Art After Dark: Imitating Life

A VR experience, a figurative art pop-up exhibition, live music, and more for the fall volume of Art After Dark.

The fall 2024 collection of events for the inimitable Art After Dark spotlights the ways art demonstrates our interpretations of reality and form.

We explore our latest film-based exhibition, American Gurl — which features heavy hitters like Kilo Kish and Carrie Mae Weems — and Dasia Hood's (@dasiahood) Dark & Divine figurative art pop-up exhibition, featuring seven local artists.

Our digital arts studio, MODA, features interactive virtual reality simulations – immersive scenes that nearly mirror reality through VR headsets.

We highlight several Black artisans in our vendor marketplace, for the purchase of locally sourced, high-quality goods.

Capture the human form in front of a special photoshoot background created by set design extraordinaire Dionna Bright (@dionna_bright).

We close out the night with two simultaneous vibes: a live band ensemble led by singer & composer Kris Bliss (@thekrisbliss, who has sang with icons such as Stevie Wonder and Solange) and Rooftop Vibes on the 4th floor with DJ Roxci (@djroxci), overlooking views of Uptown.

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

Event Schedule

6 pm - 8 pm (MODA Digital Arts Studio, 2nd Floor)
Computer-Generated Dreamworld by Dominique Perez

Immerse yourself into Computer-Generated Dreamworld created by Dominique Perez, an AR/VR experience born from vivid, abstract, imaginative spaces. (@adomoriginal)

6 pm - 10 pm (1st Floor)
In Divine Light Photoshoot Backdrop by Dionna Bright

Inspired by classical elements, the drapery, pillars, and Afro-centric sculptural pieces invite guests into a space that feels divine and graceful. The harp, palms, and flowers represent harmony and growth, while the warm, central light encourages people to see themselves as radiant and timeless. “In Divine Light” is a celebration of our Black brilliance.

6 pm - 10 pm (Performance Suite, 2nd Floor)
Dark & Divine Pop-Up Exhibition

Exclusively for Art Arfter Dark, enjoy the culminating show of the Dark & Divine series created and curated by Dasia Hood (@dasiahood). This bold, sensual, and spiritual exhibition, showcases Black portraiture, highlighting local collaborations between Black artists and models. Select works from the community, created during the figure sessions, will also be included. Featuring:

• Dionna Bright, @dionna_bright
• Chadwick Cartwright, @chdwckart
• Bryan Wilson, @bryanwilsonmfa
• Dru Swan, @drudsy
• Ida Irby, @ida.mae
• Adam Hamilton, @ricky_ham

6 pm - 10 pm (3rd Floor Mezzanine)
Vendor Marketplace

We highlight several Black artisans in our vendor marketplace, for the purchase of locally sourced, high-quality goods.

6:30 pm - 8 pm (2nd Floor Lobby)
Dark & Divine Panel with Dasia Hood

Dasia Hood moderates a conversation that reflects on the intention of the Dark & Divine series and the importance of empowering images of the Black form, with input from featured artists.

7 pm - 8:15 pm (4th Floor)
The Drums, A Diasporic Foundation with WALT

A live DJ and drum set combination that soundtracks the diverse manifestations of the drum. Featuring sounds from Manu Dibango, Celia Cruz, Libianca, and more. Co-curated and performed by DJ and drummer WALT (@walterboston3).

7:30 pm - 8:30 pm (2nd Floor Gallery)
This America: Inspired Theatrical Performance by Tiffany Bryant-Jackson

This America, a collection of short stories and monologues inspired by the American Gurl art exhibit, exploring themes of identity, resilience, and the multifaceted experiences of womanhood in America. Created and co-performed by actor, storyteller, and community leader Tiffany Bryant-Jackson (@tbryantjackson).

8 pm - 9:30 pm (Performance Suite, 2nd Floor)
Dark & Divine Collage Workshop by Wild Recluse

Take a deeper dive into the show with a drop-in multi-media collage experience, led by Wild Recluse (@wildrecluse).

8:30 pm - 10 pm (2nd Floor Lobby)
TO BECOME AND REMAIN HUMAN by Kris Bliss

A heartfelt exploration of love in all its complexities, featuring original compositions, songwriting, and poetry that delve into the myriad forms of love. Through poignant performances and candid storytelling, singer and composer Kris Bliss (@thekrisbliss) shares her current relationship with love, embracing vulnerability and transparency.

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

Enjoy the Uptown city views and curated sounds from one of Charlotte’s favorite DJs, DJ Roxci (@djroxci).