Charlotte is a popular choice for art enthusiasts. You’ll find a wide variety of galleries, from the Mint Museum Uptown, with the best of American and European art, to Studio K, which promotes creativity and social responsibility. Each gallery in this thriving city provides a unique look into the art world.
These 20 art galleries in Charlotte promise an unforgettable experience, so let’s start our guide!
Mint Museum Uptown
The Mint Museum is a haven for art lovers. The 240-seat James B. Duke Auditorium, the Lewis Family Gallery, art studios, a restaurant and a museum store are among the top attractions at the Mint Museum Uptown.
Plus, the five-story, 145,000-square-foot structure combines cutting-edge architecture with inspiring exhibitions. Certainly, you can expect an unparalleled educational and cultural experiences.
Bechtler Museum of Modern Art
The Bechtler Museum is a must-see for anyone interested in modern art. It’s one of the top Charlotte art galleries. Plus, the exhibition features work by some of the most important and influential artists of the mid-twentieth century. These include Miró, Picasso, and Warhol. Additionally, works by Ernst, Le Corbusier, Tinguely, and Chillida are on display. The museum offers unique exhibitions, workshops and lectures.
McColl Center for Art + Innovation
Charlotte’s McColl Center is an innovative center that combines contemporary art and community engagement. Artists from various backgrounds work together to create stimulating exhibits that challenge conventional norms.
Visitors can learn more about the creative process by participating in artist-led programs and discussions. Further, this welcoming environment is ideal for people who are curious about the role of art in shaping society.
Elder Gallery of Contemporary Art
One of the top galleries in Charlotte NC, Elder Gallery of Contemporary Art is a massive warehouse-like space focusing on fine art glass and paintings. The gallery exhibits work by newer and established artists from various backgrounds. Further, many of them focus on fine glass art, modern sculpture and contemporary paintings.
This award-winning art gallery is popular among art lovers for its contemporary, innovative exhibits.
SOCO Gallery
This intimate gallery exhibits contemporary photography and designs. SOCO specializes in assisting private collectors, corporations and institutions in building museum-quality collections of artworks by emerging and established artists. Further, the gallery’s mission is centered on community engagement and education. SOCO Gallery and Bookshop are centrally located in historic Myers Park in a beautiful renovated 1920s bungalow.
The Light Factory
This Charlotte institution is dedicated to the photographic arts and hosts exhibitions featuring local and international talent. Film screenings and photography workshops at the gallery provide visitors with insights into visual storytelling. Plus, the vibrant, inclusive photographic center is a haven for photography and film. There are even signature events like the Annuale and exhibitions curated by the gallery’s staff and board.
Jerald Melberg Gallery
For Charlotte residents who enjoy both traditional and modern art, Jerald Melberg Gallery is a premier attraction. The gallery represents artists from the United States, Argentina and Spain. Among them are well-known artists like Robert Motherwell, one of the founders of the American Abstract Expressionist movement and Wolf Kahn, arguably the most admired and revered American painter of the past 60 years. Plus, a Charlotte favorite, you’ll find work by Romare Bearden, the master American collagist.
Shain Gallery
Shain Gallery, in Myers Park, is a gem for art lovers looking for traditional and representational art. Visitors to the gallery can admire the beauty of realism thanks to the exhibition of various regional and national artists. Shain Gallery represents over forty nationally and regionally acclaimed artists.
Charlotte Art League
The Charlotte Art League is a gallery that enriches the community through teaching and advocating for the creative arts. CAL provides a platform for underrepresented, emerging, and local artists to display and sell their creations. Plus, CAL also offers studios and wall space for rent. That means members have a cost-effective place to work, exhibit, and sell their wares. In sum, CAL provides a unique combination of public galleries, classes, and community outreach initiatives alongside open working studios.
Anne Neilson Fine Art Gallery
ANFA represents more than 50 artists from different countries. Artist Anne Neilson founded the gallery in 2014. It promotes community involvement in the arts by providing a platform for global artists of all styles and media to display and sell art. From there, visitors can discover ceramics, paintings and more. Clearly, it is one of the most-recommended Charlotte art galleries. In addition, the gallery also advises collectors on the best fit for their space.
