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seen uptown
10
life uptown
12
seen in theatre
16
Advice Goddess
20
pictures from our readers
22
NoDa
25
uptown for kids
28
public art in SouthEnd
32
... fashion: torn
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legacy creators
42
architecture
44
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image: Fenix Fotography
NASCAR Hall of Fame
4 – seen uptown
48
fashion: morph
52
art: CORE
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cover
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publisher TJ Larsen TJ@SeenUptown.com www.MyTownhome.com
editor Scott Lindsley Scott@SeenUptown.com www.LiveInWilmore.com Senior editor David Aaron Moore DavidAaron@SeenUptown.com www.davidaaronmoore.com fashion editor Joey Hewell Joey@SeenUptown.com www.JStudioSouthend.com art editor Sharon Dowell Sharon@SeenUptown.com www.sharondowell.com Music editor Queen City Syndicate www.QueenCitySyndicate.com Fotography director Ryan Sumner/Fenix Fotography FenixFoto@SeenUptown.com www.fenixfoto.com design wrangler Little Shiva shivita@mac.com www.littleshiva.com
OOPS We messed up – sorry! Photographer George Lainis didn't get credit for pics of the seen uptown launch party we used in the last issue. His were the ones with the “seen” background.
photomontage: Little Shiva
seen
When the cultural campus surrounding the new Levine Center for the Arts was completed in 2010, the final piece was in place to secure Tryon Street as Charlotte's “cultural mile.” Performing arts venues, museums, theatre and studio space now stretch end-to-end from the Mint Museum and Harvey B. Gantt Center on the south end to the McColl Center in the north. Tryon Street now boasts a wide array of cultural options unlike anything the city has seen before. Peppered in are dining and nightlife options that, on their own, have created an energetic and lively mix. Surprisingly, much of this new life has sprung up in what has been the worst economy in eighty years. The skyline has changed with new, unique and interesting architecture: ultra-modern skyscrapers with electrifying light shows, “green” buildings with seemingly translucent skin, whimsical statues, public art and options for adults and kids alike. In this issue we celebrate the cultural scene in the center city and the diverse architecture now found in all four wards. We’ll show you living spaces that inspire like art itself and bring you fashion that’s both colorful and festive. We’ll take a look at some of the great new buildings inside the loop, introduce you to local theatre companies and spoken word aficionados working hard to inspire. As well, we'll take you inside the NASCAR Hall of Fame and explore the city’s arts district, NoDa. This is only a glimpse of what's happening and evolving in the Queen City. As summer rolls in, consider checking out and participating in the growing cultural movement. As always, we welcome your comments, thoughts, photos and story ideas. —TJ and Scott
seen uptown – 5
photomontage: Little Shiva
David Aaron Moore Senior Editor David Aaron Moore has more than 15 years of journalism experience under his belt. He has served as an editor for such Atlanta publications as Etcetera, Jezebel, and Southern Voice. His works have been published in Atlanta Magazine, Charlotte Magazine, Creative Loafing and The Atlanta Journal Constitution. Also a native of Charlotte, he is the author of “Charlotte: Murder Mystery and Mayhem” from History Press. Read more at www. davidaaronmoore.com
6 – seen uptown
Glenn T. Griffin Glenn T. Griffin is a local actor/director/playwright, and is Artistic Director for Queen City Theatre Company. He was born in New Jersey, raised outside of London, and went to university at both UNCC and Kingston University in the UK. Some of the plays he's directed in Charlotte are: Sordid Lives, Southern Baptist Sissies, Dangerous, Evita, Grey Gardens, and he will be directing and acting in the musical Chess in May. More at www. queencitytheatre.com
Joey Hewell Joey Hewell was the first graduate of the Aveda Institute in Charlotte and has been immersed in the Charlotte fashion scene ever since. He owns his own styling boutique and salon, J Studio, in SouthEnd, hosts “Fashion Fridays” each week on Fox News Rising, and is our Fashion Editor. His work can be seen on runway and print and often is of his own design or re-design for vintage clothing. Find Joey at JStudioSouthend.com.
Josh McCorkle Josh McCorkle is a Charlotte native, freelance writer, and stayat-home dad. A graduate of UNCC, Josh spent a over decade working in the local printing industry until the call of the written word, and the opportunity to chase a dream, became too loud to ignore. He is currently working on his first novel. Josh lives in South Charlotte with his wife and children.
LunahZon Photography LunahZon Photography is the result of letting A.D.D. go unmedicated and encouraging its by-products. Partners in both life and business, Debby Flores and Jeremy Deal enjoy being “different” and thrive on life's variety. Easily described as grateful, spontaneous, happy, and excited, they're ready for any adventure, even those that involve dark alleys and awkward situations because a little light makes everything better. More at www. lunahzon.com
Ryan Sumner As creative director of Fenix Fotography, Ryan specializes in eye-catching advertising images for businesses–from gastroenterologists to ghost hunters. His fashion and editorial work has appeared in numerous local and national publications and on the websites of MTV, Maxim, VH1, SMET, and Ed Hardy (when Ed Hardy was cool). He’s also written five books combining his love of history and photography. More at www.fenixfoto.com.
Scott Lindsley Scott is a born and bred Charlottean. “Charlotte is an exciting and diverse place that has grown exponentially during my lifetime. It's an exciting growth that I’ve thrived on.” That’s his description of the changes he’s seen and as publisher and editor of Seen Uptown he strives to show the varied lives and lifestyles found in the Queen City. He lives and works in the historic Wilmore neighborhood in SouthEnd (www. liveinwilmore.com) where his garden, dogs and friends are his passion.
Sharon Dowell Sharon is a painter, public art creator, curator and was director of the muchmissed Center of the Earth Gallery. She will be a summer affiliate at the McColl Center for Visual Art starting this month and welcomes you to visit her in her studio there. She exhibits nationally and can be found at art-centered events throughout the city. To learn more and see her work visit www. SharonDowell.com.
