Welcome to Slow Dance Art, a studio collective founded by two passionate artists in Charlotte, North Carolina. Through diverse works spanning different media, we explore the seamless fusion of methodical technique and spontaneous inspiration. At the heart of our creative vision lies the belief that art gives life a unique and meaningful essence.

Dee Blackburn

Dee Blackburn, a film and television designer based in Charlotte, NC, is a true embodiment of artistic versatility and passion. With a Master of Scene Design from the North Carolina School of the Arts and over twenty-five years of experience as a registered architect, Dee seamlessly blends her expertise in architecture and scene design, resulting in captivating and unique creations.

Dee's artistic journey was nurtured by her Great Aunt, who provided her with painting lessons at the age of eleven. This early exposure sparked Dee's innate talent and drawing ability, propelling her towards exploring various forms of art. From painting to pencil sketching and printmaking, Dee dabbled in different mediums. However, it was her unwavering passion for building and painting that truly resonated with her artistic spirit.

Following the completion of her master's degree, Dee began producing pieces that were heavily influenced by her painting classes. As an architect by profession, she found herself drawn to the world of sculpture, particularly using reclaimed materials. Barn wood, rusted metal, and antique parts spoke to her creative sensibilities and she began creating small wood treehouses that embrace imperfections. Each element tells a story, with a crooked ladder leading to unknown destinations and rusted pieces binding the structure together, alongside a metal roof that could be corrugated metal, wood, or even copper.

Dee's art reflects her vibrant personality, boundless creativity, and passion for transforming ordinary materials into extraordinary pieces. With her diverse skills and spirit, she continues to push the boundaries of artistic expression, capturing the imagination of viewers and leaving a lasting impression.

Lyz Kelk

Lyz Kelk is an award-winning mixed-media artist based in Charlotte, North Carolina, working across photography, assemblage, and other two- and three-dimensional forms. Her work draws on a deep interest in memory, material, and transformation, often incorporating layered surfaces, texture, and found elements to create pieces that feel both intimate and reflective.

After a long career in production and project management, Lyz returned fully to her lifelong passion for art and co-founded SlowDanceArt in 2018. Her practice bridges traditional and contemporary approaches, blending careful construction with intuitive exploration.

Lyz’s work has been exhibited throughout the Southeast and has received multiple honors, including Best in Show (2D/3D) at the 2025 Lazy Daze Arts & Crafts Festival and an Honorable Mention at the 2023 Festival in the Park juried show.