Spoleto Festival USA is South Carolina's best-known cultural festival. Held annually in Charleston, Spoleto's visual component is diverse and accessible to all who appreciate art. For the 2010 festival, Spoleto sponsored two major art exhibits: Artist Nick Cave displayed fabric creations called "soundsuits," while photographer JoAnn Verburg shared a collection of photos from Spoleto, Italy, the festival's namesake. Art galleries in Charleston are numerous, and they often open new exhibits to coincide with Spoleto.
Spoleto Festival USA
14 George St.
Charleston, SC 29401
843-579-3100
spoletousa.org
Charleston is also home to the Southeastern Wildlife Exposition. Since its inception in 1982, this festival has grown to become the largest gathering of wildlife artists in the United States. The Southeastern Wildlife Exposition is a three-day event that draws over 40,000 attendees. Artists of national renown display their paintings, sculpture and carvings. There are also exhibits from wildlife and conservation organizations, as well as special events like the Preview Gala and Soiree.
Southeastern Wildlife Exposition
P.O. Box 20635
Charleston, SC 29413
843-723-1748
sewe.com
Artisphere is a weekend celebration of the arts in Greenville, South Carolina. Many disciplines of the visual arts, including printmaking, metalwork and glasswork, are represented at Artist Row. Participants are selected by a panel of judges, then display their creations outdoors in downtown Greenville. In addition to Artist Row, there's a juried exhibition. Visitors can also take in the collections at Greenville's two art museums.
Artisphere
16 Augusta St.
Greenville, SC 29601
864-271-9398
artisphere.us
The Congaree Art Festival is presented by the South Carolina State Museum. Held on the museum's campus in Columbia, this festival features work by South Carolina artists. Art is available for purchase, and attendees are encouraged to talk with the artists about their work and inspiration. In 2010, the Congaree Art Festival coincided with Artista Vista, a gallery crawl around downtown Columbia.
Congaree Art Festival
SC State Museum
301 Gervais St.
Columbia, SC 29201
803-898-4921
www.museum.state.sc.us
The Atalaya Arts & Crafts Festival is held each year at Huntington Beach State Park in Murrells Inlet. Over 100 artists participate, displaying glass sculptures, baskets and various styles of painting. Craft items are also exhibited. Tickets to the festival include admission to the park. Authentic low-country food is available, and entertainment is provided by local musicians.
Atalaya Arts & Crafts Festival
South Carolina Department of Parks, Recreation & Tourism
1205 Pendleton St.
Columbia, SC 29201
803-734-0450
scprt.com