“Optimism is the medicine that God gives to you, to let you know that tomorrow will be a better day.” - Melissa A. Mitchell @abeillecreations is a self-taught artist, designer and author whose commitment to honoring her heritage is evident in all she does! We’re beyond excited to have her voice and her talent as part of #TheNEXTMovement. See more of her at the link in our bio. ✨✨✨ #TheNEXTMovement is a multi-platform art and social action campaign envisioned by @NEXTAtlanta and @MARTA_Artbound. It highlights five incredible artists and a who’s who of leading Atlanta art activists – speaking directly to the global pandemic, the racial reckoning within our communities and how art can propel us forward. Over the next several months you’ll see and hear from these artists on digital and IRL platforms across the city. Starting this week, keep an eye out for their faces and stories on digital billboards near a MARTA station near you. #NEXTonMARTA @marta_explorers #artsatlanta #art #socialjustice #poetry #music #artsactivism #blackartsmatter #artsforsocialchange Photos by the inimitable @stevewestphoto Curated by @pfaith_carmichael