Art Book Of The Week: #2

Jewelry Making Handbook

by Sharon McSwiney, Penny Williams, Claire Davies, and Jennie Davies

$12.99 at Burry Bookstore

Produce professional-looking jewelry using simple techniques and equipment and learn to work with a variety of metals, ceramics, and plastics with the Jewelry Making Handbook.

BCAC Exhibits

Below is a list of BCAC's 2009 Exhibits.

In the Jean & James Fort Gallery at the Black Creek Arts Center:

January & February - The Every Child Is An Artist Exhibit featuring Nathan Gulledge, John Herth, Jennifer Webb, Steve Roos, and Patz Fowle.

March & April - Dr. Hiller Spires' Being Home

May & June - Michael Gray's Carolina Echoes

Above: by Michael Gray

July - The Carolinas II Community Photography Exhibit (exhibit at BCAC & Hartsville Memorial Library)

August - Irish Art from the collection of Beverley Spears

Above: One of Mary Ellen Johnson's amazing food paintings. See more here.

September - The Johnson Family Show featuring Seth, Mary Ellen, & Dale Johnson

October - Darlington County Watermedia Artists - This show was done in coordination with the South Carolina Watermedia Society. Featured artists included: Frankie Bush, Heidi Bond, Marty Brown, Bob Feury, Pollie Bristow, Anna Coe, Carolyn Swallow, and Catherine Anderson. Guest artists for the exhibit were Jackie Wukela and Lynda English of Florence.

Above: by Catherine Anderson

November - Tobacco Barns of the Pee Dee: A Collection of Work by Benton Henry. This traveling exhibit was produced by BCAC and funded by the Humanities Council of South Carolina and the South Carolina Department of Parks, Recreation & Tourism.

December - 3rd Annual Christmas Shoppe

Darlington County Library Exhibits

Nathan Gulledge's Barriers Series

Shawn Lay's Unbidden Visions

Tobacco Barns of the Pee Dee

Work from the Collection of Stephan Drew

Three Creeks Visual Artisans Alliance of Marlboro County

Dr. Hiller Spires' Being Home

Exhibits in BCAC's Upstairs Gallery

Three Creeks Visual Artisans Alliance of Marlboro County
Carolyn Atkinson
Cliff Jones Photography

Now Online: Tobacco Barns of the Pee Dee

The Tobacco Barns of the Pee Dee Exhibit

can be viewed online by clicking the link below:

BCAC Online Exhibits

BCAC's 2009 Events

In 2009, BCAC presented:

Black Creek, Blue Jeans, & BBQ

Darlington Artist Crawl

Above: Members of the Darlington Artist Crawl Committee

Suzanne Muldrow, Linda Howle, Sarah Jaillette, Pollie Bristow

Several Author Luncheons with Burry Bookstore

Above: At Todd Johnson's signing of Sweet By And By.

The Long Lash Cabaret

March Madness - Free Art Classes

Coffee with Ilona

Luncheon Honoring Willard Jacobs

Viscera Dance Theatre

Gallery Disco

Audition Site for Hartsville Idol

3rd Annual Christmas Shoppe

Black Creek also hosted three summer camps for young people:

Camp Creative

Explore Art with Mike & Patz Fowle

Kindermusik Camp BCAC provided funding for the following events:

Lamar's Art in Park Series through the Friends of the Lamar Library

American Spiritual Ensemble through the Hartsville-Coker Concert Association

Tian Yang through the Hartsville-Coker Concert Association

Deathtrap presented by the Hartsville Community Players

Programming for Get Creative for the Darlington County Library

Jazz! Carolina for Hartsville Downtown Development Association

Renofest for Hartsville Downtown Development Association

O Happy Day presented by the Hartsville Community Players

The Hartsville Civic Chorale's Christmas Concert

Mural painted by Patz Fowle at the Hartsville Memorial Library

Mural in downtown Lamar through the Darlington Chamber of Commerce


BCAC also funded eleven artist residencies in Darlington County schools through its Arts-In-Education Program. BCAC's Grant Program and Arts-In-Education Program are partially funded by the South Carolina Arts Commission.

Art Book of the Week: #1

Black Creek Arts Council and Burry Bookstore are teaming up to bring you Art Book of the Week. All books chosen are in stock at Burry Bookstore on Carolina Avenue in Hartsville. The first book is:

The Pastel Artist's Bible: An Essential Reference for the Practicing Artist

Discover the unique joys of pastel painting with this easy-to-use guide to one of the most versatile and forgiving mediums. More than 100 visual sequences reveal key techniques such as mixing, blending, scumbling, sgraffito, hatching and feathering. Includes tips on composing your painting, using color, adding highlights and shadows, and creating textured effects. Step-by-step demonstrations show how to approach a range of subjects from landscapes and flowers to portraits and still life.

