// 5 min Read

Introducing The Arts Initiative at Palmetto Bluff

Written by Palmetto Bluff

Apr 03, 2022

Explore the Artistic Culture of the Lowcountry

Art is the expression of creativity. It is a way of capturing the spirit of a culture, a particular location, or even a feeling. Whether it be through music, painting, or photography, the expression of art can tell a story, illustrate a setting, and bring people together.

At Palmetto Bluff, artistic expression is central to our values. Musicians, painters, crafters, and artisans have enriched our community over the years, and we aim to continue this tradition with the launch of The Arts Initiative.

Continue reading to learn more about The Arts Initiative at Palmetto Bluff.

The Mission of The Arts Initiative

With The Arts Initiative, we strive to inspire and enrich lives through all forms of art. It is our goal to create a dialogue between the arts, the community, and the beauty of the Bluff itself.

The Arts Initiative at Palmetto Bluff is built upon three foundational pillars — inspiration, invitation, and installation. Through these pillars, we hope to introduce our residents to local artists, facilitate community engagement, and build a collection of rotating exhibitions within Palmetto Bluff.

The Artist in Residence Program

Palmetto Bluff’s Artist in Residence program celebrates southern artists while inspiring creativity in our residents and guests. The Bluff will host several notable artists, craftsmen, and creators each year who will provide education and workshops for the community regarding their unique specialty. The Artist in Residence will be hosted at the Artist Loft overlooking the May River, where they can admire the breathtaking scenery and find inspiration in the beauty of nature.

As part of our Artist in Residence program, we have curated the following lineup of inspiring artists to kick off our 2022 season.

April | Shannon Whitworth

Hailing from Brevard, North Carolina, Shannon Whitworth is an accomplished musician and painter. Throughout the early 2000s, Whitworth was a member of the bluegrass band The Biscuit Burners before moving on to a solo career of her own. In addition to music, Whitworth has a passion for visual art. Her paintings showcase abstract landscapes that depict the mountains of North Carolina as well as the Lowcountry of South Carolina. Whitworth’s unique paintings of nature, wildlife, and musicians have been featured in galleries and private collections around the country.

During her time at The Bluff, Whitworth will guide guests through her creative process and introduce them to mixed media drawing and painting. She will also demonstrate how to tell a story using art inspired by Lowcountry landscapes. Guests will have the opportunity to listen to the singer-songwriter’s music and admire a collection of her paintings.

May | Blown Studios

Based in Savannah, Georgia, Blown Studios is a gallery that focuses on artistic, educational, and functional glass blowing. Founded by glass artist Brandon Price, the studio is the Southeast region’s premier source for glass art, demonstrations, and instruction. Price’s work is inspired by traditional Venetian forms with the use of modern color palettes and has been featured at Jacksonville University, the Toledo Museum of Art, and Disney’s Magic Kingdom. Since moving to the Lowcountry, his work has expanded into sculpting sea life inspired by the Atlantic coastal regions.

During his residency, guests can look forward to live demonstrations of the art of glassblowing where Price will create a special installation of art for the community. Price will also be teaching workshops where guests will have the opportunity to melt, sculpt, and form their own one-of-a-kind piece of glass art.

June | J. Stark

A leather goods brand located in downtown Charleston, J. Stark creates timeless, sturdy bags and luggage that will last a lifetime. Founded by Erik and Jess Holmberg, the brand’s designs are timeless and minimalist, and all of its goods are created in their local factory.

While at The Bluff, Jess and Erik Holmberg will host a dip-dyeing leather workshop where attendees will have the opportunity to personalize coasters and key chains by adding designs, colors, or even their initials. The co-owners will also offer a hand-stitched wallet workshop where guests will learn how to stitch their own card wallet and personalize their creation with leather stamps.

FLOW Gallery + Workshop

A physical showcase of our Artist in Residence program, FLOW Gallery + Workshop is a curated collection of local artists presented in a gallery setting in the heart of Wilson Village. Here, residents can admire and participate in a rotating series of exhibitions, workshops, and events featuring established and emerging artisans.

