Art After Dark: For the People

“Yeah you know how we do, we do it for the people.”

–Common, The People, 2007

June brings a special edition of Art After Dark that highlights the ways art and culture are for the people.

As the sun sets, the Gantt transforms into a vibrant space where attendees immerse themselves in captivating exhibitions, live performances, fruitful conversations, and more.

Our curated collection of programs underlines the diverse voices that reflect artistic work by and for the community, offering a rich tapestry of stories that resonate beyond space and time. Guests have the opportunity to engage with local artists, participate in collaborative art workshops, and enjoy a range of activities designed to inspire connection and creativity.

Whether you are an art enthusiast, a curious newcomer, or someone looking to connect with others, this Art After Dark is a night steeped in inspiration and unity.

This event is made possible by the generous support of PNC Bank.

Event Schedule

6 pm - 10 pm (1st Floor)
Black June Art Installation & Photo Backdrop

Capture memories of the evening as we celebrate Juneteenth and Black Music Month, in front of an installation specially designed for Art After Dark. Created by Garrison Gist.

6 pm - 10 pm (3rd Floor Mezzanine)
Melanotion Media Kiosk

Melanotion is a media platform that celebrates the historical and cultural experiences of our community. They will connect with guests throughout the night, with an activity kiosk on the mezzanine.

6 pm - 7:30 pm (Gallery West, 3rd Floor)
Christopher Meyer's Exhibition Soundtrack: Playlist & Discussion

Poet and musician Curtis Lavon guides guests to provide songs that soundtrack the third floor exhibitions. This session analyzes Christopher Myers: Please Trouble, Carry Me.

6:30 pm - 8 pm (2nd Floor Lobby)
Black Carolina Panel: Artists as Community Leaders

Black Carolina Residency artists (Cookie Washington, Monique Luck, Dia, Dammit Wesley, and Georgie Nakima) discuss how their community projects created opportunities for connection and collective art experiences, moderated by storyteller and strategist Jasmine Ballard.

6:30 pm - 8 pm (4th Floor)
Everyday Struggle: Black Culture Debate

Creatives in Charlotte debate popular themes in Black art & culture, as audience members feature as guest debaters. Featuring Autumn Rainwater, Alvin C. Jacobs, Davita Galloway, Dion Galloway, and more! Hosted by Sir Will.

7 pm - 8:30 pm (Performance Suite/Multi-Purpose Room, 2nd Floor Lobby)
Canvas & Conversation

Two artists body paint while having a discussion in front of a live audience. Moderated by Sir Abstraxxx, featuring painters Krissie and Katrina.

7:30 pm - 9:30 pm (3rd Floor Mezzanine)
Gullah Rag Quilt Project: Drop-In Art Workshop

Black Carolina artist-in-residence Cookie Washington guides guests in a drop-in fabric art experience that spans generations of Gullah culture.

8 pm - 9:30 pm (Gallery East, 3rd Floor)
A Superlative Palette Soundtrack: Playlist & Discussion

Poet and musician Curtis Lavon guides guests to provide songs that soundtrack the third floor exhibitions. This session analyzes the work in A Superlative Palette: Contemporary Black Women Artists.

8:30 pm - 10 pm (2nd Floor Lobby)
VI Live: Live Music Production Performance

Experience singer, songwriter, and producer VI creates an instrumental from inception with lyrics and melodies added in real time, featuring an ensemble of musicians. Stage design by Root Papi.

8:30 pm - 10 pm (4th Floor)
Rooftop Vibes with DJ Roxci

DJ Roxci effortlessly spins a playlist that reflects classic rooftop vibes with sounds of the revolution, sounds of love, and everything in between. Honoring Black Music Month!