September 2026

14 Charlotte has spent decades building a reputation around banking, business and rapid growth. Yet beyond the office tow - ers, another side of the Queen City is be- comingincreasinglydifficult tooverlook. Artists are helping define what Charlotte looks, sounds and feels like. Photogra- phers, filmmakers, musicians, painters, designers, dancers, writers and content creators are producing work throughout the city. Their influence can be seen on building walls, heard inside music ven- ues and discovered at markets, galler- ies, festivals and neighborhood events. That creative energy is gaining more formal support. In 2025, Charlotte awarded $1.723 million through its Cre - ative Growth Grants program to 106 art - ists and arts organizations. The program supports everyone from established or- ganizations to emerging creative groups. The city is also connecting creative pro- fessionals directly with opportunities. Charlotte’s 2026 Creative Pool wel - comed professionals working in photog- raphy, music, writing, graphic design, videography, sculpture, performance and numerous other disciplines. Partici- pants can pursue opportunities involving public art, community projects, event photography and creative engagement. That matters because creative talent does not automatically translate into a sustainable career. A photographer still needs clients. A musician needs audi- ences and opportunities. A filmmaker needs resources. A designer needs cus- tomers. Artists also have to understand Charlotte’s Creative Class Is Having a Moment Photo by | K Photo by | Big Bag Films