TJ Larsen When TJ first moved to Charlotte in 1998, he was set on becoming a graphic designer and copywriter. His passion for the creative is voiced through marketing with his day job, owner of My Townhome Realty, which provides unique opportunities to get knee-deep in all things creative. Publishing Seen Uptown Magazine adds yet another creative outlet. His fuel and inspiration for the content is Uptown life, arts, fashion, music and culture. After selling that way of life in real estate for 13 years this is the perfect new vehicle for his creative side. More at www.tjlarsen.com
Tenisha Jones Tenisha Jones more than likely played with pens rather than a rattle as a child. Her passion has always been creative writing. As a local spoken word artist, she has a way with words that silences the crowd due to her confronting controversial issues. As a full-time sales professional, single mother and community activist, Tenisha’s contact within diverse interest groups gives her a wealth of trendy topics to analyze.
contributors seen uptown – 7
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10 – seen uptown
Like a circus rolling into town sans the live animals, the interactive exhibition “Niki de Saint Phalle: Creation of a New Mythology� rolled into town on March 12.The sculptures hoisted into place at The Green across South Tryon from The Bechtler Museum compliment our most recent uptown icon and guardian of the museum, Firebird, by the same creator. In addition to the five pieces for the outdoor exhibit, the fourth-floor gallery inside the museum is host to 55 more prints, sculptures, and paintings by de Saint Phalle. The exhibit runs from March 18 through October 3.
life uptown story by TJ Larsen / pictures by Fenix Fotography
Drawn to the home of NASCAR, Bruce and Glenda Silver moved to North Carolina from New Jersey in 2005. In 1988 Bruce founded Racing Electronics, a company specializing in the manufacturing and sales of communications equipment and technology for automotive racing. Their first move lead them to Davidson, where they still enjoy the feeling of community, the mix of country and city and the proximity to company headquarters in Concord. In 2010 the Silvers were drawn to a second residence in Uptown Charlotte. For them, the timing was perfect. As recent empty nesters they could spend more time exploring center city without taking time away from their family.They had been visiting regularly for years and were seeking an opportunity to spend more time in this vibrant area. In addition, Bruce felt that the sluggish housing market was the perfect opportunity to invest in Uptown real estate. Bruce and Glenda do not plan to sell their home in Davidson. They are not looking to give up the single family home lifestyle and lose the yard, but Uptown is a great escape.They look forward to spending more time there. When asked what prompts a visit to Uptown, the answer comes quickly. “Any excuse is welcome, this 12 – seen uptown
interview (held at their Uptown home) was a great excuse for Glenda and I to meet you in Uptown and spend the evening.” The search for an Uptown home lead the Silvers to The Ratcliffe, a luxury building on South Tryon Street surrounded by offices, museums, a park, theatre and all the energy they were hoping for to complement their lifestyle.The Ratcliff is home to some of Charlotte’s most recognizable families and the homeowners treat their building with respect. There is a tremendous pride of ownership that is apparent when you visit the building. After purchasing their home they immediately began to personalize it to their tastes. They removed walls to improve the flow and create a casual, yet elegant feel. They enlarged the master suite by minimizing an oversized closet, which allowed for more room to take advantage of the stunning eighth-floor view from the sleeping quarters. Hardwood floors were replaced. The kitchen received new granite and backsplash. Sheetrock corners were rounded, the master bath retiled and a custom fireplace mantel tied it all together. Finally, the home received technology updates to bring it into 2011 and beyond, with every cutting edge advance in home theatre and entertainment.
Bruce and Glenda Silver on their balcony overlooking The Green
The Silvers further personalized their home by adding art collected from trips around the world. The condominium is filled with works from Emile Bellet, Itczhak Tarkay, Jean Claude Picot, Linda Le Kinff and Peter Max. The works fill the space and complete the final vision. With these finishing touches added, Bruce and Glenda are right at home in a space that is truly their own. When asked what their favorite venues or activities are in Uptown, Bruce and Glenda have a refreshing response: although they enjoy attending Panthers games and Bobcats games or shows at the Cable Box, Knight Theatre and Belk Theatre, it is clear that Bruce and Glenda are still exploring Uptown and are not committed to a routine for each visit. For them, the city is new and exciting and they do whatever strikes their fancy. There is, however, one constant. Bruce and Glenda take every opportunity they can to frequent Ruth’s Chris. They say the staff at Ruth’s Chris goes above and beyond and truly welcome them to their home away from home. The addition of the Levine Center for the Arts beside the Ratcliff has been positive for Bruce and Glenda.When they initially purchased their home the campus was just being completed. Since then, they've noticed a marked increase in traffic and the visitors are great additions to the Uptown landscape.The area feels full and vibrant, as visitors to the campus attend different events throughout the day and into the evening. Often they spill into The Green (the Park set right in front of the Ratcliffe) and fill the surrounding streets. At the end of the day we spent some time on the terrace overlooking The Green and historic SouthEnd. From this spot Bruce and Glenda have enjoyed the change in seasons, the crowds to the cultural campus and the pleasure of watching families visit the ice skating rink during winter. Life surrounds the Silvers in their home in the sky. They now enjoy the center city lifestyle that so many others have discovered before them. Welcome home Bruce and Glenda! Life Uptown is a monthly column spotlighting Queen City residents that choose to live and play in the center city. Suggestions or comments? Write to tj@mytownhome.com.
14 – seen uptown
seen in
theatre story by Glenn T. Griffin
Why?