Fowle Works Her Magic at the Hartsville Memorial Library

Question: What does Patz Fowle see when she looks at this wall?

Answer: An opportunity.

This once-blank wall is in the Hartsville Memorial Library on College Avenue in Hartsville. Patz Fowle worked feverishly over the Thanksgiving weekend to get the mural completed for the library's patrons. The idea for the mural came from Audrey Tripp, branch manager of the library. The magical imagery was designed by Patz Fowle.


The final touches will be put on the mural during the first week in December. More photos will be posted soon.

This project was made possible by a grant from Black Creek Arts Council, which was in part by the Sonoco Foundation, the South Carolina Arts Commission, the Susan Bennett Memorial Arts Fund of the Coastal Community Foundation, and the National Endowment for the Arts.

Holiday Ornament-Making with Bethany Perry

Bethany Perry will be leading holiday ornament-making sessions at the Black Creek Arts Center on Tuesday, December 1st and Thursday, December 3rd from 5-6pm. The sessions are free and children ages 4 to 10 are invited.

Call ahead to reserve your spot, 843.332.6234.

The ornaments will be displayed on BCAC's Christmas tree. They can be picked up on Saturday, December 19th from 10am to 2pm.

Oil Painting Workshop with Vicky McLain

On Saturday, December 12th, instuctor Vicky McLain will be offering a oil painting workshop at Black Creek Arts Center. The workshop will last from 9am-2pm. Students will be painting a beach scene...what a great escape from the cold weather season! The cost for the class is $40.

For more information or to sign up for the class, call Bethany at the Arts Center, 843.332.6234.

To view a list of supplies click here.

Ukrainian Egg Workshop: December 5th

UKRAINIAN EGG WORKSHOP INFORMATION

Accomplished Ukrainian Egg Artist Ivy McLaurin will be leadinga workshop on December 5th at the Black Creek Arts Center.

Students will learn the history and legends associated with this centuries-old technique. Students will learn to use the ancient "candle" method as well as being taught using eletric kistky. Cost for the is $70. All supplies are included in the price.

The workshop will last from 10am to 4pm. Please bring your own lunch. Drinks will be provided by the Arts Council.

Call Bethany Perry at the Arts Center to sign up, 843.332.6234. The class size is limited to ten students. Call soon to reserve your place.

Linear Perspective Drawing Class

Jim Stratton is offering a Linear Perspective Drawing Class at Black Creek Arts Center on Saturday, November 14. The class will last from 10-1pm. Cost for the class is $40. Students only need to bring a pencil and drawing pad to class.

The class will include a lecture and demonstrations on simple perspective techniques, aerial perspective and finally linear perspective. The students will "draw along" to the demonstrations and will draw from life during the third hour using the techniques learned earlier in the session. You will learn how to use basic drawing principles and simple shapes to build complicated objects in perspective. You will also recieve several handouts to take home and study after the class.

BCAC to Host Dance Theatre Performance on November 7th

Coker Alum Kirven to Return to Hartsville

The word path could be defined as a route or course along which something travels or moves. Fortunately for Hartsville, Jack Kirven's path has passed through town on more than one occasion.

As a Coker alum, Kirven is no stranger to College Avenue. The Black Creek Arts Center on College Avenue will be hosting Kirven's first professional performance in Hartsville. Along with Annie Vereen, Kirven will perform Path on November 7th at 7:30 in the gallery at the Black Creek Arts Center. General admission tickets are $10. Student tickets are $5.

Kirven and Vereen make up Viscera Dance Theatre, a modern theatrical dance company currently based in Charlotte.

Path is a true multimedia work that uses elements of dance, theatre, live music, storytelling, film and soundscapes. Each component is integrated in such a way that the performance would not be complete with any element missing.

Path is a seven‐section dance‐drama focusing on the gradual transformation of characters over the course of a narrative. Using “Little Red Riding Hood” as a template, the action focuses on the ways in which subtleties are repeated and changed as the protagonist ventures further off the path.

Path has been performed in Charlotte, Rock Hill, and Columbia. Future venues for the performance include Atlanta and California.

Viscera Dance Theatre was nominated for three Metrolina Theatre Association awards in Charlotte in 2009 (Outstanding Special Technical Element, Outstanding Duo, and Best Lead Male).

Path is intended for mature audiences. Call the Black Creek Arts Center to purchase tickets, 843.332.6234. All major credit cards accepted.

