ArtPop is Growing Its Artist Cohort, and its Community Impact Yet
This year, additional funding will support more young creatives
CHARLOTTE, N.C. (April 23, 2026) – ArtPop, a local nonprofit that amplifies the Charlotte region’s creative spirit by transforming everyday places into creative and immersive experiences, has announced its largest artist cohort to date. The 24 group of local creators, which includes 19 adults and five high school seniors, will receive upwards of $8 million in outdoor advertising space for one year, plus selling connections to community and more.
With a generous anonymous donation, ArtPop was able to expand its annual student artist offering from one to five eligible seniors. “This wonderful gift will allow us to invest even further in the future generation of artists, in addition to uplifting local creatives and transforming our community,” said Wendy Hickey, Executive Director of ArtPop. Student artists will receive the same benefits as the adult artists, plus $2500 scholarships for each student to pursue an arts degree in college.
“In the thirteenth year of our non-profit mission, we trust that the 24 juried-in artists will grow their small businesses and their connections within the community,” said Dylan Bannister, ArtPop’s Director of Creative Commissions.
The advertising space, generously provided by Adams Outdoor Advertising, Awedience Media, Lamar Advertising, and many other media partners, will present the 2026 cohort’s artwork. The spaces will showcase pieces covering a wide range of mediums and themes on billboards and digital displays, both locally and nationally, for an entire calendar year.
Click here to meet the 2026 Artist Cohort, and follow their journeys on ArtPop’s Instagram.
About ArtPop
ArtPop is a Charlotte, NC-based 501(c)(3) nonprofit that believes that art connects people and builds vibrant communities. Through programs such as the Artist Cohort, Creative Commissions, Sustainability & Fashion, and Events, ArtPop transforms everyday places into creative and immersive experiences. For more information on ArtPop’s programs, annual calls for local artist submissions, and ways to support the Charlotte Arts Community, visit our website and find us on Instagram @ArtPopStreetGallery.
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