That is the question I hear most often when I tell people that I direct, act and produce theatre in Charlotte. “But why Charlotte?” they ask. It’s amazing how many people that live here don’t know there is an active and thriving theatre scene going on. Each week, theatre is produced all over the city. If you’re missing it, you’re missing out on some amazing world class experiences.There is nothing like live theatre, and Charlotte has companies in town that produce works that can rival those of much larger cities such as Atlanta, Washington, Chicago and New York. In January of 2007 Kristian Wedlowski and I started Queen City Theatre Company (QCTC).Working together for the past four years, our mission is to bring the human experience to life. QCTC is a resident company at the Blumenthal Performing Arts Center at Spirit Square in the Duke Energy Theatre.The Duke is an intimate space that can seat about 160 theatregoers at a time, and I love working there. Imagine hearing Eva Peron sing “Don’t Cry For Me Argentina.” You’re mere inches away from her and watching tears pour from her eyes as she realizes she is going to die. As an audience member once told me, she had seen Evita produced both on Broadway and in London, and only here in Charlotte did the passion of the characters have such an impact on her. Being so close to the action can be a moving experience for an audience – especially if you are experiencing a character driven story. Over the past four years, QCTC has produced works that tell the human story no matter the race, 16 – seen uptown
religion or sexual orientation. We’ve done comic works such as: “Sordid Lives,” and “Die, Mommy, Die!” as well as “Dog Sees God.” We challenged our audiences with controversial theatre such as “Southern Baptist Sissies” and “Dangerous” (an all-male version of “Dangerous Liaisons”) and brought such dramas as “Rope” and “Educating Rita” to life. We also produce two musicals a year, and to keep with our mission, we scale them down to make them more about the people and the story than about overblown sets, which is what most musicals over the past ten years seem to be about. At Duke Energy we’ve laughed and cried with Big and Little Edie Beale in “Grey Gardens.” Now we’ll be producing the regional premiere of the London version of the musical “Chess,” starting May 19 and continuing through June 11. It’s not uncommon to find Kristian and I building sets in the living room of our townhouse, costumes hanging up in the dining room and freshly painted set pieces and props drying on the porch outside. If you are familiar with the story of “Grey Gardens,” then you can imagine that with all of the set pieces and props, my own house was beginning to slowly resemble the dilapidated East Hamptons mansion made famous in the classic documentary. There was even a time during the construction of the set where I was afraid I had lost my small dog Alfie in the mass of vines and lattice work. Kristian even had me sacrifice a couch to the dumpster because he needed more room to build walls for Angela Arden’s Hollywood mansion in the comedy, “Die Mommie Die!”
Kris and I do a lot of work, but like most theatres in town, we have a host of volunteers that help us out. Most of the actors, designers, choreographers and backstage crew are volunteers, but don’t let the word volunteer fool you. Many of those involved in Charlotte theatre are highly skilled professionals, some with bachelors or masters degrees in the field of arts. They are working professionals by day and artists by night, giving up hours of personal time in order to be part of a production. It’s like a second job for most people, but they don’t care, as long as they are doing the one thing they are passionate about. Over the course of the eight years that I have lived in Charlotte, I have seen several theatre companies come and go, but the spark of creation seems to be stronger than ever in our growing metropolis. In addition to QCTC, two of my favorite and most innovative theatre companies in town are Actors Theatre of Charlotte and Carolina Acting Studio Theatre (CAST). Each produces year-round seasons, and works for varying tastes. Now celebrating 22 years in season, Actors Theatre of Charlotte (ATC), is the region’s only professional theatre dedicated to performing material for adults. Located at 650 E. Stonewall Avenue, ATC’s mission is to “connect with people through the presentation of bold and innovative new works by contemporary playwrights who share their respect for language and humanity.” Actors Theatre produces five to six shows a year, which tend to be comedies and dramas by emerging and current playwrights, as well as small cast campy musicals. Whenever I visit them, I know I’m up for a good time.
CAST is as well known for their elaborately showthemed lobby as they are for the high quality work done there. Presenting shows that are both classics and modern, CAST seems always willing to take a risk, which is what I love.They have two intimate theatre spaces, and often use multi-media in their productions.They show that creativity doesn’t have limitations when we think outside the box. CAST is moving from 1118 Clement Avenue to new digs at 2424 N.Davidson Street, suite 113 – that's the NoDa building at 28th Street and Yadkin Avenue. Without a doubt there is a lot of theatre going on in Charlotte, and the community and talent pool is not only growing, but overflowing with talented professionals. We have volunteer theatres producing professional caliber theatre each month and each week. Practically every day there is something to see. You just need to know where to look. Being involved in the arts in the Queen City is not only about our personal aspirations but it’s the sense of community that lives in our hearts.We want the local arts and culture scene to grow at the same pace this beautiful city is growing and we all have a vision of where we want Charlotte to be in the next decade. It is this vision that drives our passion and dedication to theatre.This is why I produce theatre. This is why I direct. When we stand in the wings and we see the Duke Energy Theatre completely sold out, with audiences laughing, crying and releasing their emotions, our eyes become teary.You can’t help but think you’ve done your own little share to help Charlotte theatre grow, one patron at a time. seen uptown – 17
photo: Cortez Williams
18 – seen uptown
Must Love Dogs In Bed The guy I’m dating says it’s “disgusting” and “troubling” that I let my dogs sleep in the bed with us, and he refuses to stay over unless they sleep on the floor. Trust me, this is not a simple matter of buying my dogs a nice dog bed, but a matter of an otherwise great guy not understanding or respecting my relationship with them. (This happened with the last two guys I’ve dated.) —Two-Dog Night A guy can respect that your dogs are important to you and still feel that the ideal bedmate isn’t something that spent the evening licking a dead squirrel and then going around sniffing all its friends’ butts. If your priorities are such that you’d kick a great guy out of bed before you’d roust a Great Dane, you’d better understand and accept that you’re narrowing your choice of men.You might consider whether you have some ulterior motive for putting your dogs between you and these guys. It is easier to have a “relationship” when conversation is “Woof,” “Sit,” and “Treat?” instead of “So why do you think you have issues with intimacy?” It’s possible you’re just one of those intense dog people, like the woman who had her French poodle’s headstone inscribed “Disappointed by humans, never by my dog.” Well, okay. But, I bet she never had a boyfriend who peed on the rug, chewed her expensive shoes, and licked up his own vomit. © 2011, Amy Alkon, all rights reserved. Got a problem? Write Amy Alkon, 171 Pier Ave, #280, Santa Monica, CA 90405, or e-mail AdviceAmy@aol.com (www.advicegoddess.com) Read Amy Alkon's book: “I SEE RUDE PEOPLE: One woman's battle to beat some manners into impolite society” (McGraw-Hill, $16.95). photomontage: Little Shiva
Pictures from our readers, clockwise from top left: Kevin Womack (flickr), LunahZon Photography (lunahzon.com), Michael J. Flanagan (world wide flan, flickr) and Watermelon W. (flickr). Want in? Go here: www.flickr.com/groups/ seen-uptown/
On Friday, March 11, Seen Uptown Magazine had its launch party at Dharma Lounge in SouthEnd. Thanks to everyone who came out to celebrate our first issue hitting the streets! 22 – seen uptown
I can help you find a home... As a buyers agent I help clients find great deals on great properties all over the city.
