Wendy Hickey shared their story and experiences with us recently and you can find our conversation below.
Wendy, we’re thrilled to have you with us today. Before we jump into your intro and the heart of the interview, let’s start with a bit of an ice breaker: What is something outside of work that is bringing you joy lately?
Mountain biking!
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
• I’m Wendy Hickey, founder of ArtPop Street Gallery and a joyful amplifier of the Charlotte NC/SC region’s creative spirit.
I believe in bold color on blank walls, local artists on big stages, and everyday spaces that stop you in your tracks. I believe art should be for everyone, not just tucked inside galleries with velvet ropes and dress codes.
ArtPop started with one idea. What if the same billboards used for advertising could showcase something far more powerful. The creativity of local artists. That idea became a 501c3 nonprofit that transforms public space into public joy.
Today, ArtPop fills Charlotte with art that connects people, celebrates talent, and brings creativity into daily life. From murals to fashion shows to student showcases and more, we help people see their city in full color.
My background is in billboard advertising. My passion is building community. For more than a decade, I have brought people together to make big and beautiful things happen. I have led public art projects throughout Charlotte, built lasting partnerships, and helped raise millions in support of artists and the joy they bring to this city.
This work is rooted in love.
Love for Charlotte. Love for creative people. Love for the way art opens hearts and brings people closer together.
Art should be easy to access. Community should feel welcoming. Joy should be everywhere.
Great, so let’s dive into your journey a bit more. What was your earliest memory of feeling powerful?
I realized at an early age that I was an empath and from that I feel deeply connected to people.
That is power, power to inspire, make others feel seen and heard. It probably just started with a simple smile to a stranger.
What did suffering teach you that success never could?
That earning the right to something, working hard for it, you always appreciate that more.
Alright, so if you are open to it, let’s explore some philosophical questions that touch on your values and worldview. What would your closest friends say really matters to you?
Kindness
Okay, we’ve made it essentially to the end. One last question before you go. What is the story you hope people tell about you when you’re gone?
That I cared deeply for others, tried to always have a smile and share joy and cheer!
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.artpopstreetgallery.com/
- Instagram: @ArtPopStreetGallery
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/artpopstreetgallery/
- Twitter: @ArtPopStGallery
- Facebook: @ArtPopStreetGallery
- Youtube: @ArtPopStreetGallery
Image Credits
Rico Marcelo, Lori Schember, John D. Simmons
