Charlotte, NC, December 26, 2025
In Charlotte, artist Makayla Binter’s recent art initiative reimagines Queen Charlotte as an anti-ICE activist. This project aims to channel public sentiment about immigration policies through visual narrative while supporting fundraising efforts for anti-ICE initiatives. Drawing inspiration from Charlotte’s historical identity, the artwork creates a contemporary dialogue about civic engagement and immigration rights, reflecting the city’s historical spirit of resistance.
Charlotte, North Carolina
A recent art initiative in Charlotte has captured local attention, with artist Makayla Binter reimagining the city’s namesake, Queen Charlotte, as an anti-Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) activist. This creative endeavor aims to channel public sentiment regarding immigration policies into a visual narrative and is currently a focal point for fundraising efforts. The artwork draws inspiration from Charlotte’s historical identity, particularly its long-standing association with a “hornet’s nest” of resistance, a moniker dating back to the American Revolution.
Art as a Catalyst for Discussion
The reimagined portrayal of Queen Charlotte presents a modern interpretation of historical figures engaging with contemporary social and political issues. Binter’s work provides a new lens through which to view the city’s past while addressing present-day concerns surrounding immigration and enforcement policies. The artist has publicly shared that her motivation for the piece stemmed from a desire to transform her personal feelings about ICE into a tangible form of artistic expression.
This initiative leverages the symbolic power of Queen Charlotte, a figure deeply embedded in the city’s identity, to spark conversations and galvanize community engagement. The artwork serves not only as an aesthetic contribution but also as a vehicle for advocacy, reflecting a local response to broader national discussions on immigration.
Historical Context and Modern Interpretation
Charlotte’s nickname, the “hornet’s nest,” originated during the American Revolution when British General Lord Cornwallis described the city as a “hornet’s nest of rebellion” due to the strong resistance encountered from local patriots. This historical reference has long symbolized the city’s spirit of defiance and its capacity for organized opposition against perceived injustices. Makayla Binter’s art piece consciously evokes this historical spirit, reframing it within a contemporary context to address current sociopolitical challenges.
By connecting the historical symbolism of resistance with modern activism, the artwork creates a bridge between different eras of Charlotte’s history. It suggests a continuity of civic engagement and a willingness within the community to confront issues that resonate deeply with its residents. The project highlights how art can be a powerful tool for civic expression, allowing historical narratives to inform and inspire current advocacy efforts.
Community Engagement and Fundraising
The art piece is integral to a fundraising campaign designed to support anti-ICE initiatives. This financial aspect underscores the artist’s commitment to tangible action beyond artistic expression alone. The funds raised are intended to aid efforts aligned with the artwork’s core message, demonstrating a direct link between the creative work and its intended impact on the community. The community’s response to the fundraising indicates a shared interest in supporting causes related to immigration rights and reform.
Public reception of the artwork has generated dialogue across various community platforms, contributing to increased awareness of both the historical significance of Queen Charlotte and the contemporary debates surrounding immigration enforcement. The project exemplifies how local artists can play a crucial role in shaping public discourse and mobilizing support for social causes within their communities.
The ongoing efforts surrounding this art piece continue to draw attention to the intersection of art, history, and activism in Charlotte. It reinforces the idea that cultural contributions can serve as significant catalysts for social change, encouraging residents to reflect on their city’s heritage and its relevance to current societal challenges.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: Who is the artist behind the reimagined Queen Charlotte artwork?
A1: The artist behind the reimagined Queen Charlotte artwork is Makayla Binter.
Q2: What is the central theme of Makayla Binter’s new art piece?
A2: The central theme of Makayla Binter’s new art piece is reimagining Queen Charlotte as an anti-Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) activist.
Q3: What historical concept inspired the artist’s work?
A3: The artist’s work was inspired by Charlotte’s historical identity, particularly its long-standing association with a “hornet’s nest” of resistance, a moniker dating back to the American Revolution.
Q4: What is the purpose of the art initiative?
A4: The art initiative aims to channel public sentiment regarding immigration policies into a visual narrative and is currently a focal point for fundraising efforts to support anti-ICE initiatives.
Q5: How does the artwork connect with present-day concerns?
A5: The artwork connects with present-day concerns by providing a new lens through which to view the city’s past while addressing present-day issues surrounding immigration and enforcement policies, reflecting a local response to broader national discussions on immigration.
Key Features of the Art Initiative
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Artist | Makayla Binter |
| Subject | Queen Charlotte reimagined as an anti-ICE activist |
| Inspiration | Charlotte’s historical “hornet’s nest of resistance” |
| Primary Goal | Raise funds for anti-ICE initiatives and spark conversation |
| Scope | Local (Charlotte, NC) with relevance to national immigration discussions |
| Medium | Art as a form of social commentary and advocacy |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Investigation Launched Following Juvenile’s Death in Charlotte
Charlotte’s Christmas Day Celebrations Highlight Community Spirit
Traffic Stop Reveals Major Crack Cocaine Bust in Plattsburgh
Appeal Filed in Bessemer City Restaurant Tragedy
Valuable Statue Stolen from Uptown Jazz Club in Charlotte
Tragic I-81 Accident Claims Three Lives in Roanoke
Unseasonably Warm Weather and Stabbing Investigation in Charlotte
Charlotte Man Faces Charges for Allegedly Shooting at Vehicle with Child Inside
Local Sports Star Sets New NBA Record as Veteran Broadcaster Retires
Affordable Housing Initiative and Holiday Updates in Charlotte
Author: HERE Charlotte
The CHARLOTTE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERECharlotte.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Charlotte, Mecklenburg County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Lovin' Life Music Festival, Charlotte Pride festival, and major sporting tournaments at Bank of America Stadium. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Charlotte Regional Business Alliance and Foundation for the Carolinas, plus leading businesses in finance and entertainment that power the local economy such as Bank of America and NASCAR. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAsheville.com, HEREGreensboro.com, HERERaleigh.com, and HEREOBX.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into North Carolina's dynamic landscape.