Hidell Brooks Gallery
Hidell Brooks Gallery is known for promoting contemporary art by emerging and established local and national artists. The space features captivating exhibitions with various mediums and styles.
Visitors can explore the world of modern art, including contemporary paintings and sculpture. Plus, you’ll discover new perspectives and narratives that resonate with contemporary society.
Providence Gallery
The Providence Gallery stands out for its emphasis on traditional and representational art. Located in Myers Park, this Charlotte art gallery features a variety of modern abstracts, figurative pieces, and mixed media collages. Plus, you’ll be able to see traditional landscapes, seascapes and still-life paintings. Clearly, collectors and art enthusiasts looking for classic and timeless pieces will find many options at Providence Gallery.
Lark & Key Gallery
The charming Lark & Key Gallery has both modern fine craft and art. Lark & Key gallery exhibits works by national, regional and local artists, as well as showcasing their abilities in various media.
Visitors can explore the handpicked collection of paintings, distinctive ceramics, and jewelry, plus textiles and mixed-media artworks.
Dilworth Artisan Station
Dilworth Artisan Station served as a textile mill, furniture factory and even a place to store soldiers’ cars during World War II. With more than 30 artist studios and businesses housed under one roof, it is now a hub for innovators, creatives and artists.
DAS offers a dynamic and engaging art experience with various art studios. Further, visitors can see the artistic process in action by interacting with artists and learning about their processes.
Goodyear Arts
Goodyear Arts is a nonprofit residency and multi-arts events program that is artist-led. This artist-run gallery frequently changes the layout of its space to accommodate changing exhibitions and installations. From there, visitors can take part in one-of-a-kind interactive experiences and view cutting-edge contemporary art. Plus, Goodyear wants all audiences to engage with outstanding and challenging contemporary work.
Ross Art Gallery
Ross Art Gallery, part of Central Piedmont Community College, is for students and the general public alike. The art gallery in Charlotte presents exhibitions by faculty, students and guest artists with a focus on contemporary art.
Plsu, Ross serves as an inspiring location for art enthusiasts and aspiring artists. Visitors can get a sense of the energy of emerging talent and enjoy in the academic and creative environment.
Center of the Earth Gallery
The Centre of the Earth Gallery is an artist-run venue highlighting modern art with a distinct experimental edge. This Charlotte gallery presents provocative exhibitions that push the limits of the creative process. Art lovers with a taste for avant-garde will enjoy this cutting-edge contemporary art gallery. Clearly, it is a must-visit to experience the vibrant Charlotte NC art scene.
Mint Museum Randolph
Next, there’s there Mint Museum Randolph, the original branch of the Mint Museum. The gallery features a vast European and American art collection. Further, you’ll find ceramics and decorative arts. From there, visitors can see the rich cultural heritage in diverse exhibits and educational programs. The museum offers both a permanent collection and special exhibitions.
ArtHouse Gallery & Studio
ArtHouse Gallery & Studio features a mix of contemporary artworks, including paintings and sculptures, showcasing the region’s diverse talent. Once there, visitors can also partake in art classes and workshops. For that reason, this Charlotte art gallery is ideal for aspiring artists and those seeking to unleash their inner creativity. The studio features original and affordable artwork by emerging artists.
Studio K
Finally, Studio K is a working studio and gallery for artists with intellectual and developmental disabilities. The space provides creators with opportunities to showcase and sell their artwork. Once there, visitors can admire the exceptional talent and support a meaningful cause. Clearly, Studio K is a heartwarming destination for art enthusiasts who appreciate creativity.
Conclusion
With numerous galleries, Charlotte, North Carolina, is a great city for art enthusiasts. Every gallery has something unique to offer; you can explore different aesthetics and take in fascinating exhibitions. Don’t miss the opportunity to experience the best of this energetic city and immerse yourself in the wonderful world of expression and creativity if you love the arts.
