The Arts & Science Council (ASC) is Charlotte-Mecklenburg’s Local Arts Agency and the cultural catalyst, driving economic growth and community retention through the arts, sciences, and culture. ASC leads as the voice of culture in Charlotte-Mecklenburg, fueling community retention and upward mobility for all our residents. 

ASC Culture Blocks is a vital piece of ASC’s mission to actively remove barriers to access and connect communities across Mecklenburg County with free arts, science, and history experiences. Culture Blocks is funded by Mecklenburg County and administered by the Arts & Science Council in partnership with Charlotte-Mecklenburg Libraries and Mecklenburg County Parks and Recreation.  

The program organizes funds and supports cultural experiences shaped by residents, close to where they live, and delivered through our partnership with public libraries, recreation centers, parks, and other community spaces. These programs are focused within historically underserved neighborhoods, with minimal opportunities or access to arts, science, and history experiences. 

Culture Blocks offers a wide range of programs, including though not limited to workshops and experiences in visual arts, dance, theater, writing, photography, culinary arts, music classes, film screenings, concerts, festivals, and multicultural events. These programs serve neighborhoods in Charlotte and the towns of Cornelius, Huntersville, Davidson, Matthews, Mint Hill, and Pineville.