Discovering Charlotte’s Art Scene – A Guide for Curious Tourists
Charlotte may be known for its banking industry and sports teams, but it has a thriving art scene that is often overlooked by tourists. If you’re looking for a change of pace from crowded theme parks and crowded beaches, Charlotte’s art scene may be worthy of exploration. You’ll find everything from world-renowned museums and galleries to innovative street art. In this post, we’ll take a closer look at Charlotte’s art scene and recommend some of the best places to visit while in town.
Museums are a great way to start exploring Charlotte’s art scene since they are well-curated and often feature world-renowned works. The Mint Museum in Uptown features a diverse collection of art and crafts from around the world, including examples of historic costumes and textiles. Meanwhile, the Bechtler Museum of Modern Art in the South Tryon Street district is known for its impressive collection of mid-20th century art. It was created out of the donations of Swiss industrialist Andreas Bechtler, who sought to share his family’s impressive collection with the public.
For those who prefer contemporary art, the McColl Center for Art + Innovation is a must-see. This progressive center aims to foster creativity and collaboration among artists, and frequently hosts exhibitions, talks, and events. Not far away, the Goodyear Arts residency program provides a platform for emerging artists, with a mission to strengthen Charlotte’s creative community through exhibitions and events.
Gallery hopping is another way to experience Charlotte’s art scene. The Elder Gallery features works by leading artists from around the world, while The New Gallery of Modern Art showcases contemporary art. The Light Factory is a great place for photography lovers, presenting thought-provoking works of local and global photographers. For outdoor art lovers, the Freedom Park sculpture garden is a must-visit, with over a dozen pieces of art scattered throughout its 98 acres.
Besides galleries and museums, Charlotte’s streets and public spaces are also home to a vibrant street art scene. The Sheep-Bovine mural by Spanish artist Eduardo Kobra is probably the city’s most well-known street mural. It’s located on an exterior wall of a parking garage along West Stonewall Street. Several local galleries, such as the Art Factory, also have interesting murals that can be spotted in the city.
Charlotte’s flourishing art scene is often overshadowed by the city’s more famous sites, but it’s worth exploring if you’re in town. From world-renowned museums to local galleries and street art, there is something for everyone. If you’re looking to discover a different side of Charlotte, take time to explore the city’s art scene. You never know what inspiration or surprise migh