From classic bungalows in the Historic Dis-
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Great Dane Friends of Ruff Love Please email us at: greatdanefriend@yahoo.com Huntersville, NC
SWIPER’S BIO: I’m around two years old. Im hearing and visually impaired to some degree. My foster family is teaching me sign language and I’m currently learning to sit and stay. I walk nicely on a leash and even walk with my foster mom next to the baby stroller. I LOVE my crate! Its my safe place and I go in it to hang out or nap. I’m great with all dogs but take a little time to warm up to humans. Once I get to know you a little, I’m perfectly fine.
MACIE’S BIO: I’m a playful 1.5 year old brindle girl who was found as a stray on Black Friday and taken to the local shelter where no one claimed me. I’m good with other dogs, big and small, and like to play with them. I’m also good with cats, kids, men AND women!! I love to play fetch, walk and run on leash. I can “sit” and “shake” on command. I’m also crate trained and house broken. If you’re interested in me, contact my rescue friends!!
SPECIAL NEEDS PUP APOLLO’S BIO: Apollo is a dane in need. He has balance issues that we believe are being caused by a disc injury (see updates below). He will be has been seen by a specialist and is being treated and responding wonderfully!
Hey everyone!!! Apollo here! Just a quick update on me. My rescue friends and vet say that I’ve responded incredibly well to the steroids that the vet put me on.
MIYA’S BIO: I’m a 2 year old dane/ pointer mix who lost her family when they went and had a human baby bummers! They were worried that my energy and bouncy nature might end up accidently hurting the baby. I’m is VERY exuberant sometimes, so she probably wouldn’t be the best match right now for little kids. I would be a great running buddy or maybe an agility dog - a bit of physical activity to burn off some energy, plus some work with basic obedience and socialization would be perfect for me.
TO FIND OUT MORE ABOUT RESCUES IN OUR AREA VISIT: THE HUMANE SOCIETY OF CHARLOTTE: WWW.HUMANESOCIETYOFCHARLOTTE.ORG AMERICAN PIT BULL FOUNDATION: WWW.AMERICANPITBULLFOUNDATION.COM PROJECT HALO: WWW.PROJECTHALO.NET OUT OF HARM’S WAY: WWW.OUTOFHARMSWAY.TRIPOD.COM BICHON FRISE CLUB OF AMERICA CHARITABLE TRUST: WWW.BICHONRESCUE.ORG GREAT DANES FRIENDS OF RUFF LOVE: WWW.GREATDANEFRIENDS.COM/ COALITION TO UNCHAIN DOGS: WWW.UNCHAINDOGS.NET
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NoDa: No place like it story by Lauren Blake, pictures by Scott Lindsley
It’s not a white picket fence neighborhood. This is no place to park soccer mom vans. Not a “girl next door” kind of place, either. This is NoDa: a place filled with the sound of chatty pedestrians, the smell of bar food and beer on tap. It has the feel of a generation long gone, but whose faded jeans still hang on the rack of the corner consignment store. Today, NoDa is an alternative Charlotte hot spot for young artists, musicians, and creative souls. As one of the few National Historic Register Districts in the area, it’s home to a wide array of young visionaries and older nostalgics. NoDa is also the stage for a recurring popular act in town: the gallery crawl. On the first Friday of every month, Charlotteans from around the city gather in the quaint district on North Davidson and 36th Street to explore local art. Vendors line the street with tables showcasing
homemade goods: bead work, drawings, knitted items and photographs. In a place like this, anything goes. Shops and galleries leave their does open and lights on unusually late, inviting art aficionados and shoppers to take a look around. Live music often fills the few blocks of the tiny district, but the impact is anything but small. Onlookers stop, lend an ear and sometimes even share a dance with a neighboring partner. Soon, the makeshift outdoor stage is surrounded by an enthusiastic crowd. Cheers, laughter, whistles and raised arms urge the musicians to rock on. “The gallery crawl hasn’t always been what it is today,” says longtime NoDa resident Aaron Willis.“Most of the galleries have been pushed out of the main areas on Davidson,The focus has turned to the streets [with] selling along the street in front of the bars, restaurants, worldly art shops, bicycle shop, and the Historic Fire House.” seen uptown – 25
It’s not just the gallery crawl that has changed over the years. In fact, NoDa as a whole has undergone tremendous growth and rejuvenation from its early days as a textile community, to being the hot social ticket in town. Although changed, NoDa still remains reminiscent of the past. An old brick cotton mill on the railroad is now home to a plethora of renters, who live in urban lofts with 20 foot ceilings, concrete floors, floor-to-ceiling windows and touches of exposed brick, beams and piping. Perhaps the charm of yesterday is what keeps visitors and residents coming back. But maybe it’s much more than that. “I moved back because NoDa offers me the opportunity to express myself in many art forms other than music,” says Willis, the lead singer of rock band Weedeater Deluxe. “I see artists that paint on wood, I see landscape artists, metal workers, wood workers and tattoo artists. These all help me discover how good I can be as a musician.” Although art is one of NoDa’s callings, it also seems to be disappearing from its streets. It’s no secret that the art galleries that used to dominate the neighborhood are dwindling. NoDa boutique owner Cindy Harris feels fortunate for the success of the shops and restaurants in the neighborhood, but according to her, not all is rainbows and butterflies for every other gig in town. “The galleries have all been beaten up and abused by the economy,” Harris grimly explains. Although NoDa’s gallery presence may be diminishing, the artistic vibe surely isn’t. Almost every local store, coffeehouse and restaurant has taken matters into their own hands, housing mostly local art to fill the void of the closing galleries. Steve Maleski, owner of Espada Bicycles, had seen three to four NoDa galleries close in the past year. That’s when he decided he wanted to give back to the community: the bicycle shop is now part gallery, with exhibitions rotating about once every month. Next door, Baku Art Gallery, which connects to Fu’s Custom Tattoo, caters to a diverse taste in art, from indie and alternative to fetish and the odd and unusual. Other boutiques, including Ruby’s Gift and Pura Vida, offer not only clothing, gifts and jewelery but also artwork. Even the neighborhood’s popular yogurt joint, Tasty Yo, fills its walls with large paintings for sale. From the local stores’ 26 – seen uptown