The mission of Black Creek Arts Council is to promote and foster the Arts in Darlington County. BCAC’s offices are housed in a state of the art 10,000 square foot facility at 116 West College Avenue in Hartsville, SC. BCAC offers a variety of programs including art classes of all styles, after-school activities, pre-school aged programs, private music lessons, and various types of gallery exhibits. BCAC also offers assistance with arts management, funding, education, and program coordination to arts and cultural organizations in Darlington County.

On Display at BCAC: Woodworker Tommy Webb

Above: Seat and Armrest of a Maloof Chair

Sam Maloof is generally considered to be one of America's top furniture makers and woodworkers of all time. Maloof, who passed away in May, has work in the Metropolitan Museum of Art, the Los Angeles County Museum of Art, and the Smithsonian American Art Museum. That's alot of art museums to have work in for a man who didn't call himself an aritst. That's right, Maloof preferred to be called a woodworker rather than artist.

In staying true to both Maloof's craft and unassuming demeanor, Hartsville's Tommy Webb has created a technically and visually amazing rocking chair. Webb's chair is currently on display at the Black Creek Arts Center in Hartsville.

Modeled after Maloof's style from the 1970s, Webb's chair is a worthy replica. Just as he shares Maloof's love for woodworking, attention to detail, and humility, it's time for Webb to now share one of Maloof's monikers; you'll agree after seeing the chair, that he's Hartsville's Hemingway of the Hardwood.

Stop by the Black Creek Arts Center at 116 West College Avenue in Hartsville to see Webb's chair.

New Exhibit Encourages Viewer Interaction

The next exhibit in the Cecelia Coker Bell Gallery at Coker College features work initiated by Wendy DesChene. As you can read below, DesChene is as much catalyst as creator.

The information below was provided by Larry Merriman, Professor of Art at Coker College.

Wendy DesChene wants your stuffed animals. She also invites you to collaborate on her installation in the Cecelia Coker Bell Gallery, which for her show, will become the Wikipedia of art installations. Over fall break (October 15-18), she will install the background paintings and some basic structure for the kind of installations you see above. Ms. DesChene will be present for a short residency Monday and Tuesday, the 19th and 20th, and will work with anyone willing to collaborate on the installation. For the remaining three and a half weeks, her show, much like a Wikipedia topic, can be altered (by anyone) following the guidelines suggested by Ms. DesChene during her residency. For a start, if you have any stuffed animals to donate, now or when you return from fall break, you can put them in the cardboard box next to the art gallery in the Gladys Fort Art Building. Please note that Wendy’s approach to this project is slightly off center—the fluffy white object in the top picture is made from insides of formerly stuffed animals—Peter Rabbit might want to stay home. This project is not limited to art students, but is open to all students, faculty, and staff. If you have questions, please call Larry Merriman at 383-8156 or email at lmerriman@coker.edu.

Artist’s Statement
Currently I have a body of work touring called WYSIWYG. So far it has made stops in Philadelphia Texas, Florida, and Ohio. It's an installation that began as a personal exploration of cute, which I was also using to parallel American art history. In the same way a grizzly bear is made acceptable for a babies crib, the great avant- garde of art has been made palatable and cuddly by being put on the life support of the museum wall, or on a coffee mug in the museum shop. After WYSIWYG, a large-scale oil painting/installation was retired from its original site, it continued to grow and change meaning by interacting with new communities. In each new community a workshop is held which invites the new audience to donate materials from their lives and create elements to add to the installation. At every stop it grows both in size and universal significance. It is a B-Movie monster, eating away at the gallery walls and Frankenstiened by my own reactions to art materials, audience, environment and critical reactions to philosophy and art history.

Biography Wendy DesChene is a Canadian multi-disciplinary artist working in America. She has exhibited her work in China, Japan, Italy, and Canada and all over the United States. Often she creates situations for community to become involved in arts creation. By doing this she works against creating art whose presence exists only on the life support of museum and gallery walls. Another of her interests is to critique the systems of art historical guardianship, while weaving issues of her identity and the conflicts created therein. South Carolina is WYSIWYG’s 8th stop on its national tour.

Coker College upholds and defends the intellectual and artistic freedom of its faculty and students as they study and create art through which they explore the full spectrum of human experience. The college considers such pursuits central to the spirit of inquiry and thoughtful discussion, which are at the heart of a liberal arts education.

