McColl Center, Charlotte

The McColl Center, located in downtown Charlotte, North Carolina, is an important hub for contemporary art and creativity. Initially named the McColl Center for Art + Innovation, this esteemed establishment functions as both a space for artists to reside and a vibrant contemporary art venue. Since its establishment in 1999, the center has been dedicated to encouraging collaboration and interaction among artists and the wider community, aiming to enhance the cultural landscape of Charlotte and beyond.

The center's facilities reflect its commitment to the arts, featuring nine individual artist studios, a comprehensive large-scale sculpture facility, and versatile common areas. With over 5,000 square feet of exhibition space, the center showcases the innovative work of residents and guest artists. It is well-equipped with tools and materials for a range of artistic practices, including fiber arts, jewelry making, metal fabrication, printmaking, sculpture, painting, photography, ceramics, digital media, and woodworking.

The center hosts numerous public events such as residency openings, exhibitions, and community engagement activities, fostering deeper connections between artists and the public.

The McColl Center's building holds a significant place in Charlotte's history, originally constructed in 1926 as a Presbyterian Church. After the church ceased operations in 1950, the building remained vacant until a fire in 1984 left it empty. In a transformative initiative, Bank of America, in collaboration with Charlotte's Arts & Science Council, acquired and repurposed the building in 1995. The renovation, skillfully carried out by FMK Architects and Rodgers Builders, preserved the building's historical character while transforming it into a modern space for artists.