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McColl Center’s The Contemporaries Is Changing the Way Charlotte Collects Art

In spring 2024, McColl Center launched The Contemporaries, a first-of-its-kind art collecting community in Charlotte. Designed to build a deeper connection between artists and art lovers, the membership-based club has brought together a vibrant group of creative minds to commission original works, visit artist studios, and experience the city’s cultural landscape through a fresh lens.

Now, after a successful inaugural year, The Contemporaries is celebrating with a Wrap Party on Thursday, May 8, from 6–8 PM at McColl Center. Guests are invited to toast year one, connect with members, and be the first to hear the reveal of the four commissioned artists for its second year.

“We’re calling it a collector group, but it’s so much more than that,” says Sharon Dowell, McColl Center Artist-in-Residence alum, full-time artist, and consultant program architect for The Contemporaries. “It’s for people curious about collecting, or seasoned collectors. We’re building real community here and connecting people to artists who are right in their own backyard. After the pandemic, that kind of connection is something we’re all craving.”

A Modern Approach to Art Collecting

The Contemporaries combined member fees to commission new, limited-edition works from four standout artists. Members receive one of each artwork and are invited to private reveal events where they meet the artists and hear firsthand about the creative process.

In addition to these reveals, members participate in exclusive experiences, artist-led workshops, studio tours, and conversations with collectors and curators, all designed to deepen understanding of the creative process and the art of collecting.

“I didn't know what to expect when I joined,” said member Jami Banks. “I love art, but I don’t really know much about it. That was my motivation, and it exceeded every expectation. I’ve discovered new artists, taken home amazing pieces, and most of all, I’ve connected with thoughtful, creative people.”

A Year of Memorable Moments

In Year One, members enjoyed:

• Four artist reveal events across Charlotte; featuring commissioned artists: Marcus Kiser, Katrina Sánchez, Matthew Steele and Tom Thoune
• A printmaking workshop with Charlotte-based printmaker, Christopher Holston
• A studio tour with McColl Center artist-in-resident alum Ivan Toth Depena
• A color theory talk with noted founder of Home Ec.,interior designer Natalie Papier,
• An intimate tour and shopping experience at Clayworks Studio
• A demonstration and advice from Atelier 4, an arts logistics firm with offices in Charlotte, Miami, LA, and NYC
• Exclusive events at The Milestone, McGill Rose Garden, Hodges Taylor Gallery, and Camp North End

“As a native Charlottean, I’ve lived here my whole life, but The Contemporaries took me to corners of the city I’d never experienced,” said member Edwin Peacock. “It’s a groundbreaking group that brings art into the heart, and around the heart, of Charlotte.”

Join the Celebration

The Wrap Party on May 8 is open to the public and offers a unique opportunity to learn about this exclusive, members-only experience. Meet current members, enjoy drinks and community, and hear the announcement of the Year 2 commissioned artists.

Event Details:

Thursday, May 8, 2025
6:00 – 8:00 PM
McColl Center | 721 N Tryon St, Charlotte, NC

For media inquiries, event coverage, or images from year one events, please contact: Makeia Carrier, Marketing Director. 

More at mccollcenter.org/thecontemporaries