Some people grow gardens. Matt Alvis grows artists.

And on Friday, Nov. 7, he's going to tell us how he does it.

Daybreak Legends, our November theme is GROWTH — and we couldn't have found a better embodiment of it than Matt Alvis (aka @stencilspray).

Matt is a painter, curator, mentor, and one of those rare humans who believes that when artists thrive, entire communities flourish. His intricate multi-layer stencil work is stunning, for sure. But what really sets Matt apart? He spends much of his career creating the conditions for other artists to grow.

Whether it’s Activation Studios, the TAC Gallery, Art Cart NoDa or the Charlotte SHOUT! Lounge – Matt doesn't just make art. He makes room for art to happen.

GRAB YOUR FREE TICKET NOW
When: Friday, November 7, 8–10 AM
Where: Mint Museum Randolph
Cost: FREE (but you gotta register!)

Here's what's growing at this event:

🎨 Free parking at the Mint Museum Randolph
☕ Hot java from Enderly Coffee
🥐 Breakfast bites from Community Culinary School of Charlotte
🥂 Morning mocktails from Swizzled
🎸 Live music from Falllift
⚡ 49-Second Pitches, a Bolt of Inspiration & connections galore
💚 Your creative network (because growth happens in community)

And while you're with us on 11/7 -- Check out 2 exhibitions perfect for the theme of "Growth."
The Mint is currently showing "Future Now: Virtual Sneakers to Cutting-Edge Kicks" and "Central Impact: Skateboarding's Art and Influence" — both celebrating DIY culture, grassroots creativity, and art that builds community. Just like Matt's work. Central Impact especially honors Charlotte's skate scene and the builders who create spaces from scratch. Sound familiar? Stick around after our event to explore them.

The bottom line:
Growth doesn't happen in isolation. It happens when someone believes in you, opens a door, makes space, and says "yes, you belong here, too." Matt Alvis has been that person for hundreds of Charlotte artists.

Let's spend a morning learning how he does it — and how we can do it, too. GRAB YOUR FREE TICKET NOW!