To art lovers, Spring in Downtown Greenville means one thing…ARTISPHERE! Each May, our lovely city plays host to one of the South’s premier art festivals. But art lovers shouldn’t limit themselves to this one event only, DTGVL has plenty of opportunities for novices and connoisseurs alike to experience Greenville’s rich art culture.
We should begin our artistic journey with some insider info on one of DTGVL’s favorite events, Artisphere. Held in the heart of our fair city, this outdoor festival showcases some of the best artists this region has to offer. Beginning with a fancy Opening Gala at Courtyard by Marriott and Nantucket Grill on Thursday, Artisphere launches into full swing on Friday, May 11th. Featuring not only exhibits from local and regional artisans, this arts extravaganza also spotlights performances from local musicians, theatre groups, dance troupes and other performing artists. Saturday and Sunday’s festivities also include Wine Tasting, Artists’ Demonstrations and Classes, as well as fun events for the kids at Kidsphere. And, as always, restaurant vendors will be on hand to offer a variety of choices in food, beverage, beer and wine. Hours for this festival are 4 -8PM on Friday, 10AM – 8PM on Saturday, and 11AM – 6PM on Sunday. There is no admission to this event held on Main Street and Broad near Falls Park. For more information, visit http://www.Artisphere.us.
Local visual artists will showcase their talents at the “Artists of the Upstate” exhibit. Work from more than 40 artists who hail from the Upstate will be featured at Centre Stage, located on River Street. The exhibit is open to the public from 2PM to 6PM on Tuesdays through Fridays, and all during Artisphere. The works, including “Best in Show” winner, “My Friend Vanetta” by artist Judy Verhoeven, will be on display until June 19th. Call 864-233-6733 for more information.
The Greenville County Museum of Art has proudly been the home of the Andrew Wyeth: Greenville Collection for some time. Recently expanded to thirty-five paintings with the gift of the 1946 watercolor “Four Poster”, it now includes an example from every major period of Wyeth’s career. Victoria Wyeth, grand-daughter of the celebrated painter, will be on hand May 8th through 10th to lead guided tours and discussions of her grandfather’s legacy. These free tours will take place at 11:30AM and 1:30PM each day, but space is limited and reservations are required. For more information, visit www.greenvillemuseum.org or call 864–271-7570, ext. 44.
While you are strolling down Main Street, take time to notice the many sculptures that are part of the city’s “Art in Public Places”. From the cute little Mice on Main that peek out from underneath shrubbery and depictions of famous Greenville citizens to sculptures that embrace the artists’ imagination and flights of fancy, these works range from the profound to the whimsical. For more information on this project and maps to the various works, visit (www.greenvillesc,gov/Culture/ArtinPublicPlaces.
Downtown Greenville is also home to a diversity of art galleries and studios. From the showcasing of local talent at the Artists Guild Gallery of Greenville (on Main Street) and the Matthew Campbell Gallery (on E. North), to little unexpected galleries like the ones located at Coffee Underground (on Coffee Street)and Art Bar on Main (also on Main Street), DTGVL’s art community offers a little something for all tastes. To see the artists’ creativity in action, visit the galleries and studios located at Art Crossing at RiverPlace. Occupied by artists selected by the Metropolitan Arts Council, these creative souls often engage onlookers in their creative process.
If your idea of art is little more “BoHo”, then venture down to Pendleton Street and the Far West End (formerly known as the Pendleton Arts District). This funky little neighborhood, in the heart of the historic Village of West Greenville, is home to an eclectic assortment of more than 30 artists’ studios and galleries. Plan to visit the first Friday of each month to take part in the aptly named “First Fridays” art event and gallery crawl. For more information, visit http://thefarwestend.com.
Well, there you have it – from Artisphere to art galleries and more, Downtown offers several opportunities to view some amazing artwork that will hopefully leave you feeling a little more inspired and creative yourself! You might even feel the urge to grab a sketchbook or canvas and paints to capture the beauty of Greenville in your own work of art. Whatever you decide, you are encouraged to put your heart in the arts this weekend and beyond!
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