The inspiring work of notable African-American artists and people of African descent is showcased at the Harvey B. Gantt Center for African-American Arts and Culture. Check out this community’s contributions to American art, history and culture when you explore the Gantt Center’s galleries, venues and classrooms. Experience the richness and diversity of the African-American community in Charlotte and beyond through thought-provoking exhibitions, film screenings, performances and seminars.
Take a moment to appreciate the Gantt Center’s spectacular architecture. Admire the building’s geometric façade, which incorporates patterns that reflect the Underground Railroad and West African textile patterns. The interior of the building and its network of interweaving stairways and escalators was inspired by the Biblical theme of Jacob’s Ladder and the vibrancy of the old Brooklyn neighborhood that was demolished to make way for Charlotte’s central business district in the 1960s.
Check out what’s on at the Gantt Center’s front desk. The center’s permanent collection features a large contribution from the John and Vivian Hewitt Collection of African-American Art. See works by Romare Bearden, Henry Ossawa Tanner, Elizabeth Catlett, Jonathan Green and other artists who have made their mark on the art world. You might see an exhibition of contemporary photography, historical paintings from the archives or an intriguing collection of modernist pieces.
The Gantt Center’s diverse cultural program includes music, dance and theater performances, as well as film screenings and arts education workshops. Join a guided tour for a better insight into collection items, the building’s architecture and the mission of the center.
The Harvey B. Gantt Center for African-American Arts and Culture is situated in the southern quarter of Uptown Charlotte. It is easily accessible by bus or trolley. Park underground at the Levine Center for the Arts or at one of the nearby surface lots. The center has discounted admission for seniors, children, students, educators and military. It is closed on Mondays, as well as several public holidays. Purchase a combined ticket to get 2-day access to the Gantt Center, the Mint Museum of Art and the Bechtler Museum of Modern Art.
