Charlotte SHOUT! 2024 Showcases Black Artists in the Queen City
A vibrant celebration of art, food, fashion, and culture is underway in Charlotte as the city plays host to the third annual Charlotte SHOUT! festival. From March 29 to April 14, the Queen City will be a hub of creativity and innovation, with a focus on highlighting the diverse talents of the local art community.
SHOUT! Chic’s Fashion Row
One of the key highlights of this year’s Charlotte SHOUT! is SHOUT! Chic’s Fashion Row, organized by fashion designer and illustrator Will White in collaboration with Charlotte Center City Partners. This inaugural fashion event aims to shine a spotlight on Charlotte’s homegrown designers and the burgeoning fashion landscape in the city.
Designers participating in SHOUT! Chic’s Fashion Row will showcase their work in a streetwear pop-up shop and live interactive demonstrations, offering attendees a glimpse into the creative process behind fashion design.
Featured Designers
Among the talented Black artists showcasing their work at SHOUT! Chic’s Fashion Row is Janelle “Jay” Jarvis of PatchworkQueen, who thrives in Charlotte’s burgeoning fashion scene. Jarvis emphasizes the unique platform that Charlotte provides for fashion designers to be seen and heard, thanks to initiatives like SHOUT! Chic’s Fashion Row.
Another designer, Anise Augustin, the creator of Dark Matter, is drawn to the spirit of collaboration among artists in Charlotte. Augustin highlights the sense of community and support among creatives in the city, which creates a conducive environment for growth and recognition.
Designer Alexander Lieberman, known for his brand AWL Implements, finds inspiration for his creations from his personal style journey and life experiences. His unique approach to fashion design reflects his passion for exploration and self-expression.
A Personal Journey
For designer Jamie Lykes II, fashion has been a lifelong passion rooted in a desire to create unique and stylish pieces. Lykes draws inspiration from his mother and her struggle with lupus, using fashion as a form of expression and empowerment.
KA’Zen, a multidisciplinary artist, brings a unique fusion of Japofuturism and Afrofuturism with Japanese influences to the fashion landscape of Charlotte. His innovative style reflects a vision for the future and a celebration of cultural diversity.
Exploring Creativity and Expression
Charlotte SHOUT! offers a platform for artists to experiment with their style, showcase new concepts, and engage with the community. The festival aims to go beyond surface reactions to art and encourage attendees to delve deeper into the meaning and creativity behind each design.
Through initiatives like SHOUT! Chic’s Fashion Row, Charlotte is becoming a vibrant hub for creative expression and artistic collaboration. The festival serves as a testament to the rich creative talent present in the Queen City and the dynamic art scene that continues to thrive and evolve.
For those attending Charlotte SHOUT!, the experience promises to be a celebration of art, culture, and innovation, as Black artists take center stage in showcasing their diverse talents and unique perspectives within the vibrant tapestry of the Queen City.