God City is a young artists’ co-op founded in 2005 with a simple, one-line manifesto—to educate, enlighten, assist, and entertain people through artistic expression. The group is comprised of 8 members working in a variety of media and approaches, and describes itself by saying:
“God City was never something that was planned. It just kind of came together. The right people meeting at the right time. All like something out of a movie. Four like-minded guys who wanted to see more of the thing they liked in their city of Charlotte. They came together with similar interest in art, comics, music, culture, and most importantly an undying want to make a change. Since its humble beginning in 2005, the members of God City have realized through hip hop culture that unity, self-sufficiency, and creativity they can achieve their artistic dreams and give back to those who came before them and who are soon to follow. Heavily influenced by hip hop culture, comics, and history the members of this group set out to make original, engaging artwork that challenges the viewer. Currently, all members of God City are practicing and/or teaching artists who reside in Charlotte, NC.”
Members of the group include: de’Angelo Dia-Bethune, Meika Fields, John Hairston, Marcus Kiser, Donavan Lyons, Wolly Vinyl, Antoine William, and Jen Woods. One member of the group, Dia-Bethune, is an alumnus of Appalachian.
Marcus Kiser, Crew With No Fear, 2008. Digital media. Image courtesy of the artist.
