The VAPA Center, Charlotte’s largest artist hub, just announced its grand reopening after a transformative $1.7 million renovation funded by Mecklenburg County.“This investment by Mecklenburg County underscores the vital role the VAPA Center plays in Charlotte’s cultural landscape,” said Arthur Rogers, Jr., Executive Director of the VAPA Center. “With these, we’re ensuring a thriving, accessible space for artists to create, collaborate, and engage with the community as we solidify our role as the north end anchor to the creative mile.”
The milestone coincides with VAPA’s 3rd anniversary, known as VAPAversary, which will be commemorated with a special ribbon-cutting ceremony on April 5, 2025. The public is invited to join the VAPA Center at noon on the 5th.
Since its public opening in 2022, the Visual and Performing Arts (VAPA) Center has been a home to over 350 artists, providing studio space, galleries, and performance areas. The 80-year-old former Sears Department Store and Mecklenburg County Services building required renovations including installing a Dedicated Outside Air Supply (DOAS) HVAC Unit, and upgrading the fire alarm and emergency communication systems. Additional improvements included egress and security, as well as some new flooring, doorways, lighting, water fountains, electrical, and plumbing, further enhancing the center’s mission to support the local arts community and welcome community partners.