contributions to the intricate murals that make up over half the building’s walls, art is clearly still thriving in NoDa. Local artists can be found painting on the front porches of newly renovated homes, many of which are art work themselves. Homes in NoDa range from ultra-modern abodes to cute cottages with wrap-around porches to 1970s bungalows. They're often painted in unlikely hues, from purple to orange. Yard art takes some of the homes from ordinary to extraordinary, where statues and flower beds paint their own unique portrait.There is no such thing as a “cookie-cutter” home in NoDa. The strength of the community has helped it survive as an arts district, against the sad odds of a decline in art galleries. Among the troubles NoDa has faced in the last few years, nightlife is not one of them. Recently, a plethora of new restaurants and bars have opened their doors for NoDa guests to enjoy. Harris is upbeat about the future of the district. “I think it’s going to be the scene to be seen,” she says.”The concept of a ‘Cheers’ environment where ‘everyone knows your name’ in a neighborhood bar, that’s something people still value and we have that here. In NoDa, there’s no VIP treatment, everyone's equal, everyone's fun, you can be dressed up or you can have a mohawk, and you can be at the same table.” Note from the writer: My experience living in NoDa has been pure relief. Spending three years in the University area, I realized an endless array of generic strip malls and chain restaurants were just not my style. I almost lost hope in Charlotte, but after venturing into the neighborhood I now call home, I discovered a little slice of originality in the Queen City. I find happiness in being able to walk my dog down the street, and find genuine people to talk with as I sit and enjoy a coffee at Smelly Cat. I find excitement in Gallery Crawl nights when I’m able to show off my neighborhood’s art and music scene to visiting friends. And most of all, I find satisfaction in driving home to NoDa after a weekend away. It is, in fact, a wonderful feeling to love where you live. And for me, I can truly say that I do. p25: Neighborhood Theatre left, top to bottom: Smelly Cat, North Davidson Street shops, NoDa houses right, top to bottom: Salvador Deli, Sunshine Daydreams, the Puckett mural (detail). Inset: yoga on the lawn
upt o wn Spending a Saturday in Uptown Charlotte used to mean something very different. I’m a Charlotte native, and I’ve been proud to watch center city evolve into a destination. Once upon a time, “Saturday Uptown” to me was wristbands and bar tabs, apps at Cosmo’s, and Red Stripes at The Hut. It started late Saturday night, and ended Sunday morning. My, how five years and two kids will change you. While the Uptown area was exploding with new restaurants, bars, museums, and entertainment complexes, I was changing diapers and reading bedtime stories. Yes, it seems Uptown rolled along just fine without me, but perhaps coming back with new eyes could bring new wonders, new excitement, and new entertainment options for my kids. I recently decided to take a Saturday and rediscover Uptown with my family. Our day began boarding a “choo-choo” at the Sharon Road West light rail station. The crowd was sparse this time of day, but we certainly weren’t the only family with this idea, as probably a third of the passengers were under twelve. We may as well have been riding Tweetsie. My three-year-old daughter even found a little boy who enthusiastically joined her in singing one of those train songs they all somehow know. We probably could have spent the day riding back and forth and had smiles all around, but 25 minutes later we arrived at the 7th Street Station, perfectly placed between Imaginon and a singing parking deck. After pausing to let the girls slap every sky high pink panel and giggle devilishly at their power to produce silly space noises, we crossed the tracks to Imaginon, Charlotte’s children’s library. If you have yet to experience this place, imagine if Willy Wonka had a library. There are three stories of entertainment and education for children of all ages.The first floor holds most of the book collection and a terrific selection of DVDs available to check out. There’s also a toddlers play area, where the crawlers and waddlers meet and mingle, a café with coffee and snacks, and a stage to perform your own puppet show. Scattered throughout
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are tiny computer desks and terminals with cheerful paint jobs and age-appropriate educational games. Imaginon also hosts the McColl Family Theatre where, on a recent weekend, Charlotte's Children’s Theatre presented “Lyle the Crocodile” at 11 a.m. and 1p.m. Lines were forming in the shared lobby downstairs and on the second floor for the early showing, and the kids seemed to be enjoying their surroundings while the grownups held their places in line.The theater frequently hosts plays, classes and interactive programs for kids of all ages, so keep an eye on the website (www.imaginon. org) in the “Programs and Events” section for details on current and upcoming shows. A few tickets were still available for both shows, but it is highly recommended that you purchase in advance, which is easy enough through the website. Since we had an eighteen-month-old in tow with a decidedly brief attention span we opted to save “Lyle” for another day and settled into “The Round for the Family Story Time,” beginning at 10:30 a.m. During the thirty minute program we were treated to books about dogs, a few sing-alongs, hand-clapping, dancing, and a lot of bubbles.The one- to four-year-olds in attendance, and the parents they’d brought along, really enjoyed stretching out on the floor and being drawn into the stories. Due to the smaller crowd here, this is also an excellent place to meet other young parents Uptown. The third floor of Imaginon, known as The Loft, is dedicated to the teen crowd, and delivers with a young adult fiction section, graphic novels, comics, a video game station and ample computers. But the main attraction here is Studio I. This is the place to turn your creative geniuses loose. With individual stations for animation, clay-mation, blue screen technology and music production, their notebook doodles can really come alive. While the staff here is very helpful, all learning is hands on; dive in and create. Saturdays from 10:30 to noon are reserved for families only. Note to parents: you will have to bring your tweens to get in on the fun.
