ART ON THE MOVE: New Art Cart Rolling in NoDA
By Makayla Binter
Clayton Sealey of CLT Development with the Art Cart
Painting a “Louis Vuitton shopping cart” as a creative project, Charlotte artist Matt Alvis, (a.k.a. @stencilspray on Instagram) had a bold idea.
While working, he thought about the state of Charlotte’s art district along North Davidson St (NoDa for short). Recently, he’s seen long-time creative staples in the area closing their doors.
Alvis is the founder of the Tough Ass Crew (TAC) Gallery. He created TAC Gallery as the pandemic affected vending opportunities for artists at festivals and markets alike. He saw a need and acted. He created a place for artists without their own space to sell their work. He helped build a market for it.
Two years later, he sees another need. As he was facing having to vacate his own space. he thought of the possibilities that existed within empty spaces sprinkled along the strip – from walls to empty spaces and windows.
Selling Art With A Cart (Literally)
Matt Alvis
In vacant windows, normally covered by brown paper, Alvis posted printed art. Since starting, he’s showcased the work of more than 20 artists. Each piece features a QR Code that leads you to an online store to purchase the work shown in the window.
And, that’s where Alvis goes mobile; using his completed Louis Vuitton shopping cart. When art is purchased from the online inventory, Alvis delivers it to the buyer using the art cart. In-person deliveries are in NoDa only. Alvis hopes to encourage visitors to NoDa to go from window shoppers to online shoppers with (relatively) instant gratification.
Businesses On Board
An outside art station
Fourteen businesses – restaurants, bars, tattoo shops, and apartment complexes – are participating in the test of Alvis’ Art Cart.
He is especially excited about the possibility of helping new NoDa residents decorate their homes or apartments. Online Art Cart customers arrange for art to be delivered to their homes the next day.
The cart will be tested throughout the month of October to test “app-to-table deliveries,” with Alvis planning to launch full-time service on Nov. 1.
Take Part in the Cart
To view available works and learn more about participating artists, use the links below.
Meet Stencil Spray
Matt Alvis was recently a guest on WBTV’s QC at 3 with Dr. Cheryl Brayboy and Matt Olin, co-founder of Charlotte Is Creative, sharing his plans for the Art Cart. Click the image to watch the segment.
