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.

Meet our Fall 2024 Artists-In-Residence

Join McColl Centers Fall 2024 Artists-in-Residence workshops. Our upcoming workshops bring artists and the community together to create, connect, and grow. These hands-on sessions offer a chance to engage with other artists, learn new techniques, and spark your creativity.


Upcoming Programs + Events

Saturday, October 19
Unearthed and Reimagined: Creating Art from Discarded Toys with Cathy McClure

Discover the hidden mechanisms within battery-powered stuffed animals and transform them into your own one-of-a-kind kinetic sculptures.

Saturday, November 2 - Sunday, November 3, 2024
Painting Your Story in Still Life with Taylor Lee Nicholson

In this two-day workshop, you'll learn the basics of acrylic painting through an immersive study in composition, color theory, and brush economy, as well as a simple step-by-step approach to painting “realistically” that demystifies what can often feel like an intimidating process.

Thursday, November 14
Ties That Bind: Portraits By Mitchell Kearney, Opening Reception

Since 1999, McColl Center's artist residency program has been a haven for artists—a place where they have the time, space, and resources to make their dreams a reality.

Saturday, November 16
Intro to Book Looms: Weaving Workshop with Claire Kiester

You'll learn the art of weaving while while making a beautiful woven wall hanging for your home. In this class, you will be introduced to the weaving process, a book loom design, and different weaving techniques suitable for any object.

Thursday, December 5
Winter Art Market at McColl Center

Ring in the holidays supporting artists at the Winter Art Market at McColl Center!

Thursday, December 12
CONTEMPORARY ART + MUSIC: Exploring the Temperaments Through History, Sound, and Sight

The evening will consist of an introduction to the temperaments, a presentation of paintings by Artist-in-Residence Andrew Leventis

Press + News

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.

McColl Center Updates
McColl Center Receives GuideStar Platinum Seal of Approval for 2023

The GuideStar Profile will be made publicly available by the McColl Center for the second year in a row.

McColl Center Updates
Teacher Workshop Invention & Modeling Day from the McColl Center

McColl Center and Charlotte Mecklenburg Schools joined forces to organize a Professional Development workshop for visual art teachers within the CMS district.