Explore Charlotte’s Local Art Scene with 5 Must-See Experiences
Discover the vibrant art installations that define Charlotte's creative landscape.
One of the best parts of Charlotte’s art scene is its diverse and captivating public art installations. From dynamic murals to thought-provoking sculptures, the Queen City offers a wealth of visual experiences that both locals and visitors can enjoy. In this guide, we’ll explore five must-see art installations that showcase the talent and vision of some of Charlotte’s finest artists. Whether you’re an art enthusiast or just looking for a new way to experience the city, these are five spots you are going to want to check out!
Sharon Dowell’s Mosaic Mural at the 25th St. Light Rail Station
Location: 2200 N Brevard St. Charlotte, NC 28206
Experience the ten striking mosaic murals by Sharon Dowell at the 25th St. Light Rail Station, a highlight of the Blue Line light rail expansion. Commissioned by the Charlotte Area Transit System, Dowell's installation captures the essence of Charlotte architecture while celebrating the vibrance of the Optimist Park, Belmont, and NoDa neighborhoods. An alumni of ArtPop’s Cities Program Class of 2014, Sharon has created a number public art installations throughout Charlotte.
After viewing this vibrant set of murals, take a quick stroll down the light rail and check out our infamous food hall, Optimist Hall where you can grab a drink at the Spindle Bar or splurge on many types of grilled cheeses at Papi Queso.
Kalin Devone’s Exterior Mural in North Charlotte
Location: Bingo Tires at 4026 N Tryon St, Charlotte, NC 28206
Take a drive down N Tryon St and view this stunning mural by Kalin Devone. Commissioned through ArtPop’s Inspiration Projects division in collaboration with Harris Teeter, Procter & Gamble, this mural celebrates Women’s History Month. The mural honors American aviator Bessie Coleman, Guatemalan-American scientist Nicole Hernandez Hammer, and Queen Liliʻuokalani, themed around "air, land, and sea." Kalin is an alumni of ArtPop’s Cities Program Class of 2022.
This mural is only a quick drive away from NoDa, where you can find local coffee legends like Smelly Cat Cafe or grab a giant pizza slice at Benny’s Pennello’s.
Hilary Siber Edwards’ Installation at Lowe’s Tech Hub in South End
Location: 100 W Worthington Ave, Charlotte, NC 28203 | Inspiration Projects 2023
As part of an Inspiration Projects collaboration between ArtPop and Gökotta, we teamed up with Cities Program '18 Alumni Hilary Siber Edwards to create a unique public art piece for the exterior of the Lowe’s Tech Hub in Charlotte, NC. After nearly two years of planning, fabrication, and installation, the result is 'Double Take' – a striking installation of dichroic glass and fiber-optic cables that stretches over six stories, greeting drivers and pedestrians below. Each evening, the fiber-optic cables light up, softly illuminating the South End area from the side of the Lowe’s Tech Hub building.
This installation directly faces Nebel’s Alley Night Market in South End. While you are in the neighborhood, check out local breweries like Sycamore or play a round of mini golf at the Puttery.
Esther Moorehead’s Espresso Mural at Platform Coffee in West Charlotte
Location: Platform Coffee at 919 Berryhill Rd #104, Charlotte, NC 28208
Esther Moorehead partnered with Platform Coffee in West Charlotte to create a mural for the rebrand launch of their coffee shop. The mural, painted on wood panels, combines straight espresso with two tones of diluted acrylic paint to achieve a rich, nuanced appearance. Esther’s artwork was featured in ArtPop’s Cities Program Class of 2023 and our Inspiration Projects division.
Don’t forget to explore the area after your visit! The corner of W Moorehead and Freedom Dr has tons of popular establishments like Pinky’s Westside Grill and Town Brewing.
Cheeks’ Mural at Luminous Lane in Uptown Charlotte
Location: 100 East 4th Street Charlotte, NC 28280
You can find this remarkable mural by Cheeks with assistance by Katrina Sánchez and Callie Brewer at the entrance of Luminous Lane, an uptown alley which features numerous murals by local artists started by Charlotte SHOUT! in 2023. This piece was presented as the fourth character in the artists’ larger-than-life series of humans and creates the visual illusion of a colossal 60-foot tall giant. The artist trio have collaborated with ArtPop through our Inspiration Projects division, and Katrina’s work was featured in our Cities Program Class of 2022.
Spend the day in Uptown enjoying all Charlotte’s art scene has to offer and visit the Mint Museum, Bechtler Museum of Modern Art, and Harvey B. Gantt Center for African-American Arts and Culture.
BONUS: Cities Program Billboards 2024
As you are exploring the five public art experiences mentioned above, keep an eye out for ArtPop’s Cities Program Class of 2024 billboards! Each year, 20 local artists are showcased on donated public media space, and receive benefits including educational opportunities, features at artist events, and more - all to foster sustainable careers in the arts and to make art accessible to all. Can you find all 20?
These installations offer a glimpse into Charlotte's diverse and evolving art scene. Each piece, from mosaic murals to intricate sculptures, reflects the city's cultural depth and creative spirit. Whether you're exploring familiar neighborhoods or discovering new corners of the city, these artworks invite contemplation and appreciation for the artistic contributions shaping Charlotte's urban landscape!
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