Stained Glass Class with Cheryl Wingert

Cheryl Wingert will be offering a Beginner's Stained Glass Class on Mondays in November beginning November 9th. The class will meet 6-8pm and the cost is $65. Students will be provided with overview of stained glass methods, including copper foil and leaded glass. Students will make one or more copper foiled sun catcher projects (or Christmas ornaments). All materials included. Instruction time will be approximately 8 hours. Class limited to 6 students.

Call Bethany at the Black Creek Arts Center to sign up, 843.332.6234.

Business of Art Series at BCAC

Erica Bailey will be offering a day long workshop series on the Business of Art. It will include 4 sessions on topics such as pricing, creating a low cost online presence, building & writing an artist's resume, artist statement and bio, and digital tips for artists. It will also include a mini session on digital photography. This class should be a great resource for artists in our area.

The class will take place at the Black Creek Arts Center on Friday, November 13. It will last from 9:00-4:00. The cost for the class is $150.

Call Bethany at the Black Creek Arts Center to sign up, 843.332.6234.

Reclaimed, Recycled, Hardware Store Jewelry Workshop

Let's have fun! This workshop will combine a variety of unique techniques and materials. Using a variety of re-purposed objects (tin cans, old jewelry, buttons, bottle caps, etc.) and cool stuff from the hardware store we will create some really great jewelry. Earrings, necklaces and/or bracelets can be created. Come and join us- this will be a blast! Bring any old bits that you have hanging around...we may be able to turn them into something fantastic.

This class will take place Saturday, November 14, at the Black Creek Arts Center from 9-4. Erica Bailey will be instructing the workshop. The cost for the class is $150 and includes consumable supplies and materials. Click here to access the supply list.

Call Bethany at the Black Creek Arts Center to sign up, 843.332.6234.

Come & Explore Art History

A new children's class EXPLORING ART HISTORY, is being offered in November with teacher Bethany Perry. The class will explore several famous artists' lives and work, through art making, story telling, books, games and songs. The class will be offered on Wednesdays in November, from Nov 4- Nov 25. The class will take place at Birds Of A Feather, in Darlington. The time for the class is 4-5:15. 5k through 3rd grades are welcome. The cost for the class is $35.

Call Bethany at the Black Creek Arts Center to sign up, 843.332.6234.

Mondays with Michelle Starting Again for November

Beginning on November 2nd, Michelle Morris will be offering art classes on Mondays from 4:00 to 5:15. These classes will cover all types of art, from painting to mixed media, and from drawing to sculpture. Mondays with Michelle will run for four weeks. The cost for the class is $25.

Call Bethany at the Arts Center to sign up, 843.332.6234.

Glass Bead Making Class Coming Soon

Local artist, Tim Walters will be offering a one day workshop on Glass Bead Making-the ancient art of flame-working glass. The class will teach the basics of the art form and give everyone a chance to make their own glass bead or sculpture.

The class will take place at Black Creek Arts Center on November 21, from 10-2. The cost for the class is $75 and includes all supplies needed for the class. This class will be a fun learning experience and a great chance to give a hand-made gift to someone for Christmas.

Call Bethany at the Black Creek Arts Center to sign up, 843.332.6234.

Jim Stratton to Teach Intermediate Oil Painting

Jim Stratton will be instructing an intermediate level oil painting class. The class will meet on Mondays from 10-12, starting on October 19, and last for 5 weeks. Cost for the class is $85. This is a great class for painters with some experience looking to skip the beginner instruction of working with oils.

Call Bethany at the Black Creek Arts Center to sign up, 843.332.6234.

Fowle to Show in Philadelphia

Black Creek Arts Council would like to congratulate Patz Fowle for being juried into the 2010 exhibition, "FILL-adelphia". The show is organized by The Potters Council and is being held in conjunction with the National Council on Education for the Ceramic Arts (NCECA) conference.

The exhibit will be held at the A Show of Hands Gallery from March 19--April 30, 2010, with a public reception on April 2, 2010.

To learn more about the Potters Council, click here.

Musik Garten Classes Starting Soon

Musik Garten classes to be offered at Black Creek Arts Center starting October 20th and 21th. The classes will run for 8 weeks. Devvy Ridgill will be teaching the 3 learning sessions.

On Tuesdays, there will be two sessions of "Cycle of Seasons." This class is for ages 3-5. Available times are 4:00-4:45 and 5:00-5:45. The price for the class is $165, which includes the 10 classes and materials-a set of instruments, CD, bells and parent book.

On Wednesday mornings, "Family Music" will be held from 9:30-10:00 and is for newborns to 18months. The price for this class is $155 which includes the parent book, CD and baby instrument kit.

