There are a few moments in every artist’s life that feel like a true turning point. For me, being selected by ArtPop Street Gallery was one of those moments.
Image courtesy of ArtPop Street Gallery.
My painting, Harvest was chosen as part of ArtPop’s Class of 2022, and it was the first time an artist from Catawba County had ever been featured. That alone felt like a huge honor. But what happened next?
That changed the course of my creative journey.
My work wasn’t just displayed on a single billboard. It appeared throughout Charlotte in public spaces, including Charlotte Douglas International Airport, one of the busiest airports in the country.
Suddenly, my art was reaching people I’d never have had the chance to connect with otherwise. It brought in new opportunities –gallery invitations, commissions, collaborations- and helped put my name on the map in a way I never expected.
A Foray Into Fashion
ArtPop doesn’t just support visual artists. They create space for fashion, connection, and community too.
Through ArtPop, I had the chance to create my first-ever runway design, using an upcycled billboard from another artist in the previous year’s class.
Turning that weather-worn vinyl into wearable art was such a wild, inspiring experience. Then I got to witness the full-circle moment: watching another designer turn my own billboard into a gorgeous fashion piece the following year. That kind of exchange between artists? It’s rare and so special.
ArtPop connected me with a community of creatives that inspire me constantly. We share ideas, cheer each other on, and collaborate in ways that go beyond any one project or piece of art.
Support ArtPop Street Gallery
Like so many nonprofits, ArtPop relies on funding and community support to keep doing this powerful, transformative work in uplifting artists, making art public and accessible, and helping creativity reach corners of our communities that need it most.
If ArtPop made you smile when you saw something beautiful during your commute…
If you believe in making art public, inclusive, and visible…
If you want to support artists at every stage of their careers…
Please consider supporting them. Through donations, partnerships, or simply spreading the word.
You can learn more or donate at artpopstreetgallery.com. Every bit of support helps them keep the magic alive for artists and for the communities that get to experience art where they least expect it.
With love and deep gratitude,
Melissa