Creative Generation In: Greensboro, North Carolina

By Destiny King


The Collective that makes up Creative Generation consists of artists, educators, makers, and thinkers from around the world. In this series, we’ve decided to highlight inspiring work that’s happening in the cities in which our collective members live. In this blog, Summer Resident Destiny King writes about the Free Little Art Gallery in Greensboro, North Carolina that challenges the financial and intellectual accessibility, elitism, and lack of representation of art galleries. 

Dunleath is an infamous neighborhood in Greensboro, North Carolina that is known for its thriving social scene, sustainable practices, and quirky humble abodes. In the spring and summer, my partner and I frequent their large community garden and events. It’s weird to say you feel safe and accepted in a neighborhood you don’t live in, but that’s exactly what Dunleath is for many Greensboro residents. 

During my partner and I’s many after work drives, we go through Dunleath and see a new addition to one of the cool and hip houses in the neighborhood. I remember asking my partner to “Stop! I see something cool & new here,” and as we leave our car to see this mini house of sorts, we learn of the “Free Little Art Gallery” and all of the art pieces inside. 

On the side of the art gallery is a small sign that includes a bold statement, “Art is for everybody.” On the small poster were “rules” about the gallery which immediately brought a feeling of surprise, amazement, and inspiration. I couldn’t believe there was an art gallery that  didn’t make me feel judged at the length of time I spent admiring the art, and that I, a “hobbyist” at most in visual art, could ultimately feel a sense of belonging in contributing to the gallery. 

Better known as the Percy Street F.L.A.G. (Free Little Art Gallery), this art gallery has been updated with artwork from artists all the way from Maryland to local artists in Greensboro. The notions of “professional” and “hobbyist” are no longer in the FLAG community. The intimate setting encourages handmade bracelets, pot holders, mini paintings, miniature spectators, and so much more. The idea of the art galleries is to “take what you can and give what you can,” similar to Free Little Libraries. 

Art and wealth have existed together since antiquity. The inability to not only access art, but to curate art in a space that is safe and welcoming to who you present fully is not an option in today’s society. F.L.A.G. has created an inclusive art practice at the local level that does not question the intellect of understanding one’s art and the art lovers who want to enjoy art. Unlike formal art galleries, power dynamics are not at play in condemning what is high-value art. 

There are many obstacles in accessibility such as stimulating other senses like touch and hearing, general physical accessibility, or “salon style” curations. Although, FLAG doesn’t address all of the needs of accessibility, it does give freedom of touch and rethinking how we can be more inclusive at the local level. Since its conception in Washington, D.C., FLAGs have begun to pop up in many cities and neighborhoods including Atlanta, Oakland, California, Phoenix, and many more. To find a Free Little Art Gallery near you, check out https://findafreelittleartgallery.com/. 

The Dunleath community in Greensboro, North Carolina, creates transformative and empowering spaces. This neighborhood, and the Greater Greensboro community, represents and mirrors our own interests and needs. Dunleath, and the Free Little Art Gallery is no different. When you find yourself in Greensboro come visit Percy Street and know you are welcome as art is for everybody, and that means you.