Why Ciel? Why Charlotte?

Ciel Gallery was founded in 2008 with three goals: to give mosaic artists a place to exhibit their work, to provide quality art instruction, and to educate the public about a much misunderstood art form.

In 2011, Ciel expanded into an exceptional gallery space with a large and well-stocked classroom as well as a beautiful private studio and private parking.

Our goals have remained much the same -- only bigger. In 2012 we brought in 4 renowned visiting artists for sold-out workshops and exhibited art by internationally known and collected mosaicists. We have a strong base of students who've been with us since the early days, as well as bringing in enthusiasts from as far away as South America.

Ciel is located in the Southend Arts District of lovely and genteel Charlotte - one mile south of Uptown with such cultural delights as Bechtler Museum of Modern Art, Mint Museum of Art, African American Cultural Center, Blumenthal and Knight Performance Centers, Spirit Square, and Discovery Place. Directly to the east you'll find three of Charlotte's oldest and most charming neighborhoods, tree-lined boulevards, cafes, shops, and the famed Booty Loop, a vibrant and wide-used bike and walking path along some of Charlotte's prettiest streets.

Known as a banking town (think money!), Charlotte has prospered from an influx of 30-somethings, adding the National Whitewater Center to our Speedway, artisanal foods to our barbecue haunts, and a healthy dose of funk to our art scene.

Recommended accommodations range from hotels in the SouthPark Mall area (convenient to shopping and dining) to The Duke Mansion Bed and Breakfast in a beautiful Charlotte neighborhood for walking, and only a block from several excellent dining options. Both areas are about three miles from the gallery; other options on the Light Rail are available. For a closer look at transportation, accommodations, public mosaics and a custom map of the area, click here.

In 2013, look for Visiting Artists Carol Shelkin, Sherri Warner Hunter, Laurel Skye, Emma Biggs, and Yulia Hanansen. Also please check out upcoming exhibitions; more info here. We'll be taking on at least one public project, and several community partnerships, leading two mosaic retreats abroad, and spearheading a district-wide art show. 2013, we're ready! How about you?

We'd love to see you!