
McColl Center celebrates creativity and builds community through art collecting. The Contemporaries isn’t just a collecting group, it’s an immersive experience where members engage with contemporary art, connect with professional artists, and strengthen their ties to Charlotte’s cultural landscape. Together, we share curated experiences, enjoy commissioned artworks, and have fun. Whether you’re an experienced collector or new to the world of art, The Contemporaries offers a welcoming space to discover, connect, and be inspired. Join the club!
2025 COMMISSIONED ARTISTS

MEREDITH CONNELLY
Meredith Connelly is a multidisciplinary artist renowned for her immersive, illuminated installations that intertwine art, science, and technology. Drawing inspiration from natural forms and microscopic structures, her work transforms public spaces into enchanting environments that invite exploration and introspection. Connelly's art not only captivates visually but fosters a deeper connection between viewers and the natural world.
MYLOAN DINH
MyLoan Dinh is a Vietnamese-American interdisciplinary artist whose work explores themes of identity, displacement, and cultural memory. Through a blend of traditional and contemporary mediums, she delves into the complexities of the immigrant experience and the nuances of cultural assimilation. Dinh's art invites viewers to reflect on personal narratives and the broader socio-political landscapes that shape them.
GRACE STOTT
Grace Stott is a contemporary artist whose work explores themes of identity, memory, and the interplay between the natural and constructed worlds. Her pieces often incorporate mixed media, blending traditional techniques with modern aesthetics to create thought-provoking visuals. Stott's art invites viewers to reflect on personal and collective experiences, making her a compelling addition to any contemporary art discussion.
DAMMIT WESLEY
Dammit Wesley is a multidisciplinary artist and cultural agitator. His work boldly confronts themes of race, consumerism, and Black identity, often through the lens of pop culture. As the co-founder of BLKMRKTCLT and co-creator of the viral Durag Fest, Wesley is not only a visual artist but also a community builder, using his platforms to amplify underrepresented voices and foster dialogue within the arts community.
MEMBERSHIP DETAILS
COLLECTOR LEVEL
In this premier membership level, Collectors receive unique art works by commissioned artists, have access to intimate experiences with artists and galleries, will build community and develop knowledge about art making, collecting, and more. Membership fee | $1900 or $180 monthly
Space is limited to 30 memberships.
MEMBERSHIP BENEFITS
- 4 original or limited edition works
- Invitations for two to all events
- Priority registration to all events and workshops
EVENTS LEVEL
In this membership level, Events members join an inclusive community of arts enthusiasts and have access to selected experiences throughout the year. This is an ideal way to get a taste of the program. Membership fee | $275
Membership spots are limited.
MEMBERSHIP BENEFITS
-Invitations for two to all experiences*, and
-Early access to the Contemporaries membership the next year
* Priority ticketing will be given to Collector level members
2025
Thursday, September 18
Contemporaries Opening Night + Collector Panel: Collecting as Stewardship
SEPTEMBER 18 | 6:30-8 pm
Saturday, October 11
Reveal 1: Meredith Connelly
Step into Meredith Connelly’s glowing world during a lakeside walk-through of her immersive light installation.
2026
Thursday, January 22
Reveal 3: MyLoan Dinh
A multi-sensory evening of performance art as MyLoan Dinh unveils new commissions exploring identity, displacement, and cultural memory.
Saturday, March 21
Wet Plate Photography with Aspen Hochhalter, McColl Alumni
Learn about the early photographic technique of the wet plate process and take home a self portrait!
Thursday, May 7
Private Collection Tour
A personal and inspiring tour of the Jacksons’ private collection overlooking Charlotte’s Skyline and the Green.
Thursday, June 25
A Contemporaries Showcase Exhibition
Exhibition tour and discussion with curator Sharon Dowell.
Updates
McColl Center Updates
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.
Explore our Inaugural Year
2024 Commissioned Artists
Marcus Kiser, Katrina Sánchez, Matthew Steele, and Tom Thoune. These talented individuals bring diverse backgrounds and unique artistic perspectives to our community. Learn more about each artist and their inspiring work.
Our 2024 Sponsors