photo: LunahZon Photography
for
kids
Imaginon was a huge hit with my girls, and it wasn't easy getting them to leave, but then again, they had no idea what awaited them just three blocks away: Discovery Place. I had visited the popular children's museum dozens of times when I was a kid with my folks, and on field trips with school, but taking your own is a really amazing experience. This place was built for curious little minds who like to poke, prod, climb on and ride their educational materials. Walking around the main floor feels like a day on the set of “Bill Nye, the Science Guy.” Scores of hands-on, sometimes silly, experiments are designed to teach blooming scientific minds about the fundamentals of the scientific world and put them in the positions of both subject and researcher. The architectural blocks were a big hit with my three-yearold, as were the wind exhibits, and the floating chair. My youngest loved the rainforest with its tropical feel and colorful birds flying about. Don’t forget to head downstairs to the lower level viewing area, where you can get up close to the neon frogs, giant tortoise, and other ground dwelling creatures. Discovery Place also boasts an eclectic aquarium, including an exhibit that allows tiny hands to explore a rotating selection of ocean dwellers. Watching the little girls squirm away from the horseshoe crab while the boys crowded in to touch really brought me back. My girls preferred the jellyfish tank, and the fish who looked like Nemo. When you're ready to take a load off, the best seat in the house is in the Discovery 3-D Theatre, where nature comes to life in a variety of short films beginning every 30 minutes. With older children I would definitely recommend catching a show at the adjoining IMAX Theater. Boasting the largest screen in the Carolinas with state-of-the-art technology, the IMAX is an overwhelming treat for the senses. The movie offerings are always changing so make sure to check the website for show times and tickets.
story by Josh McCorkle
seen uptown – 29
30 – seen uptown
are perfect for cooling those sweltering afternoons. After an hour of running around The Green our youngest had thrown in the towel, climbed in her stroller, and fell fast asleep. In the block-and-a-half walk over to the light rail station at Stonewall Street my three- year-old fell asleep in my arms. Mission accomplished. All in all, it was an absolutely wonderful Saturday Uptown. Very different than those I used to have; night and day you might say. But, holding my kids hands, and pointing out the new and interesting and unusual was a treat for all of us. Uptown Charlotte is also a terrific place to get out and meet your neighbors, learn, explore and show your kids what a great place Charlotte is to live. We’ll definitely do it again soon. Hope to see you out some time!
photo:: Cortez Williams
If you’re bringing children five and under, the Kidscience room is a must see and do experience. This recent addition is a large play room with several themed educational stations, including a water table, a ramp and track to build and race cars; an unusual music section, and one of the world’s largest Light Bright displays. We could have spent hours in here alone, but rumbling tummies told us our time at Discovery Place was up. We stepped out onto Tryon Street to a beautiful afternoon. The sun was shining, temperatures were warming, and all kinds of folks, from all kinds of places, doing all kinds of things, were all around us. Beyond the attractions, this may just be the best reason to share Uptown Charlotte with your kids: the cultural melting pot. There are few neighborhoods around that offer such a diverse and fascinating mingling of families and individuals. Strolling south on Tryon St., my children’s heads were whipping back and forth and up and down to the sights and sounds of an urban concerto. A street magician over here, the soapbox preacher over there, a DJ pumped out a beat while a nine-year-old girl taught my three-year-old to do the “Dougie.” Horse and carriage rides departed from The Square every ten minutes, offering tours of historic Fourth Ward. When you add in the breathtaking skyscrapers and mix of new and old architecture, the trees, the flowers, sidewalk cafés, and fountains, I think Uptown may just be the most scenic walk my kids have taken. We soaked it all in for five blocks as we made our way to lunch at The Green on South Tryon. Nestled in between some of the city’s grandest high rises, this stretch of lawn is perfect for an afternoon picnic. Bring a basket. Or you can grab a hotdog or grilled cheese from Matt’s Chicago Dog on one side of the park, or a slice from Fuel Pizza on the other. After devouring their sandwiches and chicken tenders, my daughters raced off to explore the giant sculptures located throughout the park. The pieces, a small sample from the Creation of a New Mythology exhibit at the Bechtler Museum of Modern Art, were created by Niki de Saint Phalle, who is also the artist behind the now famed “Firebird” sculpture on the museum’s corner. Kids are encouraged to climb and explore the brilliantly colored sculptures, which double as great photo ops (see page 10). During the summer months the park's kid-friendly fountains
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Public art can be found all over SouthEnd. From light rail stops to salon walls, the neighborhood is a feast for the eyes with plenty of color to brighten the urban landscape.
seen uptown – 33
36 – seen uptown
seen uptown – 37
Harold E. Wagoner
story by Scott Lindsley pictures byLunahZon Photography
ARCHITECTURE
The great thing about being an architect is that you can walk into your dreams.
What will the building boom of the 2000s leave those after us to see as our “style”? Charlotte has evidence of eras past that pepper the streetscape and skyline: Victorian, Traditional, Art Deco, Modern and Contemporary. Neighborhoods tell their story too: Craftsman bungalows, brick ranchers and split levels, transitional and stucco, but what will this current period be known as and best known for? Many of the buildings built in the past ten years likely won’t become icons or inspiration for countless photos. Many others will. It’s ironic that many of the best examples of unique and iconic architecture recently completed in Uptown Charlotte weren’t actually completed and added to the skyline in the boom, but rather during the bust. The past couple of years have become known as the “Great Recession” and have been the largest economic downturn in eight decades. So much so that our mighty foundation of banking faltered and nearly fell. Through it all some amazing projects and buildings have been added to our fabric and will likely be symbols not very symbolic of their time. These buildings show creativity and a spirit of passion, vigor and extreme confidence – all at a time when many of us, individuals and businesses alike, had very little of those qualities. From the Levine Center for the Arts, surrounded by a new cultural campus that is home to museums and performing arts centers, to the off-kilter stacked 12-story UNCC “Center City Building” the styles and lines of these new structures are far from homogenous. Not only have the styles been varied, but the placement has been generous as well.The Levine Center for the Arts cultural campus bridges Second and Third Wards,The Vue can be found in Fourth Ward, the new North Carolina Dance Theatre facility sits between First and Fourth Wards, and the UNCC building sits squarely in First Ward. Hotels have added to the mix, each with their own unique look: Aloft, Hotel Sierra and The Ritz-Carlton have joined the skyline.The banks jumped in as well with the Ally Bank building and the new uber-green Bank of America building adjacent to The Ritz. Other high-rise residential projects were also completed in addition to The Vue.The vivid blue Avenue adds much needed color to the skyline core and Courtside Condos toss in a modern, almost “Jetson’s” flair to the easternmost edge of Uptown.
