In the heart of Atlanta, Arelious Cooper Jr., Atlanta native and co-founder of Art In the Paint, is leading the way as Creative Director and Curator of the Alfred “Tup” Holmes Golf Museum.

This museum tells the story of Tup Holmes, a civil rights hero who took a stand to desegregate Atlanta’s public golf courses. Because of his efforts, generations of Black golfers, including stars like Tiger Woods and Alexis Belton have been able to rise in a sport that once shut them out.

For Cooper, this project is deeply personal. It’s not just about sharing history but honouring a legacy that helped shape Atlanta and opened doors for many. Holmes wasn’t just fighting for a spot on the golf course. He was fighting for dignity, for equal rights, and for access to public spaces that were once off-limits to Black communities.

Inside the museum, visitors will find carefully chosen artifacts, powerful exhibits, and interactive installations that bring Holmes’ story to life. Cooper wanted people to not just learn about history, but to feel connected to it. “This museum is more than a history lesson,” he says. “It’s a tribute to a family that changed everything. Their courage still inspires people today, and we want that story to keep reaching new generations.”

The museum also promises to not just showcase the past but also set a stance for the future. There are plans to run youth golf programs and educational activities, especially for underserved communities. It’s a space that blends sports, culture, and social justice—something Cooper has always stood for through his work with Art In the Paint.

Also to note, through AITP, Cooper has helped turn over a million square feet of public space into colourful, meaningful art. From murals to basketball courts, his work has reached thousands of people and partnered with major names like Lil Baby, Coco Gauff, Atlanta United, and Cash App. With over 70 projects completed, AITP has become a national model for how art and play can transform communities.

The Alfred “Tup” Holmes Golf Museum is not just a place to look back, it’s a space for learning, growing, and continuing the fight for equality. It keeps the Holmes family’s legacy alive while inspiring a new generation to keep pushing forward.

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