nature-metal-owlsThe Coastal Discovery Museum is pleased to announce its upcoming temporary exhibition, “Where Nature Meets Art,” March 1 through April 30.  Offered by the Artists of Spring Island, this exhibition will provide a glimpse into the beauty of that special place. Spring Island’s focus upon preservation and environmental conservation are complementary to the Coastal Discovery Museum’s recently adopted mission to “inspire people to care for the Lowcountry.” Visit the museum to see the works from some Spring Island artists who have gained an appreciation for our area’s unique culture, heritage, and environment.

Spring Island is celebrating its 27th year, and so is its Arts Program. At its inception in 1990, nature-mike-reedthe developers of Spring Island wanted to ensure the preservation of the cultural history of the Island and the preservation of its stunning environmental beauty. Both are woven into the fabric that is Spring Island.

The Spring Island Arts Program’s mission is to honor and expand the Island’s impact on the culture and artistic legacy of the Lowcountry. This mission is also foundational to the community. The Founders wanted to invite artists to visit the Island, experience its beauty, find rejuvenation, and gain inspiration for their art. The artists in turn leave an original piece of art, created on the Island, to add to Spring Island’s Collection (now totaling nearly 200 works) that may be enjoyed by its Members in perpetuity. 

nature-steve-smithThe members of the Artists of Spring Island have varied backgrounds. Some of them are relatively new to creating art, gaining instruction and inspiration from their surroundings and their participation in the program’s workshops and classes. Other artists were more firmly established in the artistic community, either having participated in an art-related career or having received formal training before moving to Spring Island. Regardless of the experience level of the artists, all the Members benefit from the Visiting Artists’ knowledge and craft by participating in workshops and classes The growth of the Arts Program has brought about specific member driven focus groups in Ceramics, Metalworking, Painting, Photography and our newest group Potpourri; which includes fiber, paper, wood and sculptural arts enthusiasts.  

Please check the Coastal Discovery Museum’s website at www.coastaldiscovery.org for images of some of the work in the exhibit and a schedule of artist demonstrations or gallery walks. More information about the Spring Island community may be found at www.springisland.com.