Featured photo: Artwork by Katherine Kesey
First Friday Gallery Crawl
Discover art in South End.
South End is home to a vast array of art in all forms: fine art galleries offering everything from the realist to the experimental, colorful public murals, larger-than-life installations on the Rail Trail and dozens of studio spaces where artists and artisans dream and create.
Take in the local art scene on South End First Friday--a day when galleries and shops offer extended hours and special receptions. Build in a visit to any of the neighborhood’s restaurants and breweries, and it’s a whole night out!
Here's what to know:
- This event is FREE, open to the public, and family-friendly; no RSVP or ticket is required.
- The First Friday Gallery Crawl is held every first Friday of the month, all year long. Mark your calendars for: January 9, February 6, March 6, April 3, May 1, June 5, July 10, August 7, September 4, October 2, November 6, and December 4, 2026.
- Some galleries may serve light refreshments or feature live painting.
- Exhibits change regularly, so be sure to keep this event on your calendar throughout the year.
- Gallery Crawl was named the Best Artsy Place to Take a Date by Charlotte Magazine.
- For regular bi-monthly updates, subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on Instagram and Facebook.
check out the january gallery crawl map
What to expect this month:
First Friday is being held on January 9. Participating businesses include Dilworth Artisan Station, Shed Brand Studio, and StudioWorks Gallery.
Dilworth Artisan Station, 5:30-8:30 pm
118 E. Kingston Ave
Dilworth Artisan Station is located in a 100-year-old building that has 30 creatives and their working studios under one historic roof. This month, expect refreshments and a DJ playing live music.
FEATURED WORK
"Tracks to the Queen City" oil painting by Mary Kamerer
Shed Brand Studio, 5:00-7:00 pm
Founded in a sheep shed in 1969, Shed Brand Studio of Charlotte, North Carolina masters the craft of premier stained glass windows, the finest custom doors, and a variety of other services. They will be hosting multiple stained glass pieces on display, as well as handmade jewelry and pottery.
FEATURED ARTWORK
Copper foil with iridized glass
StudioWorks Artist Collective + Gallery, 5-8 pm
January's Gallery Crawl Open House will feature StudioWorks Gallery's annual New Year Sale, with 20-50% off most artwork. StudioWorks is a 12-woman artist collective open during gallery crawls, by appointment, through designer consultations, and now on Wednesdays from 11-2pm.
FEATURED WORK
"More Light than Darkness" by Jenny Fuller, 30x30, oil on canvas
Looking to discover bites & brews in the neighborhood?
South End is home to some of the best restaurants and breweries in Charlotte. Explore all that the neighborhood has to offer.
Learn more about South End Art
Learn more about Black muralists in South End
See the guide to neighborhood murals
Thank you for your support!