How to Celebrate American Artist Appreciation Month in Charleston

August is American Artist Appreciation Month and there’s plenty to celebrate here in the Holy City!

Charleston is consistently named one of the most beautiful cities in the world and has been Travel + Leisure’s #1 best city in the United States for ten years running. Part of what makes Charleston so special is its vibrant arts scene. Our charming city, with its storied history and breathtaking landscape, tends to inspire both local artists and those visiting from away.

This August we encourage you to explore arts in the Lowcountry in honor of American Artist Appreciation Month. Here are some ideas to get you started:

Outings & Events

• First Friday Artwalk

There’s no better way to kick off this celebration than by attending a First Friday Artwalk on August 5th from 5:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. This free monthly event is sponsored by the Charleston Gallery Association, a group of 30 fine art galleries that feature the works of local, regional, national, and international artists. According to its website, CGA’s goal is “to connect art lovers and collectors with our wonderful art community that is a magical part of the beautiful city of Charleston.”

First Friday Artwalks are held on the peninsula year-round (except in January and July, due to the holidays). Over 40 galleries participate by opening their doors and sharing their works with art connoisseurs and newbies alike. Some galleries offer drinks and light appetizers for guests to enjoy while exploring the art. This event is classy, lively, and best shared with others — so round up your girlfriends or partners and treat yourselves to an early Friday night out on the town! Click here for a map of participating galleries.

• Beyond Van Gogh: The Immersive Experience

Although Van Gogh was a European artist, you can honor him by attending an American showing of his immersive experience. That counts for this month, right?!

Beyond Van Gogh uses projection and music to feature 300 pieces of art over 30,000 square feet of space at the Charleston Area Convention Center. This technology allows viewers to feel like they are a part of Vincent’s paintings. Haven’t you always wanted to stare up at his Starry Night or walk through his beautiful aqua Almond Blossoms?

This show is running through September 4, 2022. Click here for more information and to purchase tickets.

• Local Museums & Galleries

The Gibbes Museum of Art

135 Meeting Street, Charleston
This downtown museum, opened in 1905, houses over 10,000 pieces of fine art, most created by American artists and most depicting Charleston or the southeastern United States. The first floor is free to visit; tickets can be purchased to view collections on the second and third floors. The museum introduces six to eight new exhibitions every year. Click here for more information.

City Gallery at Waterfront Park

34 Prioleau Street, Charleston
This free-of-charge museum is located across from Waterfront Park’s Pineapple Fountain. It is owned by the City of Charleston and features contemporary fine art by local, national, and international artists. The current show is South Arts’ 2021 Southern Prize and State Fellows Exhibition, and features prize-winning works by artists from Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, Louisiana, Mississippi, North Carolina, South Carolina, and Tennessee. Click here for additional information.

Halsey Institute of Contemporary Art

161 Calhoun Street, Charleston
The Halsey Institute is located on the College of Charleston campus within the School of the Arts and is free to visit. It features five to seven exhibitions each year as well as many lectures, discussions, panels, and other interactive events. Click here for additional information.

• DIY Art

Feeling creative? Celebrate American Artist Appreciation Month by crafting your own masterpiece!

Craft & Canvas: 1702 Olde Towne Road, West Ashley

For the Love of Art: Paint & Sip classes at various locations around Charleston, North Charleston, and Mount Pleasant

The Art Place Studio: 1317 Long Grove Drive, Mount Pleasant

Wine & Design: Virtual Parties

Blair Center for the Arts: Art classes for kids, teens, and adults; Mount Pleasant and West Ashley locations

Let’s Make Art: Online community with easy-to-understand watercolor and acrylic video tutorials

We hope your August is filled with creativity, culture, and some exploration of the artists of Charleston and beyond!