made and locally produced merchandise such as art books, including Nexus Press Books, exhibition catalogues, artist-made jewelry and artist multiples, as well as rare recordings.