Experience Savannah’s Spring & Summer Art Scene: Creativity to “Warm” The Soul
By Brittany Howard
The ideal way to welcome in the warmer months in Savannah? With a bit of creative, a-muse-ment. Do you see what we did there?
You don't have to look high and low to spot an exhibit or be a part of an artistic outlet in our city. Nope! These artistic geniuses can't help but strut their stuff with watercolors, clay, chalk and - sand? You won't want to miss this!
Jepson Center & Telfair Children's Art Museum
Now - June 23, 2024
- Of a Feather: Birds in Art - Humans have always been captivated by birds' vibrant feathers, flight and songs. Birds represent various aspects of human life, from spirituality to national pride. They serve as "early warning signs" for environmental health, helping us understand ecosystem balances. This connection inspires artists to create works that showcase their unique species and behaviors. Some artists even craft decorative pieces to capture their beauty. This exhibit showcases a collection of art from Telfair's permanent collection. The pieces show how birds have inspired artists.
Now - April 28, 2024
- Retreating - Come and marvel at the captivating photo collages by the talented Polish-American artist, designer and professor, Wioleta Kaminska. Her breathtaking pieces will take you on a journey to another world, where Icelandic landscapes have been digitally transformed into six awe-inspiring, larger-than-life artworks. Guest judge Hannah Israel calls these photos "illusive visual explorations." They show us the incredible power and importance of nature. Let's face it: we all need more nature, especially when stuck inside. Despite the allure of artist residencies in Iceland, Kaminska's work is more than just a travelogue. These photos offer a unique view of our changing environment and serve as a wake-up call for the current climate crisis. Experience the beauty of nature and reflect on our role in the current situation.
Now - April 7, 2024
- Making Marks 2023: Community Art Exhibition - Discover the awe-inspiring Making Marks exhibit at Telfair Museums. This community art show celebrates the therapeutic power of art. It features works by local artists of all ages, abilities and backgrounds. Created during Telfair's 2023 Health and Social Services Outreach Programming, these artworks were inspired by Created Beasts' sculptures. Participants showcased their creativity using unique materials like newspaper, plaster gauze and faux gemstones. The exhibit also includes pieces from Telfair's Veterans' Guided Open Studio Program and Savannah-Chatham County Public Schools, highlighting the talent of students from kindergarten to grade 12. Making Marks is more than just an art display. It's a powerful reminder of art's transformative and empowering role in self-discovery and expression. Join the community and witness something truly extraordinary.
Now - April 22
- Earth Angel - As you enter the Jepson Center's atrium, prepare to be dazzled by the massive, glimmering sculpture that practically screams for your attention. Aptly named Earth Angel, this stunning butterfly creation is the brainchild of the dynamic duo known as FriendsWithYou - better known as the artistic tag team of Samuel Borkson and Arturo Sandoval III from Los Angeles. Their mission? To bring us all together in a cosmic friendship circle and create a sense of community across the globe. And what better way to kick off this planetary party than with a giant reflective butterfly? And that mirrored surface? It's a not-so-subtle reminder that we're all connected. So take a good look at yourself in this mystical creature, and see the magic unfold as you're transformed into a new, improved version of yourself.
Ongoing
- Before Midnight: Bonaventure and The Bird Girl - Move over, Broadway! While Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil takes the stage this summer, Telfair Museums has quietly showcased the real star since 2019 - Sylvia Shaw Judson's iconic Bird Girl sculpture. And let's be honest, she's been stealing the show since Jack Leigh's famous photograph on the book's cover. But now, you can get up close and personal with this beloved sculpture at Telfair Museums, where it's been a fan favorite for decades. But this exhibition is more than just a chance to snap some Insta-worthy pics with Bird Girl. It's a journey through the rich history and art of Bonaventure Cemetery, from the 19th-century visits of Mary Telfair to the present day. Get a glimpse of the cemetery on the brink of the Civil War with Henry Cleenewerck's romantic painting, and feast your eyes on impressionist and realist works by Emma Wilkins and Louis Bouche. And, of course, no trip to Bonaventure is complete without admiring its stunning natural and sculptural beauty, captured in vintage and modern photographs.