seen uptown – 45
All in all we’ve been very lucky to have continued development and a shifting and inspiring skyline over the past few years. A result, however, of the changing fortunes that the economic crash brought will be a fairly unchanging skyline for the next few years to come.These large projects take years to complete, and with little exception none are on the immediate horizon. For me, at least, the new look that Uptown Charlotte has is fine and will satisfy the hunger for more great architecture for those years just ahead - I’m sure that new plans will be unveiled soon enough to bring the energy and excitement of evolution. Previous page: Duke Energy Center Above: Mint Museum Uptown Right: Knight Theater
46 – seen uptown
Architecture is a social act and the material theater of human activity. Spiro Kostof
Entering its second year, The NASCAR Hall of Fame is turning Charlotte into a major tourist attraction for racing fans. story by Jeff Hawkins, pictures by Sean Busher / NASCAR Hall of Fame Donning a Dale Earnhardt cap, Bob Roman stood before the iconic “No. 3” racing machine, with a smile seemingly as wide as a superspeedway. Roman’s wife, Dawn Ward, took the picture, immortalizing Roman’s long-awaited moment. “So far … great,” Roman said, minutes into his April 11 visit to the NASCAR Hall of Fame. “I’ve been wanting to come since it opened.” The Washburn Island, Ontario, residents ventured a long way – nearly 850 miles – to fit snugly into the second-year growth demographic of Uptown’s new tourist cornerstone: adventurous out-of-towners who discovered the Queen City through their love of stockcar racing history and were initially impressed enough to consider a return visit. “We probably will come back,” Ward said, camera in hand. Really Special On May 11, the NASCAR Hall of Fame celebrated its first anniversary, optimistic to be elevating its quest, and making changes in Charlotte similar to Cooperstown, NY, where the National Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum is located. Efforts there have turned its mid-summer induction ceremonies into an annual pilgrimage for thousands. In time, Kimberly Meesters believes Charlotte will create a similar niche. “There's something here for everyone,” said Meesters, 48 – seen uptown
the Hall’s external relations manager. “We have to better educate the public on what we are. It isn’t just history, it’s present day, it’s playing games and interacting. We are a whole NASCAR experience. I believe that makes Charlotte really special.” Recent visitor feedback confirms the analysis. Of 5,888 respondents, on a five-point scale, the Hall of Fame scored 4.82 on friendliness; 4.77 on exhibits; and 4.15 on overall experience. “We’re impressed,” Meesters says.“Our return rate is astronomical compared to other companies. It tells us we have good product.” And while the recent “Great Recession” certainly played a role in diminished returns on walk-up attendance – through March, the Hall reported 249,186 visitors – Meesters said the Hall’s “business to business and group sales” are strong. “Our biggest challenge is general admission,” Meesters confirmed. “Hands- down, we have a winning product. A high percentage of people are amazed with the technology.” An interactive, high-tech venue, the Uptown museum is 150,000-sq. feet of entertainment, history and heritage, featuring the Charlotte Convention Center and a 19-story office tower. According to Meesters, through 2014, the Hall has booked 72 “large out-of-town meetings” that could generate $224 million to the local economy, plus around 20 smaller business meetings per month.
“I think like any new business, we're building a brand,” Meesters said in a phone interview April 14. “We had lots of successes.” The Hall appears poised to initiate another success, scheduling the 2012 Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony for January, generally a slow news period, and create a red-carpet event that kicks off the upcoming NASCAR season. “We'll have a festive ceremony,” Meesters said. “Very much like Cooperstown.” Second Class Building off the inaugural success last summer, the 2011 Induction Ceremony will be staged May 23 at the Crown Ballroom in the Charlotte Convention Center.
