Charleston’s Art Scene: Festivals, Galleries & Events You Can’t Miss
In Charleston, history & creativity collide, making it a dream destination for art lovers. From world-renowned art festivals to charming local galleries & inspiring events, Charleston’s art scene is as colorful as its historic streets. Whether you’re a seasoned collector, a casual admirer, a creative yourself or simply looking for a unique cultural experience, we’re guiding you through the can’t-miss festivals, galleries & events that bring the Holy City to life. Scroll on & get ready to immerse yourself in Charleston’s artistic soul.
FESTIVALS & EVENTS
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Art Charleston
This five-day festival, brought to life by the Gibbes Museum of Art, focuses on visual arts through artist lectures, panel discussions, gallery walks, professional workshops, signature events, unique experiences & exhibition tours led by experts.
First Friday ArtWalk
On the first Friday of every month (except January & July), the Charleston Gallery Association provides the opportunity for you to stroll through some of the most lively downtown neighborhoods & tour multiple galleries, meet artists & experience the vibrant local art scene.
MOJA Arts Festival
MOJA Arts Festival is an annual celebration of Black arts & culture, as well as the artistic contributions to the world through African American & Caribbean legacies. The festival features a range of events highlighting visual arts, classical music, dance, gospel, jazz, poetry, R&B music, storytelling, theatre, children’s activities, traditional crafts & local cuisine.
North Charleston Arts Fest
This multi-day, multi-venue event features performances, exhibits & activities highlighting local & regional artists & performers in the areas of visual arts, dance, music, theatre & literature. The festival offers something for everyone, including concerts, theatre presentations, children’s programs, demonstrations & more.
SEWE
The Southeastern Wildlife Exposition is the nation’s premier celebration of wildlife art, conservation efforts & the Great Outdoors. SEWE curates a collection of fine art from the nation’s most talented wildlife painters & sculptors. Every year, the show recognizes one accomplished artist, who creates the event’s anticipated “Featured Piece.”
Piccolo Spoleto
Piccolo Spoleto is the companion to Spoleto Festival USA & focuses on local & regional artists, offering a community-oriented arts experience. This event includes outdoor concerts, art exhibitions, poetry readings, children’s programs & more.
Spoleto Festival USA
The Spoleto Festival is a world-renowned performing arts festival featuring world-class performances & international artists, filling Charleston’s venues with opera, theater, dance & musical performances.
The Charleston Festival
The Charleston Festival is a month-long celebration of art, design, culture & preservation through art exhibitions, tours, engaging lectures & more. All proceeds benefit Historic Charleston Foundation & its mission-driven work.
The Charleston Show
The Charleston Show brings together 30 exhibitors from the United States, England & Europe to showcase traditional & contemporary art & ceramics, folk art, prints & maps, garden & architectural antiques & more.
GALLERIES
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Anglin Smith Fine Art
Atrium Art Gallery
Charleston Crafts Cooperative Gallery
City Gallery at Waterfront Park
Corrigan Gallery
Dare Gallery
Gibbes Museum of Art
Grand Bohemian Gallery
Halsey Institute of Contemporary Art
Helena Fox Fine Art
Jonathan Green Studios
Lowcountry Artists Gallery
Meyer Vogl Gallery
Meyer Vogl Gallery – Daniel Island
North Charleston City Gallery
Peter Anthony Fine Art
Revealed Art Gallery
Sandpiper Gallery
The City Hall Gallery
Wells Gallery
ARTISTS & EXPERIENCES
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Adele’s Pottery
Michael Mitchell
Rebecca Illustrated
Before you go, explore more of Charleston’s arts & culture scene here.
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