Stories of Impact: Visual Arts and Performance Center

Provided by VAPA and edited by Lindsay VanGorden

At VAPA, our unwavering commitment to our mission statement, “To cultivate accessible exhibition and creative workspaces to inspire and nurture the relationship between artists and the community,” drives every facet of our organization. We take immense pride in fostering an environment where artists and the community coalesce in a harmonious partnership, ensuring the continuous enrichment of our artistic and cultural tapestry.

Community involvement and art enrichment stand at the core of our endeavors. Our recent participation in the Charlotte International Arts Festival (CIAF) is a testament to our dedication to this mission. Several esteemed tenants, including the incredibly talented visual artists Laurie Smithwick, Rebecca Lipps, and Mark Doepker, diligently crafted captivating public art installations specifically for CIAF. These vibrant creations graced our gallery and spilled out into the public sphere, captivating and inspiring passersby with their beauty and creativity.

In addition to providing a haven for visual artists, we have worked tirelessly to establish a nurturing environment for performing artists. Vision Elite Royalty Dance Studio, a performing arts company at VAPA, showcased its exceptional talents during the Charlotte International Arts Festival. Furthermore, “A Night in Harlem,” a magnificent production hosted by Blumenthal Performing Arts, was rehearsed in the very heart of our building’s dance studio.

Upcoming VAPA Events

Every first Saturday of the month, from 12 p.m. to 9 p.m., VAPA hosts our Open Studios, where the community can explore our space and see what artists are working on. There is always a rotation of specialized events happening during Open Studios, such as art talks, performances, and workshops for the community. Be sure to mark your calendar for:

• Vapaversary, March 2, 2024 – Fundraising campaign launched during this time
• Crown Party, May 18, 2024 – Party in observance of Queen Charlotte’s birthday