Courtney Brooks is the founder and owner of CBROOKS Gallery. (Photo by Melissa Alexander)
In this series, ArtsATL asks a member of the Atlanta arts community to share 11 things on their mind. We hope you enjoy getting to know these people better.
::
Courtney Brooks wears many hats. She’s a multidisciplinary artist, a curator, a muralist and now a gallerist. She opened CBROOKS Gallery on June 12 following a decade of experience serving as artistic director and curator for more than 20 solo and group exhibitions throughout Atlanta.
Here, in no particular order, are her 11 good things:
1. God – because God is good all the time and all the time God is good. I am going to pray and give praise the Most High. My faith allows me to stay in gratitude, share love and have peace during the ebbs and flows of life.
2. CBROOKS Gallery – I am overwhelmed with joy that I have become a gallery owner! Located at The Upton, the inaugural group exhibition kNOw Regrets is on display through August 2025 and features 22 Atlanta artists! The love and support from my community is truly inspiring.
3. FaceTime – My sister Shannon, who lives in Denver, is the only one I regularly call on FaceTime. It feels good to see her face and to laugh and watch whatever random TV shows or movie she has playing in the background.
4. High Bias Listening Sessions – Powered by Controllerise, when I can make it out to block & drum on a Wednesday night, I enjoy the chill vibes and vinyl sounds curated by Stlndrms and DJ Empress Rah.
5. My Balcony – I recently completed a pool mural at my artist residency, and looking over and seeing my work from above, hearing people laughing and splashing, watching the sun dance across the sky, watching the rain fall or just simply sitting out there in the middle of the night is pure bliss for me.
6. Atlanta Contemporary – Curated by the executive director, Floyd Hall, my Journey of a Black Girl installation This Crown Belongs to Us is located in the Secret Garden and will be on display through February 2026. It has been a pleasure being a part of the space alongside some great artists exhibitions, activations and events like Artful ATL, featuring Phyllis Iller’s portrait booth!
7. Cucumbers – my go-to snack. I slightly peel them, slice and add black pepper, adobo seasoning and a little ranch dressing. I eat this a few times a day.
8. DRES Tha BEATnik – as a creative who loves hip-hop, I am happy I was able to know him and see him perform throughout Atlanta, especially at MJQ, A3C and at Art, Beats + Lyrics over the years. To witness his impact in multiple communities, share his truths, receive his flowers and love on his daughter — I give thanks for his presence. May he rest in peace, power and love. #followthehat
9. French 75 – I usually like a good old-fashioned with extra cherries (must be the dark cherries), but, when Esohe Galbreath introduced me to a French 75, I felt fancy. It is a light, more refreshing option when I want to enjoy a cute cocktail.
10. Coconut Oil – I love using it as a moisturizer; it keeps my skin glowing, especially when receiving sun kisses.
11. Chilly-O Trucker Hats – I have four in rotation; 3 ATL versions in various colors and a customized one. He is constantly dropping new styles and color ways that you can purchase online or at the High Museum gift shop.
GIPHY App Key not set. Please check settings