July 2026

Summer is in full swing at Charlotte Studio Artists, and our studios have been buzzing with activity. Between new artwork on the walls, upcoming workshops, special exhibitions, and exciting plans for the future of CSA, there’s plenty happening this month – and plenty of reasons to stop by and visit.

One of the things we love most about CSA is that it’s more than a collection of studios. It's a community of artists, collectors, supporters, and curious visitors who make this place special. This month’s newsletter offers a glimpse into what’s happening behind the scenes, what’s inspiring our artists, and what’s coming next for our growing creative community.

As always, our doors are open to anyone looking for a little inspiration. We’d also love to hear from you. What kinds of stories, artist features, studio insights, or creative content would you like to see in future newsletters? Simply reply and let us know—we're building this newsletter for you.

Please note that CSA will be closed on Friday, July 4th in observance of Independence Day. We wish you a safe and happy holiday and look forward to welcoming you to the studios soon!

This Month at CSA

Featured Artist Each month, we're shining a spotlight on one of the talented artists who calls CSA home. Through a few questions and stories, you'll get a glimpse into their creative process, current projects, and the experiences that shape their work. This month, we're getting to know Debbie Hunt.

Artist News

Debbie was recently selected for publication in 100 Emerging Artworks of 2026 by the Arts to Hearts Project, a global media, publishing, and education platform supporting artists and creatives around the world. Congratulations, Debbie!

What are you currently working on in the studio?

Currently, I have several new pieces going. One is an expressionistic painting of three women. I am planning on doing a series of women portraits.

The second is a painting of my two horses and the third is a very large 4’ x 5’ cloudscape.

Is there a medium, technique, or subject you're eager to explore next?

I typically paint landscapes but I am beginning to explore portrait painting and I want to do it on copper.

Is there a recent piece that feels especially meaningful to you? Why?

I recently completed a painting titled Summerland, inspired by my two horses who were part of my life for 25 years. They were first my Eventing horses, then became lesson horses, and eventually we all retired together on my farm in Virginia. Their bond was remarkable—they were deeply devoted to one another and seemed to move through life as one. I always loved watching them wander the pasture side by side.

Both have now passed on, and this painting was created in remembrance of them. It is a tribute to their companionship, their trust in one another, and the many years we shared together.

Just for Fun

☕ Coffee in the morning, herbal tea at night

🐦 Early bird or night owl? Neither—more of a midday crow

🎨 Favorite art supply? Oil paint

🎵 Music, podcast, or silence while you work? Music

CSA Brings Art and Wellness Together at Novant Health Ballantyne

Charlotte Studio Artists is honored to be one of five local arts organizations selected to participate in a community mural initiative at Novant Health Ballantyne Medical Center. Located in the Team Member Entrance and Courtyard, the mural was funded through Novant Health's Art of Remarkable Care initiative and developed in partnership with Charlotte Is Creative and Shana Templin, a CSA resident artist and Novant Health's Arts in Health Facilitator.

Centered on the theme of Arts in Wellness, the mural explores the idea of "Your Brain on Art" by highlighting the positive impact creativity can have on mental and emotional well-being. Vibrant flowers symbolize healing and growth, while visual references to oxytocin, dopamine, and serotonin celebrate the ways art can support connection, joy, and resilience. A green ribbon is woven into the design to promote awareness of mental health and the important role the arts can play in supporting wellness.

The project is part of a larger community initiative that will bring additional murals to the medical center throughout the year. Four other arts organizations will complete their own installations between now and the fall, creating a vibrant collection of artwork that celebrates healing, creativity, and community.

We are grateful for the opportunity to contribute to a space dedicated to care and well-being and proud to represent the power of the arts within our community.

Have you SEEN the winner?

We are thrilled to announce that Stephanie Gainer was the winner of SEEN contest for June. The theme was Shadows. Her entry was titled “Charlotte in the Shadows".

Closing Soon: 250 Years of Becoming

There's still time to experience 250 Years of Becoming, our current gallery exhibition, on view through July 11. Rather than looking at American history as a finished story, this collection invites visitors to reflect on the many ways our nation continues to evolve—through moments of challenge, resilience, change, and hope.

Featuring thoughtful work by artists from across the Charlotte area and members of CSA's resident artist program, the exhibition explores themes of identity, immigration, cultural influence, social movements, and the ongoing idea of what America has been—and what it can become. Whether you're drawn to history, storytelling, or simply discovering art that sparks conversation, we hope you'll stop by before this meaningful exhibition closes.

Mark Your Calendars

Help CSA Remain Charlotte's Best!

