Busy arts season takes center stage in Beaufort, Bluffton, Hilton Head
BY NANCY K. WELLARD
Special to THE ISLAND PACKET & THE BEAUFORT GAZETTE
Four Corners Gallery
The biggest news on the south side of the Broad River is that Charlene Gardner is about to open her all-new, expanded Four Corners Fine Art & Framing gallery in the heart of Bluffton.
She has expanded next door into the space formerly occupied by Stock Farm Antiques at 1263-B May River Road.
The public is invited to her “soft opening” from 4 to 7 p.m. on Friday, Nov. 15.
Visitors will see the expanded gallery, and meet the six artists and enjoy a close-up look at the work of “The Ladies of Palmetto Bluff” in this exhibit’s opening reception.
Look forward to the oil paintings of Clare Ellis, who commented that she seeks to transform the essence of her experiences into a reality on canvas.
Sally Hickman continues her quest of painting each sky abstract better than the last. Her layering and moodiness is delicately placed on her canvas board.
Nancy Dwight explained that after decades in communications and professional politics she delights in painting Lowcountry landscapes with marshes, streams and the people here.
Potter Nancy Waterhouse likes to experiment with various clay bodies and techniques, primarily pinching, hand-building and wheel-throwing.
Karen Dale is a potter, too. She has been throwing larger and experimenting with surface design.
Marge Agin, a photographer, said she has a new look in many of her images. Pointing out that she is using negative space surrounding the subjects of her work. She adds that she continues to capture the Lowcountry through the lens of the camera as well as through the artistry of digital opportunities.
The gallery’s transformation is the fruit of much labor.
“What a challenge,” said Gardner. “ I had no idea at the time what an undertaking this might be … but I must say thank heavens for the McCrackens, Emmett and Teddy (of Stock Farm Antiques), who encouraged me through the process, and Brynne Bowler, who inspired me, contributed to the process, completely spurred me on and and said often ‘you can do this!’ ”
The official opening of the new Four Corners gallery will be held on Dec. 8, and everyone is invited to put that date on their calendars and drop in for the festive opening and view the work of the celebrated Four Corners gallery artists.