Blumenthal to Host 'Meet the Artists' at Spirit Square Next Week

Blumenthal Performing Arts recently honored eight legendary artists from the Carolinas with original art installments at Spirit Square. Local talent was brought in to paint columns in the Spirit Square atrium in tribute of the selected honorees. The previously announced honorees are Maya Angelou, Romare Bearden, James Brown, Dizzy Gillespie, Andy Griffith, Earl Scruggs, Nina Simone, and James Taylor.

Blumenthal invites the public to attend "Meet the Artists" night at Spirit Square (345 N. College St.) on Tuesday, May 24, beginning at 6:30 p.m. Attendees will have the opportunity to meet the local artists who painted the columns and hear more about the honorees. Local poets will also pay tribute to the honorees with special poems written for and presented exclusively at the event.

The painters include Matt Hooker (James Taylor), Catalina Duarte (Dizzy Gillespie), Joe Dobson (Earl Scruggs), John Burgin (Andy Griffith), John Hairston (Romare Bearden), Matt Moore (Nina Simone), Nick Napoletano (James Brown), and Raquel Gaiten (Maya Angelou).

In addition, guests will be the first to learn some exciting news about the 2016 Breakin' Convention CLT during a special announcement.

Admission is free and a full schedule of events is below:

6:30 p.m. - Activities in the Spirit Square Plaza including graffiti art, dance cyphers, and more

7:30 p.m. - Column presentations

7:45 p.m. - Announcement about 2016 Breakin' Convention CLT

8 p.m. - Mingle with local artists in the Spirit Square atrium

Blumenthal Performing Arts serves the Carolinas as a leading cultural, entertainment and education provider. For more information, call (704) 372-1000 or visit BlumenthalArts.org. Blumenthal Performing Arts receives operating support from the Arts & Science Council and North Carolina Arts Council. Blumenthal Performing Arts is also supported by PNC Bank, sponsor of the PNC Broadway Lights.