We're excited to share that Charlotte Studio Artists has once again been nominated for Charlotte's Best 2026 by the Charlotte Observer! Last year, thanks to the incredible support of our artists, visitors, collectors, students, and friends, CSA earned this honor – and we'd love your help in keeping the title this year.

If you've enjoyed visiting our studios, attended an event or workshop, discovered a favorite artist, or simply believe in the value of a thriving local arts community, we'd be grateful for your vote. Every vote helps raise the visibility of Charlotte's creative community and the artists who make CSA such a special place.

Voting is open July 6–24 at VoteCharlottesBest.com. Thank you for your continued support!

Call to Artists - Black, White, and Everything in Between

Call opens: July 9th

Submission deadline: August 27th

For more information about this and all of our upcoming calls, please see the Call to Artists page on our website.

CSA Summer Workshop Series

Sketchbooks Without Rules Saturday, July 11th, 2026 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM Let go of perfection and explore a more playful approach to sketchbooking. Through simple prompts and creative exercises, you'll learn ways to capture everyday moments using drawing, color, writing, and collage. Perfect for beginners and experienced artists alike. $50 - All materials are provided.

Doll Assemblage Saturday, July 18, 2026 1:00 PM 3:00 PM Create an imaginative assemblage sculpture using found objects, vintage elements, and unexpected materials. Learn basic construction and design techniques while building a whimsical character full of personality and storytelling potential. No prior experience required. $40 - All materials are provided.

Make a Pretty Pendant Saturday, July 25, 2026 1:00 PM 3:00 PM Sheila will demonstrate essential techniques for shaping and securing wire around a stone, giving you the skills to complete a wearable piece of jewelry. $75 - All materials are provided.

Experience CSA at Noda Bizarre

Saturday, August 1, 2026

12:00 PM - 6:00 PM

The NoDa Bizarre is August 1st. Please come and join us. Our artists will be here for you to meet, see their creative process and discuss their work. We will have artists at the front entrance, in the Workshop Room as well as all of the artists studios. The Charlotte Studio Artists donate work for an auction to benefit the NoDa Business Association. Please wander down the main hallway and through our studios and galleries to find the artwork to bid on. We look forward to seeing you!

Charlotte Studio Artists is proud to participate in this year's NoDa Bizarre, a vibrant celebration of art, creativity, and community held on the Johnston YMCA campus.
Learn more about the NoDa Bizarre at ​https://www.noda.org/noda-bizarre​​

For more information about these and all our events visit the CSA Events page.

Guild of Charlotte Artists Featured at CSA Gallery

This month we welcome:

Paige Sisk Paige Sisk Creative Studio Paige Sisk is a contemporary mixed-media artist whose richly textured abstract works are inspired by the rhythms, colors, and forms found in nature. Combining materials such as resin, gold leaf, plaster, mica, and natural patinas, she creates layered pieces that invite viewers to explore movement, depth, and personal connection.

Dominic Mohr Mohr Illustrates Dominic Mohr is a freelance illustrator whose bold, expressive work is shaped by his unique perspective and lifelong love of comics, cartooning, and storytelling. A recent Winthrop University graduate, Dominic creates both digital and traditional artwork, specializing in custom illustrations, character-driven designs, and vibrant commissioned pieces.

Help Us Find Our New Home

Charlotte Studio Artists is moving forward, built on the strength of our collective, creative endeavor thus far. Our future will likely be in a new space, as we anticipate needing to relocate by the end of this year. We are searching for a new home with many of the features of our current location: easily accessible, community-oriented, and light-filled, with space to grow and good parking. We are grateful to the Johnston YMCA for supporting us with an affordable launching pad, and for their partnership. Now, we’re looking for place where our studio, gallery, retail, and teaching efforts can continue to flourish. We ask for and welcome your creative ideas, connections, and contributions to our search. If you have ideas for us, or are able to help us in any way, please e-mail us at charlottestudioartists@gmail.com.

Do you want to volunteer in a creative space?

CSA has a need for volunteers! Whether you like to be in the middle of the action or quieter spot, there is a place for you. We especially need volunteers who would like to be docents—or meet and greet at our front desk. We welcome visitors from our neighborhood, across the country, and around the globe. If you’re available for occasional Saturday 4-hour shifts, or third Thursday evenings, please e-mail charlottestudioartists@gmail.com. We have special projects at other times, too. Come enjoy the creative vibe while you contribute to CSA’s volunteer effort. We’d be grateful.

OPEN HOURS

CSA is open every Saturday, 10:00 am to 6:00 pm. Stop by, say hello, meet artists, and buy art! What could be more fun than engaging people who are interested in art?