Laney Contemporary
Make sure to stay on top of the latest and greatest at Laney Contemporary's spring and summer showcases, where emerging artists strut their stuff and leave our minds blown with their avant-garde creations.
March 29 - June 1, 2024
Katherine Sandoz - Get ready for Katherine Sandoz's latest series of stunning works. Inspired by the ancient Lotus Sutra and the ever-changing Coastal Empire, Sandoz has created forty-four captivating pieces. Using the lotus as her muse, Sandoz masterfully weaves together layers of sky, water, and plant life. Each piece is unique, as she uses water both as a setting and a tool. Sandoz's work reminds us of the interconnectedness of all things and the infinite possibilities within ourselves. Like the resilient lotus that thrives in adversity, we too can find enlightenment in our own lives. Immerse yourself in Sandoz's lotus-inspired series and let nature's mystery and beauty wash over you. You may just find a little bit of enlightenment along the way.
City Market
April 13 - May 4, 2024
City Market Art & Soul Music Festival - Looks like our local bazaar, City Market, is stepping up their game this season with a dash of artistic flair and a sprinkle of musical awesomeness. Our outdoor shopping experience just got a whole lot more cultured.
Unleash your artistic side at the Art & Soul Music Festival - where creativity thrives and your soul blooms. Delight in a day of visual and auditory wonders while satisfying your taste buds with Savannah's finest cuisine and boutique finds. Stroll through the courtyard, where talented artists will dazzle you with their demonstrations and unique treasures. Let the music fill your ears as you groove to the sounds of different bands. Who knows, you might just make some new friends while getting your dance on in the heart of downtown. But wait, there's more! The entire City Market will be joining in on the fun with exclusive deals and discounts. Don't miss this epic celebration of art, music and good vibes. See you there!
Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD)
Now - July 29, 2024
SCAD Museum of Art - Step into the fabulous world of contemporary art at the SCAD Museum of Art! It's the hottest spot to see both rising stars and seasoned pros from all over the globe, with jaw-dropping commissioned pieces and rotating exhibitions. Plus, they're not just about the high-brow stuff - they also bring the community together with international flair and offer a creative haven for SCAD students and alumni. Don't miss out on their spring and summer lineup - it's the perfect escape from the heat!
April 27, 2024
SCAD Sidewalk Arts Festival - Prepare to have your eyes dazzled as you witness the vibrant visionaries of SCAD take over Forsyth Park for their legendary Sidewalk Arts Festival. This event is the perfect fusion of creativity, competition and good old-fashioned fun. Not only will you be mesmerized by chalk masterpieces, but you'll also have the opportunity to indulge in local delicacies and jam out to some sweet tunes. Don't miss out on this colorful extravaganza!
May 3, 2024
SCAD Sand Arts Festival - Get ready to soak up the rays and rake in some serious bragging rights at the SCAD Sand Arts Festival on Tybee Island. Our talented students and alumni will be battling it out for top honors, so expect some epic displays of creativity and skill. Whether you're a fierce competitor or just looking to bask in the beauty of sandy masterpieces, don't forget to pack a lunch, some H2O and shades to shield your eyes from all the dazzling talent.
ARTS Southeast
Now - July 5, 2024
Arts Southeast Exhibitions - Calling all art lovers and culture enthusiasts! Arts Southeast, a fantastic 501(C)3 nonprofit, is on a mission to put Savannah on the map as THE arts destination of the Southeast. They're all about supporting established and up-and-coming talented artists and engaging a diverse community with our killer programming. Their flagship program, Sulfur Studios, has 26 awe-inspiring artist studios, a Main Gallery, a Supporter Gallery and an ON:: View Artist Residency. And let's not forget their cozy co-working space and The Sulfur Shop for all your art needs. Trust us, you won't want to miss out on their spring and summer exhibitions that will blow your creative mind. Come join the fun and let them ignite your love for the arts!
Did either of these tickle your imagination's fancy? Splendid! We are eagerly awaiting the opportunity to ignite your artistic fire as our city turns up the heat. Get ready for some excitement; we're eager to see you!