Anyone who knows someone from Charlotte has undoubtedly participated in a conversation lamenting the breakneck pace of development in the Queen City, and the resulting cultural collateral damage. There has, to be certain, been loss. But there has also been growth and generation, the blossoming of new neighborhoods and communities. Nowhere is that evidenced quite so impactfully in Charlotte, perhaps, than in South End.
In its early days, South End was home to a Pepsi-Cola bottling factory, a flour mill, a few residences and not much else. And yet in the past 20 years South End has emerged as one of Charlotte’s trendiest, not to mention busiest, neighborhoods. Careful planning from Charlotte Center City Partners and the Charlotte Planning Department thoughtfully accounted for pedestrian and bike traffic, cohesive architectural styles, and conditions ripe for local businesses to flourish.
The result is a neighborhood that is immensely walkable, attractive to high-end, national brands and local eateries/retailers alike, and bustling with activity. All of these qualities have led not only to the growth of a young and enthusiastic community in what was previously a quiet and largely forgotten corner of Charlotte, but also to the emergence of a radiant art scene that deepens the neighborhood’s vibrancy and character.
South End in Technicolor
Large-scale installations, colorful murals, and provocative sculptures now define street corners and buildings. Take for example the now Instagram-famous Confetti Hearts Wall by Evelyn Henson. Or consider the For the Good of the Hive mural on the side of Flower Child. Meanwhile, the neighborhood’s walking art tour (South End Interactive) and the Art Comes to Life program— which enables viewers to scan QR codes at ten different murals and discover the story behind the art, described by the artist themself—promote ongoing public art access and appreciation, closing the gap between artist and viewer. These public installations are bolstered by numerous galleries. For example, there’s the Hidell Brooks Gallery, showcasing modern American works. Or think of the Elder Gallery of Contemporary Art, displaying primarily fine glass art and painting. Lastly, consider the Gil Gallery on the border of uptown and South End.
First Fridays at the South End Charlotte Gallery Crawl
South End’s thriving arts scene is most on display on the first Friday of each month. At this time, the neighborhood hosts the South End Charlotte Gallery Crawl. The list of participating galleries rotates periodically. June’s roster includes Dilworth Artisan Station, a historic building that shelters the studios of over 30 artists. Additionally, visitors will discover Shed Brand Studio, where stained glass, antique windows, and custom doors come to life. And StudioWorks, a collective formed by women artists to share and sell their original artwork, is also a participant. The crawls are always free and never require RSVP. Often, participating galleries will add to the festivities by serving light refreshments or programming live demonstrations or artist Q&As.
Before, during, and after the crawl, viewers might wander from the studios and galleries to the neighborhood’s eateries and Charlotte-based breweries. Perhaps duck into local staples like Golden Carrot or Savory Spice Shop. And then wander home after a very full, very unique evening passed entirely in one corner of the Queen City.
It is an unparalleled way to bear witness to urban creation on multiple level. Observe a neighborhood redeveloped, a community built, a neighborhood personality molded, an artistic hub forged, fine art created.
