Family First: Black Dandyism - Style, Culture & Creative Expression

Join us for an exciting, family-friendly workshop that explores the history and cultural power of Black dandyism, a bold fashion movement rooted in self-expression, pride, and resistance. Emerging in the late 1800s and 1900s and gaining momentum during the Harlem Renaissance, Black dandyism encouraged Black men and women to challenge stereotypes and show creativity, and confidence through fashion.

In this interactive session, participants will learn about the significance of Black dandy style and create their own fabulous looks using paper croquis, fashion paper dolls. Participants will mix and match fabric scraps, colorful cut paper, and unique embellishments to design bold, stylish outfits that reflect individuality and flair.

Whether you're a budding fashion designer or just love getting creative, this workshop is all about celebrating identity, culture, history, and the art of dressing with purpose.

Family First is presented by Novant Health

Michelle "Bunny" Gregory, is an artist from Charlotte, NC. Armed with a fashion illustration degree from the Art Institute of Fort Lauderdale, Gregory flourished as the head of design at Creatrix for eight years. Her achievements include the QC Family Tree - Culture Bearers Residency (2022), being named one of Charlotte is Creative's "2022 Creatives to Watch," and receiving the Charlotte is Creative HUG Grant in 2021. Bunny's artistic journey transcends borders, with a prestigious Artist in Residency in Berlin, Germany, and current representation as a Pallet Table Artist with 9189 Studio Gallery at VAPA. Passionate about providing spaces for black artists, she opened the iconic UNDERGROUND venue in 2014, earning the title "Queen Mother of Charlotte's Underground Hip Hop" in 2017. Currently, her UNDERGROUND Mobile Art Studio and Gallery foster creativity among underserved youth. Gregory’s mixed-media studio work, heavily influenced by Afrocentric culture, tackles racial and economic disparity, engaging audiences with its compelling narrative. Co-founder of Mural Ninjas, her captivating public art commissions add vibrancy to Charlotte's landscape.

Find inspiration in her artistry on Instagram @ug_battleofhearts.