The Chatham Arts Council is investing in artists through our Meet This Artist (MTA) series, introducing you to 12 Chatham County artists each year in a big way. The fine folks at Hobbs Architects in downtown Pittsboro are powering our Meet This Artist series this year. Architecture is art, and the Hobbs crew values art in our community. So, take a look. Meet your very inspiring neighbors.
From a young age, Carlie Wiggins recognized her passion for art and embraced it wholeheartedly. Now an eighth grader at Chatham Middle School, she approaches creativity with both curiosity and determination, always eager to refine her skills and explore new artistic challenges. Precocious and driven, Carlie thrives in an environment that pushes her to grow, often seeking opportunities to showcase her work beyond the classroom. With a youthful competitive edge and a love for creative expression, she looks ahead to high school ready to embrace new experiences while keeping art an important part of her journey.
At what point do you remember thinking, “Hey, I’m an artist!”? Do you remember what age you were?
Yes! I was around eight years old when I first had that thought. I was already taking the art classes provided at my elementary school, but I remember feeling like there just weren’t enough opportunities for all the students. When I got to middle school and met my art teacher, Ms. Pinto, I knew immediately things would be different. She has really helped me grow, to put more into what I create, to get into competitions and show my artwork out in the world. It was fun to see my art be recognized and awarded. Honestly, that helped me realize how much I love making art and being a creative person.
With moving into a larger school with more resources, were you able to try out new mediums?
There is a huge difference. I had many expectations of middle school and–I don’t know why–but I just expected fewer resources and supplies. Now that I’m here, I can’t imagine taking a different type of class. All I think about is getting to art class and getting down to work there. There are definitely a lot more mediums that I get to work with, instead of just working with markers and Elmer’s glue. Like, I am doing photography, which is something I’ve never done. I’m even learning matting and framing!
Tell me a bit more about that.
I started learning photography in sixth grade with Ms. Pinto. We made little statues out of rocks. First, we picked out our rocks and then built them up like a little tower. Once everyone finished their structure, we went out to the pond near our school to take pictures. Everyone’s pictures turned out well and I felt mine were really great. The project felt so calming to me. It was just me and the camera and no one around to judge me.
So now, I’m always up for doing photography, any activity involving photography. Recently, we [Chatham MS] were finalists in the NC Scholastic Art Showcase. We had to create a work inspired by the song “The Sound of Silence.” That experience was so different from the photography I’m used to. We adjusted the camera shutter and then we took a flashlight to write or draw out shapes with light. It was so fun!
Which project has been your favorite, so far?
This year, my favorite project has definitely been the Triangle Youth Music art contest that I ended up winning. It was an optional competition outside of the school. Like, our teacher presented it to us, but it was not something everyone participated in. I think I was the only one in my class to do it. And it felt so good to win that!
Were you free to create whatever you wanted or did you have to create around a specific theme?
We were free to create whatever we wanted as long as it centered around music. They are an orchestra, so we just had to include music or instruments in the artwork.
Another one of my favorites is a Whitney Houston inspired artwork that I made for Black History Month. I created her silhouette in blues and purples, with black in the background and little cutouts of the words from lyrics in her songs. Overall, it was a really fun experience.
Where are you going to attend high school?
I am doing the Chatham Early College with Central Carolina Community College. I was recently accepted there and as soon as I saw the email, I felt so excited and ready. I did not hesitate! I told my mom, “Make sure you say YES! Make sure you tell that lady that I said YES!”
Tell me a bit more about that.
Well, for the first two years, freshman and sophomore year, I will go to Chatham Center for Innovation in Siler City, then spend my junior and senior year at the Chatham Main Campus in Pittsboro. I’ll have to figure out getting a ride there, but other than that, I feel like it’s something that I’m prepared for.
I’ve heard they offer a lot of the ‘high school’ things, like prom, dances, and activity clubs. So, that’s one of the things I’m excited about. I will for sure be joining the art club.
What are you most looking forward to about the high school experience?
Well, I’m excited about making new friends, and being in a smaller class with others who are there to learn. It will be easier to not talk too much or get distracted, like the classes I have now. I hope I will just be able to enjoy the learning and not be afraid to speak my mind and ask questions about what I need to understand.
I’m excited for you! Okay, so, I have a BIG question for you, and it’s totally okay to have no answer at all for it yet. What do you want to be when you grow up?
Something in the medical field. I want to study cardiology, anesthesiology, or gynecology. There are so many schools I would love to attend, but I definitely want to stay in-state to be close to family. UNC Chapel Hill School of Medicine would be amazing!
I agree. We are very lucky to have so many amazing universities here in North Carolina. I wish you a bright and happy future and I hope you keep art in your life, no matter where the road leads you.
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