Hailed by the NASCAR Hall of Fame Voting Panel, comprised of the Nominating Committee, 31 industry insiders and a nationwide fan vote, Bobby Allison, Ned Jarrett, Bud Moore, David Pearson and Lee Petty were slated to be enshrined. “The 2011 class contains some of the most iconic names in our sport’s rich history,” said Brian France, NASCAR chairman and CEO. During the ceremony, attendees were reminded of Allison, in 1998, being named one of the sport’s “50 Greatest Drivers,” of his 84 career victories and 1983 series championship. Fans will recall Jarrett, also as a top 50 driver, for his two Winston Cup titles (1961 and ’65), but most seen uptown – 49
recognize the driver patriarch as the popular broadcaster, the 40,000-sq. feet of exhibit space, featuring the Belk who has been hailed as the sport’s voice since his retire- High Octane Theater, the Great Hall & Sunoco Glory ment in 1966. Road, Hall of Honor, Food Lion Race Week and Heritage Moore should be remembered for more than his Speedway. accomplishments as car owner for 37 years and champion “Would you look at this place?” Most tours start crew chief.The Spartanburg, S.C., native earned two Bronze with an “inspirational” movie on the history of NASCAR Stars during WWII as an infantryman shown on a 64-foot, curved projection of the 90th Division. Moore landed A month-by-month screen at the 275-seat theater. at Normandy on D-Day and fought attendance breakdown “The seats sure are comfy.” during the Battle of the Bulge. for Charlotte’s Tabbed the “Times Square” of the Second on the all-time win list NASCAR Hall of Fame: museum, the Great Hall is a continuwith 105 and voted a top 50 driver, 2010 ously evolving display. Paying homage Pearson claimed three series titles May 35,090 to 40 modern and past racetracks, (1966, ’68 and ’69) and experienced a June 28,435 Glory Road emulates the banking at career memory with his 1976 Daytona July 33,452 the different tracks, allowing visitors to 500 victory. August 23,539 walk the inclines at 14 and 33 degrees. Petty’s name alone will ensure September 16,445 Many lose their footing at 33 degrees, he will not be forgotten. The series’ October 27,555 like Talladega Superspeedway. first three-time champion (1954, ’58 November 18,585 “This is crazy.” The next typiand ’59), Petty also claimed the first December 14,636 cal stop is the Hall of Honor, where Daytona 500 in ’59 and was voted 2011 Hall of Fame inductees are celebrated a top 50 driver. As owner of Petty January 23,177 and honored.The 2010 inaugural class Enterprises, he had more than 2,000 February 12,391 included Dale Earnhardt, Bill France starts and 268 victories. March 15,881* Jr., Bill France Sr., Junior Johnson and “The 2011 Induction will be a Total 249,186* Richard Petty. very special ceremony,” France said. *-estimated “I love those guys.” Race Week “We look forward to honoring these is a hands-on exhibit that takes fans five NASCAR legends in front of their friends, family through the pressures of preparing for the race, working and fans.” on the pit crew and driving the track. Kobalt Kids Zone targets young fans. This Is Crazy “Dad, can we do that again? Pleeeeeeaaaase.” “Wow.” To enhance a visit to the Hall of Fame, NASCAR’s six-decade history is outlined at Heritage Hall listen to the emotional reactions of other visitors, their with hundreds of artifacts, highlighting stock-car racing’s excitement over discovering history and their joy over three eras (1948-71, 1972-1999, 2000-present). experiencing, first-hand, what it interactively feels like to “Man, that was cool. Let’s go back.” be a member of a NASCAR team. And they do it within
50 – seen uptown
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CORE collaboration bears fruit story by Sharon Dowell
This page: Drenched Photomontage Diane Hughes and Laura McCarthy. Photo courtesy of the artists Opposite, back, left to right: Raed Al-Rawi, Crista Cammaroto, Diane Hughes, Alex Clark. Front, left to right: Ashley Lathe, Laura McCarthy, Dan Allegrucci. Photo courtesy CORE Cooperative
Walking past the windows on Seventh Street in Uptown might make you stop and take a second look at what you might see: a shovel made of wax, an inverted tree, flying slices of pie? These are artworks in the temporary rotating exhibition of CORE, a McColl Center for Visual Art affiliated cooperative. One of the important goals of the Center's mission is to facilitate collaborative relationships with institutions, businesses, unions, governments, the media, and the community. Suzanne Fetscher, the visionary Executive Director of the McColl Center, has founded several successful programs. Among them are the Innovation Institute, which brings together artists and individuals from the corporate community and unleashes their creative abilities in the workplace. Her latest brainchild is the CORE Cooperative, which provides an avenue for advancing the Center’s artists to the vanguard of contemporary art by offering
an alternative means of professional development. Says Fetscher: “I am delighted there is leadership among the former artists-in-residence for the McColl Center for Visual Ar t to develop and create co-op exhibition opportunities for the large group of former regional artists-in-residence.There are so many talented artists in the Charlotte area and a need for those artists to be able to exhibit and sell their work, while providing the community a chance to see and buy original locallyproduced artwork.” While the Center enjoys a national reputation as an incubator for visual art, it also serves as a hub for contemporary art at home in Charlotte. All former and regional alumni of the Center will be eligible to apply to be part of the collective. Fetscher invited local artists for a round table discussion, and CORE was born. Founding members Raed Al-Rawi, Dan Allegrucci, Crista Cammaroto, Alex Clark, seen uptown – 63
This page: Diane Hughes and Ashley Lathe Mixed media Photo courtesy CORE Cooperative Opposite: Dan Allegrucci and Crista Cammaroto Photography and silkscreen Photo courtesy CORE Cooperative
the theme to be opposite; one preferring a nebulous and one a direct approach. For instance, Cammaroto is known for her intimate self-portrait photography and McCarthy for her organic, cellular based abstract paintings.The two worked to find commonality and compromised, ultimately producing a figurative line drawing on paper, which is something they never would have created alone. The members discovered the challenge of collaboration to be highly beneficial.The artwork of this central Diane Hughes, Ashley Lathe, Laura McCarthy and Felicia group is diverse, yet shares certain qualities: a strong graphic van Bork are all former affiliate artists or artists-in-residence sensibility, emotional accessibility and a metaphoric heft. of the McColl Center for Visual Art. “The artist you collaborate with can be strong where “When the idea was presented to us, we knew we you're weak, and vice versa,” says Diane Hughes. “As wanted to mold Suzanne's vision into a reality,” says Laura individuals, we have great ideas, but collaboration takes McCarthy, Chair of the Board. The artists then met and it to another level.” discussed the idea of collaboration. The group has enjoyed learning how others create, Collaboration is a lovely exercise in creativity and and even incorporating new media into their own bodies growth. We see it throughout history, the mingling of cul- of work. Spin-off projects have even grown from these tures and minds breeding a unique richness that cannot exercises. Look for their public exhibition of collaborative be achieved through individual exploration. The group works in the Seventh Street Windows between Tryon thought about the idea of digging to the core, and their and Church Streets in Uptown Charlotte. first exhibit resulted in the theme of “Groundbreaking.” The artists paired off to work together on unique works of art based upon this theme. It was also a way to get to Core:The Beginning, the first group exhibition know one other and learn about each other's methods. by Core Visual Art, opens May 20, 2011 at Hughes Gallery The process was not always rosy and produced new (2015 Ayrsley Town Blvd, Charlotte, NC 28273 ) and will and unforeseen challenges.The artists were pushed to go run until June 17, 2011. There will be a public reception beyond their comfort zone. Some pairs, like Lathe and from 6 to 9pm. After the reception, work is available by van Bork, found balance between what they already did appointment. Call Diane Hughes at 704.492.9934. For visually. Others found their approach to communicating more details visit www.corevisualart.org. 64 – seen uptown
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