ArtPop Street Gallery to Host 4th Annual Upcycled Fashion Show & Fundraiser 

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ArtPop Street Gallery, an arts nonprofit based in Charlotte, is thrilled to announce its 4th Annual Upcycled Fashion Show. This unforgettable evening of creativity and community will take place on September 14, 2024, at the Sullenberger Aviation Museum, featuring 13 talented local designers who have transformed ArtPop artist billboards into fashion pieces. 

The Upcycled Fashion Show demonstrates ArtPop’s continued commitment to the local arts community and sustainability. ArtPop’s Upcycling Initiative repurposes materials used in ArtPop’s Cities Program – its annual juried exhibition in which 20 local artists are showcased on donated billboards and other public media space throughout the region. With this initiative, ArtPop successfully keeps over 13,400 feet  of vinyl out of landfills annually and creates wearable, statement designs. 

“Our Upcycled Fashion Show is a testament to our community’s creativity and environmental consciousness,” said Wendy Hickey, founder and executive director of ArtPop. “It’s inspiring to see how our artists transform used materials into beautiful, wearable art.” 

ArtPop will welcome Daniel Gonzalez, a renowned Colombian-American womenswear designer based in Charlotte, as the event’s VIP guest speaker. Known for his journey from ballroom dancing to becoming an acclaimed designer, Gonzalez has created ballroom costumes and elegant ready-to-wear collections celebrated for their timeless style. During the VIP reception, Gonzalez will unveil a new piece of fashion he’s created from an ArtPop billboard. 

This year’s runway will feature the talents of local designers, including: 

• I Sew For Food (Terrell Milton, Jr.)
• Alex Lieberman
• Rocio Llusca
• Jamie Lykes II
• Rachel Malasky
• Luko Marion
• Menia Paige (Paige Reeves)
• Isiah Miller
• Que Blankenship
• Sarah Grace Simas (College Student Artist)
• Edelweiss Vogel
• Will White, Jr.
• Brehon Williams
  

  “ArtPop’s Upcycled Fashion Show is more than just a display of talent; it’s a celebration of innovation, sustainability and the power of art to transform communities,” said Hickey. “This event brings together a diverse group of artists, models and designers passionate about making a difference through their craft.” 

VIP ticket holders will enjoy exclusive access to a VIP reception from 5:00 to 6:00 p.m., featuring the VIP guest speaker Daniel Gonzales, a meet-and-greet with host Ohavia Phillips, a first look at the silent auction and art for sale, hors d’oeuvres and premier seating for the fashion show. General admission includes access to the fashion show, live and silent auctions and two drink tickets. 

Proceeds from this sustainable fashion showcase will directly support arts education, community outreach, student scholarships and the ArtPop mentorship program. 

There is no dress code for the event; attendees are encouraged to come as they are, whether casual or dressy. Free on-site and street parking is available on a first-come, first-served basis. 

For more information about the event and to purchase tickets, visit www.eventbrite.com/e/2024-artpop-upcycled-fashion-show-tickets-881134235217. 

Can’t attend in person? Visit www.artpopstreetgallery.com to learn more and support ArtPop’s mission.