The Contemporaries is a social, art-forward community for those who appreciate and collect contemporary art. Through artist-led gatherings, curated experiences, collecting education, and early artwork previews, you’ll meet artists, explore new work, and build confidence in your own collecting journey.
Your annual support helps create meaningful opportunities for artists at pivotal moments in their careers while connecting you with fellow arts supporters and McColl Center’s global network of Artists-in-Residence.
Collectors
COLLECTOR | $1,000
Deepen your impact and your connection to McColl Center’s artists and programs through a higher level of annual support. Collectors enjoy a calendar of programming, along with priority access when space is limited, more intimate opportunities to engage with artists, first looks at available artwork, select collector-focused experiences, and special recognition.
APPRECIATORS
APPRECIATOR | $250
Join a community of arts supporters helping artists thrive in their careers. Expand your knowledge of contemporary art through artist-led gatherings, collector education, early artwork previews, and opportunities to discover new work alongside artists and fellow art enthusiasts.
* Collector-level supporters receive priority access when space is limited.
Looking to deepen your impact?
For those interested in making a significant investment in an artist’s journey, Empower Living Artists connects your philanthropy directly to artists at pivotal stages in their careers. Learn More.
2026 Upcoming Events
Thursday, October 22
Collect Well
This gathering marks the beginning of a renewed focus on helping emerging and experienced collectors connect with artists and collect contemporary art with confidence. Learn the essentials of purchasing and commissioning artwork, including pricing, agreements, artist relationships, and ethical collecting practices.
Saturday, November 14, 2026
Centennial Celebration + Patron Party
Celebrate McColl Center’s centennial with an afternoon of art, artist demonstrations, and creative experiences throughout the building. Connect with Artists-in-Residence, fellows, and the McColl Center community during this special Patron Party.
2027 Upcoming Events
Thursday, January 28, 2027
The Collector’s Eye
Step inside the world of collecting through an intimate, progressive experience exploring how artwork is made, chosen, collected, and lived with.
Friday, February 12, 2027
First Look: Benefit Art Auction
Be among the first to explore the artwork and artists featured in McColl Center’s Benefit Art Auction.
Thursday, March 25, 2027
Made by Hand
A hands-on workshop + creative experience with a special guest.
Thursday, April 22, 2027
Closing Night: After Hours
Celebrate the final night of the current exhibition with an after-hours experience that brings art, community, and a little unexpected fun together.
Saturday, May 22, 2027
Inside the Spring Patron Party
Early look at the Spring Patron Party before the doors open to the public. Connect with artists and fellow Contemporaries while exploring available artwork and discovering pieces to add to your collection.
Tuesday, June 1, 2027
Summer 2027 | Summer Socials
Gather with fellow Contemporaries for a series of casual summer mixers featuring artist demonstrations, creative pop-ups, and opportunities to connect with artists and experience their work in an engaging, social setting.
Explore our Inaugural Year
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.
