The traveling exhibition Art, Beats + Lyrics (AB+L) is returning to Charlotte for the first time in seven years, scheduled for March 28 at Blume Studios. Founded in Atlanta over two decades ago, the event merges visual art with hip-hop culture, featuring a curated selection of contemporary works alongside live musical performances and immersive installations. This year’s stop features headliner Premo Rice and is curated by Dwayne “Dubelyoo” Wright, marking a significant homecoming for a tour that considers Charlotte one of its foundational markets.
The event serves as a vital cultural touchstone for the Black creative community, offering a rare space where hip-hop and fine art intersect outside of traditional academic or museum settings. For local artists like Dammit Wesley, AB+L has been instrumental in redefining how Black art is presented and consumed, bridging the gap between nightlife and the gallery world. Its return signals a revitalized engagement with Charlotte’s urban arts scene and highlights the ongoing influence of hip-hop on the contemporary visual art canon.