CltStreetArtCollaborative's Edgefest:
Uniting Creatives and Community in The Queen City
The vibrant streets of Charlotte came alive with a burst of creativity and community spirit as the Charlotte Street Art Collaborative hosted an event at the renowned Charlotte Art League. The event, which took place on July 15th from 3pm-9pm, brought together local artists, vendors, and businesses to celebrate art, community, and inclusivity.
Supporting our Local Artists, Vendors, and Building Community
Ranging from an array of activities from Live painting sessions by incredibly talented artists, music performances, scavenger hunts, comics, local brewers, 26 vendors, and more this event was not short of having a plethora of activities for all ages. Between the thousand attendees, our supporting organizations and volunteers, vendors, and creatives we were able to gather and support our community, embrace freedom of expression, and demonstrate the creative spirit that Charlotte embodies.
We also had the opportunity to hear about some of our attendees' experiences at Edgefest. Ranging from artists, volunteers, and first-time visitors this is what they shared.
" I was really hopeful. I was really giddy. I've never been to an event at the League's lawn. Everyone was super welcoming. I had gotten there once it started to rain for the first time. They had so much going on inside, outside, everywhere! I was overwhelmed with excitement. I got to talk to a couple of people and vend. I got to meet a lot of other people there and talk to artists. It was amazing. It felt like I was getting back to my community. I enjoyed the drum circle because I love making noise. I loved seeing everyone's craft, meeting new people, socializing, networking, and camaraderie. When it started to rain everyone was running around trying to figure out how to save everything they had and get out of the rain but we're artists. We always come back stronger. Rains not going to stop us. My takeaway was If you show up for your community they will show up for you." Honey_w_chai Artist/Vendor
"The live spray painting outside was memorable and exciting. The beer vendors and local artists selling their work were a part I enjoyed about Edgefest. There were rooms inside that displayed artists' work and a live drum display. Overall this was a solid display for local artists and a safe way for the art community to come together and celebrate art being made in and around Charlotte." Wesley/ Attendee
" We both had an absolutely wonderful time working with you to support the vibrant arts community here in Charlotte! Even though the rain changed some things, we were both still grateful for the opportunity to volunteer." Josie/ Volunteer
" I will forever hold in my heart the moment your dad (volunteer) and I helped an elderly women get inside safely in the pouring rain. You and your dad (volunteers) are very kind. We are very lucky to have met you both. Edgefest is truly some kind of magic." Kathleen/ Event Coordinator
" I want to start off by saying this was absolutely amazing and the energy was so warm and loving. The event really means community and expression to me. It shows when people put their hearts into something they can create beauty in many different ways. It shows how important it is to show appreciation to all types of art.
I enjoyed how vendors and artist didn't allow the rain to stop them from staying and having a great time. The music was great, the energy of the vendors, artists and people was amazing, warm, and loving. Kathaleen is such an angel for putting this event together for the community. I loved how many ways it was diverse. It's important to support local artists because it shows we don't necessarily need to completely rely on the system to make a profit.
My biggest takeaway is the power in being open to new opportunities and not allowing fear to stop you from doing what you love. The power of coming together to have fun and laugh especially when things in the world have been so serious. My heart is full from that opportunity to express." Alexandria Artist/Vendor
Rain or shine the collective support for this event was truly memorable. Serves as a testament to the strength of the community, the power of unity, and a stronger sense of camaraderie.
Below we have a few of many beautifully captured moments at Edgefest by cncooper_photography. Check them out!
For a full list of all the wonderful artists, vendors, volunteers, performers, and participants please visit us on our Website and Instagram.
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