Emory Libraries Celebrates Atlanta's Soccer Culture and Community

New exhibition 'Footwork' explores the intersection of soccer, identity, and global influence in the host city for the upcoming World Cup.

Apr. 9, 2026 at 9:00am

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

A fragmented, geometric painting in bold primary colors depicting the dynamic action and spirit of a soccer match or celebration, with no recognizable figures or text.A cubist interpretation of the energy and movement of a soccer celebration, reflecting Atlanta's diverse cultural influences as a World Cup host city.Atlanta Today

To celebrate Atlanta's role as a host city for the upcoming World Cup, Emory Libraries is opening a new exhibition called 'Footwork: Celebrating Soccer, Culture, & Community.' The exhibition explores the deep connections between soccer, culture, and identity in Atlanta, drawing on the university's collections, academic expertise, and community partnerships to tell stories of the sport's impact across the region from 1968 to today.

Why it matters

As a major global sporting event, the World Cup has the power to bring communities together and shine a spotlight on local culture and identity. This exhibition allows Emory to showcase Atlanta's rich soccer heritage and how the sport has intersected with the city's civil rights history and evolving streetwear trends.

The details

The 'Footwork' exhibition features materials from Emory's Rose Library, including memorabilia, photos, and artifacts from the Atlanta Chiefs, the National Professional Soccer League, and the creation of the North American Soccer League. It also includes apparel from the adidas archives that traces the shared evolution of the World Cup, athletic performance, and streetwear. The exhibition is curated by Randy Gue of the Rose Library and Melissa Carnegie, founder of the Kicks & Fros sneaker culture platform.

  • The 'Footwork' exhibition opens on April 9, 2026.
  • The 2026 FIFA World Cup will be hosted in part by Atlanta.

The players

Emory Libraries

The library system of Emory University, which is hosting the 'Footwork' exhibition.

Randy Gue

Curator of the 'Footwork' exhibition and a member of the staff at Emory's Rose Library.

Melissa Carnegie

Founder of Kicks & Fros, a platform exploring sneaker culture, and co-curator of the 'Footwork' exhibition.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“As a major global sporting event, the World Cup has the power to bring communities together and shine a spotlight on local culture and identity.”

— Randy Gue, Curator, Emory Libraries

What’s next

The 'Footwork' exhibition will be on display at Emory Libraries throughout the 2026 World Cup, which is being hosted in part by Atlanta.

The takeaway

This exhibition allows Emory to showcase Atlanta's rich soccer heritage and how the sport has intersected with the city's civil rights history and evolving streetwear trends, providing a unique lens to celebrate the World Cup's arrival in the host city.