Art thrives when artists do.

Twenty-five years ago, the dream of creating an urban artist's colony in a fire-ravaged church in uptown Charlotte became a reality. Today, as a hub for creativity and a catalyst for growth, McColl Center is dedicated to putting artists first, supporting them throughout their careers with subsidized studios, access to modern equipment and tools, entrepreneurship programs, and 5,000 square feet of gallery space to exhibit and sell their work. Since 1999, our artist residency program has provided a haven for artists—a space where they have the time, resources, and freedom to turn their dreams into reality.

Join us in celebrating our rich history and the incredible artists who have shaped our community. Throughout the year, we’ll share inspiring stories and opportunities to engage with our community at upcoming celebratory events. Learn more.

Benefit Art Auction 2025

Attend the Live Auction + 25 Year Celebration at McColl Center on Saturday, February 22, 2025. This year, we’re celebrating a major milestone—25 years of McColl Center! The Benefit Art Auction will be an extraordinary celebration, honoring a quarter-century of nurturing artists, elevating careers, and helping establish Charlotte as a world-class creative city. We couldn’t be more excited to share this moment with you. Purchase your tickets here. 

Upcoming Programs + Events

Thursday, October 3 - Saturday, January 18, 2025
The Audacity

The Audacity examines the conflicting and arbitrary expectations placed on women, often referred to as the "Goldilocks Dilemma."

Saturday, January 11
Family Day

Start the Year with Art: Family Fun for All Ages!

Saturday, January 18
Artist Talk and Closing Reception: Ties That Bind: Portraits by Mitchell Kearney of Artists at McColl Center, 1999-2008

Join photographer Mitchell Kearney with McColl Center alumni Shaun Cassidy, Maja Godlewska, and Felicia Van Bork for a lively conversation about the early years of McColl Center.

Thursday, February 13
Celebrate the Artists + See the Works | McColl Center Benefit Art Auction 2025

Join us for a special opportunity to meet the Participating Artists, hear about their work and practice, and of course, celebrate them! The Silent Auction kicks off at 7:00 pm, giving you the first chance to see the amazing works up for grabs at the Live Auction + 25 Year Celebration on February 22.

Saturday, March 1 - Saturday, April 5, 2025
Young Artist Studio Series: Fashion Design Spring Session 1

Learn the basics of design sketching, fabric selection, and sewing techniques. Each week, students will work to bring their designs to life, guided by experienced instructors.

Saturday, October 18 - Sunday, October 19, 2025
Big Ink - Participant Registration

Join BIG INK at the McColl Center in Charlotte, NC, for a relief printmaking workshop of epic proportions! Learn how to carve a woodblock, then print your carving on a custom-built giant printing press. Beginners are welcome.

Press + News

McColl Center Updates
Artist-in-Residence Alumnus Asa Jackson Named Next President and CEO of McColl Center

“I am deeply honored and excited to join McColl Center at this pivotal moment. My experience as a resident artist here was transformative, and I look forward to leading an organization that has been a cornerstone in empowering artists and fostering creativity. Together with McColl Center’s talented team, I’m eager to deepen our impact and expand opportunities for artists to thrive.”

McColl Center Updates
McColl Center Celebrates 25 Years with Ties That Bind Photography Exhibition by Mitchell Kearney

This exhibition showcases Kearney’s nearly decade-long documentation of McColl Center’s transformation and the artists who shaped its creative legacy.

McColl Center Updates
MCCOLL BEGINS SEARCH FOR NEW PRESIDENT AND CEO

McColl Center seeks an experienced leader to guide McColl Center during an exciting time in the organization’s history.