Join Us in Launching The Arts Initiative at FLOW Fest

To kick off the inaugural season of The Arts Initiative at Palmetto Bluff, we invite you and your family to join us on Sunday, May 1st, for a grand celebration on the banks of the May River. During this event, you will be able to immerse yourself in art of all kinds while listening to live music by Natty Grass and Town Mountain. There will also be tasty fare from a variety of local food trucks available for purchase. A percentage of ticket, art, food, and beverage sales will benefit the Society of Bluffton Artists, who will be hosting activities for children on the lawn.

Learn More About Life at The Bluff

Situated in Bluffton, South Carolina, the Palmetto Bluff community is a creative hub of art, natural beauty, and wellness. Here, residents enjoy the finer things in life among picturesque Lowcountry scenery.

If you’re ready to experience all The Bluff has to offer, we invite you to reach out to us by clicking the button below.

Food & Wine / Fall Recipes From Buffalos

Your Pine-ness Cocktail Recipe Before delving into the ingredients and recipe for Buffalos’ delectable Ricotta Meatballs and Sauce, it is imperative that the chef has an excellent cocktail for cooking. Pairing the sweetness of pineapple with the woody flavo...

Sep 2023
palmetto bluff neighborhoods

Real Estate / Waterfront Neighborhoods in Palmetto Bluff

Coastal Palmetto Bluff Neighborhoods Palmetto Bluff, a private community nestled along the South Carolina coastline, presents a harmonious blend of luxurious living, recreational spaces, and a vibrant atmosphere. The meticulously designed Palmetto Bluff neigh...

Sep 2023
wilson landing

Waterways / Behind the Bluff with Marina Captain: Thomas Shanahan

Meet Captain Tom of Palmetto Bluff’s Wilson Landing  In the tranquil embrace of Bluffton's Lowcountry, where rivers wind their way through nature's masterpiece, an extraordinary tale unfolds at Wilson Landing of Palmetto Bluff. The story belongs to Captain Th...

Sep 2023
luxury kitchen design

Architecture & Design / Designing the Southern Kitchen of Your Dreams

Your Guide to a Luxury Kitchen Design The kitchen has long been the heart of the home, where cherished memories are cooked up and shared. When it comes to Lowcountry living, a well-designed kitchen is not just a place to prepare meals but a space that encapsu...

Sep 2023
summer bucket list

Culture / Summer Activities to Check Off Your List Before the Fall

10 Activities You Have to Cross Off Your Summer Bucket List While the days are long and the sun hangs high in the sky, summer offers a golden opportunity to create lasting memories and partake in a variety of thrilling activities. Before the cooler breeze of ...

Sep 2023

Conservation / Water Way

Palmetto Bluff is an ecological wonderland, with its maritime forest and tidal rivers, its salt marsh and abundant wildlife. But perhaps one of the most unique features of this wedge of Lowcountry is the impressive inland waterway that wends through the landsc...

Aug 2023

Artist in Residence / Places Around Palmetto Bluff to Paint Plein Air

Plein Air Painting and Our August Artist in Residence Palmetto Bluff is a paradise for art enthusiasts and nature lovers alike with its breathtaking landscapes, diverse ecosystems, and serene atmosphere. With that being said, the Bluff is the perfect canvas f...

Aug 2023
coastal living

Waterways / Experience Health and Happiness By Living on the Coast

5 Health Benefits of Coastal Living Did you know that life by the coast is not only the most idyllic way to live, but it also improves your health? All in all, coastal living is a rejuvenating experience for the mind, body, and soul. From the cool, salty bree...

Aug 2023
south carolina lowcountry

Culture / 9 Enticing Facts About the Lowcountry

Discover the Charm of the South Carolina Lowcountry Where history and nature intertwine with effortless grace, the South Carolina Lowcountry is a region that allures visitors and residents alike with its timeless beauty, enchanting landscapes, and diverse cul...

Aug 2023

Conservation / Behind the Bluff with Palmetto Bluff Conservancy Educator: Aaron Palmieri

Aaron’s Journey to the Palmetto Bluff Conservancy   In the heart of the Lowcountry, where lush landscapes and diverse ecosystems flourish, lies a hidden gem known as Palmetto Bluff. This breathtaking sanctuary serves as a haven for an array of wildlife, offer...

Aug 2023
LIVE
Community Villages
Experience
Palmetto Bluff Club
On The Water
The Arts Initiative
Events
Conserve
About Us