By Betty Cothran
Special to The Island News
Beaufort Art Association celebrates the holiday season this year beginning with “The Best of Beaufort Art,” our annual All Member Show. Join us on First Friday, Nov. 7, for an open house reception highlighting art from our general members, many of whom are professional artists who support BAA but are not regular exhibiting artists in the Gallery.
Participating artists include John Hume, Audrey Montgomery, Mary Segars, Linda Tully, Jennifer Wharton, and Beth Williams.
There will also be new art from 70 of our local exhibiting artists including 2-D paintings and 3-D works of pottery, metal, and wood. The Gallery will also showcase signature pieces from our seven custom jewelers: Helena Appleton, Cheryl Arnold, Carolina Alderman, Lisa Biesterfeld, Linda Dixon, Jan Glover, and Molly Rohrer.
In addition, the reception will celebrate the 10th anniversary of the Brick Wall Gallery, a special area created for members who want to rent a larger or more defined space within the Gallery to exhibit their work. Currently there are 11 exhibiting members: woodturner Frank Anson; fine art photographers Sandy Dimke, Eric Horan, and Karen M. Peluso; basketry artist Karen McCarthy; encaustic artist Anne Kennedy; and fine art painters, Donna Cole, Wyn Foland, Susan McCarthy, Marian Sanders, and Tommie Toner.
Brick Wall artists will be on hand at the anniversary reception to discuss their work and originals, as well as prints and notecards, will be available.
More than 20 years ago, BAA opened its first gallery on Port Republic Street, moving a few years later to the Elliott House on Bay Street. Today, BAA’s home is at 913 Bay Street in an expansive space that showcases some of the best art in the Lowcountry, with many types of art and artists represented and exhibits changing every two months.
The nonprofit organization strives to encourage, support, and provide opportunities for the artistic growth of its members. BAA welcomes both established and emerging artists in a variety of mediums and styles.
Looking ahead, BAA will also host a Holiday Show featuring original small art including holiday themed works perfect for gift giving and decorating. The festive Preview Party will be held Thursday, Nov. 13 from 2 to 5 p.m. Bring a friend and come start your holiday shopping.
Don’t forget to mark your calendar for the upcoming open house and reception on First Friday, Nov. 7 from 5 to 7:30 pm. Refreshments will be served and the community is invited. The exhibit begins on Nov. 4 and runs through Dec. 27.
