Art Gallery
Jon Norris
Born on a spring Baltimore morning in 1983, Jon Norris' artistic talents blossomed early, nurtured by his father's ingenuity and his grandmother Bonnie's artistic patience. Watching Bonnie paint ignited his self-taught passion. In 2009, with only five dollars, Jon moved from rural Eastern North Carolina to Charlotte, a pivotal move that fueled his artistic growth. His first ceiling mural at Church & Union led to a mention in a New York Times feature. Now a family man, Jon has transitioned from acrylic to oil paint and explores mixed media sculpture. Beyond his dark satire, he finds deep fulfillment in painting eulogy portraits for those grieving.
Vance Harden
Vance's creative journey began as a child and developed over the years. At UNC Charlotte, Vance focused on illustration, and since then has crafted his own artistic voice by bringing together work as a graphic designer, carpenter, and painter. Craftsmanship has become a lost art in our society. Vance's focus on craftsmanship allows him to slow down and engulf himself in every brushstroke, cut, or nail. The work explores historical stories and inner human struggles, but with a twist—bright, hopeful colors light up these sometimes heavy themes, drawing viewers in visually before revealing deeper stories.. What makes Vance's work distinctive is the blend of traditional craftsmanship with contemporary design thinking, creating art that bridges technical disciplines while remaining loose and impactful.
Brie Uzzel
Brie Uzzell was born in Charlotte, NC and grew up in Clover, SC with her two brothers, sister, and parents. As soon as Brie could hold a pencil, she was creating drawings and characters, eventually exploring other mediums as she became obsessed with art making. With the guidance of her dad, who had once been a graphic and product designer, and the support of her mom, Brie decided to go to school for the arts. While studying art, Brie discovered her surrealist style, which highlights the human form in partnership with the fantastical imagination. Brie often uses graphic style in combination with realism, inspired by her love of comic books. After graduating Summa Cum Laude with a degree in studio art in 2015 from the College of Charleston, Brie worked as a freelance illustrator and a Community Programs Coordinator at the Bechtler Museum of Modern art in Charlotte, NC. This five-year period sparked her love of teaching, especially to traditionally underserved populations. Today, Brie works as the Programs & Partnerships Manager at Southminster Retirement and oversees the art programming for seniors, curating exhibits, coordinating performing arts events and occasionally teaching workshops. When not working or creating, you can find Brie running races covered in glitter or singing Elton John karaoke with her friends. Brie currently lives in East Charlotte with her husband, who is her biggest cheerleader, and her three fur babies, who keep her company when she paints.