Please call Black Creek Arts Council for more info or to sign up for classes 843.332.6234

To read more about Musik Garten see their website http://www.musikgarten.org/

Ilona to Offer Four One-Day Workshops in October

Ilona's Hands by Suzanne Muldrow

IIlona Smithkin will kick off her 2009 Tour of South Carolina with a one-day oil painting workshop on October 10th. The workshop will take place from 9am to 4pm at the Black Creek Arts Center. This still-life workshop will be perfect for beginning and experienced painters. Cost for the workshop is $70 and lunch will be provided.

In addition to the oil painting workshop on October 10th, Ilona will also be leading three one-day workshops the following week. On Monday, October 12th, she will be leading a portrait workshop at the Arts Center from 9:30 – 12:30. The cost for the class is $35.

On Tuesday, Ilona will be in Darlington at Birds Of A Feather to lead a portrait workshop from 9:30 to 12:30. The cost for this workshop will also be $35. On Wednesday, Ilona will be back at the Black Creek Arts Center to lead a workshop on painting flowers. The cost for this workshop will also be $35 and it will last from 9:30 to 12:30.


Call the Black Creek Arts Center to sign up for any of these workshops, 843.332.6234.

Three Exhibits to Open October 1st in Hartsville

BCAC, Feury’s, and Library to Host Exhibits

Three art exhibits will debut on the same night in downtown Hartsville. The Black Creek Arts Center, Feury Fine Art, and the Hartsville Memorial Library will be hosting the new exhibits. A Gallery Crawl is scheduled for October 1st from 5-8pm.

The Black Creek Arts Center and Feury Fine Art will be hosting work by Watermedia artists. Watermedia is loosely defined as acrylic and watercolor painting. Among the artists on display will be Frankie Bush, Heidi Bond, Anna Coe, Pollie Bristow, Carolyn Swallow, Catherine Anderson, Marty Brown, Lynda English, and Jackie Wukela.

At the Hartsville Library will be work done by current and retired Sonoco employees. The library is hosting the Second Annual Sonoco Art Show.

The two watermedia exhibits are being held in conjunction with the South Carolina Watermedia Society’s annual retreat, which is being held in Florence this year. Darlington County is the home of the current President of the Watermedia Society, Pollie Bristow of Darlington.

The Arts Council, Library, and the Feury’s graciously invite everyone out for this exciting night of art openings. All venues are open to the public and have no admission charges.

The mission of Black Creek Arts Council is to promote and foster the Arts in Darlington County. BCAC’s offices are housed in a state of the art 10,000 square foot facility at 116 West College Avenue in Hartsville, SC. BCAC offers a variety of programs including art classes of all styles, after-school activities, pre-school aged programs, private music lessons, and various types of gallery exhibits. BCAC also offers assistance with arts management, funding, education, and program coordination to arts and cultural organizations in Darlington County.

Workshop Weekend Set For October 10th

Oil Painting, Watercolor, & Photoshop Elements Workshop Coming to BCAC

Above: Ilona Smithkin

Over the second weekend in October, the Black Creek Arts Center will be hosting three workshops: Oil Painting with Ilona Smithkin, Watercolors with Anne Patterson, and Photoshop Elements with Duane Childers.

Ilona Smithkin will kick off her 2009 Tour of South Carolina with a one-day oil painting workshop on October 10^th. The workshop will take place from 9am to 4pm at the Black Creek Arts Center. This still-life workshop will be perfect for beginning and experienced painters. Cost for the workshop is $70 and lunch will be provided.

Anne Patterson will be leading a watercolor workshop on October 9^th and 10^th. The two-day workshop will cost $150 (lunch provided on Saturday) and meets from 10am-4pm both days. Patterson’s workshop is going to focus on teaching participants what makes color vibrant and how to use color to create a calm and serene image. Patterson will also teach participants to become more expressive and adept in understanding the impact of color choices in watercolor paintings.

Above: A watercolor painting by Anne Patterson

Call the Black Creek Arts Center to register and get supply lists for these painting workshops, 843.332.6234.

Duane Childers will also be offering a workshop on October 10^th. Duane’s workshop is called Photoshop Elements for Football Widows. The workshop will meet on October 10^th and 17^th from 10am to 4pm. The cost for the class is $180, with a reduced fee for participants who already have Photoshop Elements 7. Lunch will be provided on October 10^th.

In addition to the oil painting workshop on October 10^th, Ilona will also be leading three one-day workshops the following week. On Monday, October 12^th, she will be leading a portraiture workshop at the Arts Center from 9:30 – 12:30. The cost for the class is $35.

On Tuesday, Ilona will be in Darlington at Birds Of A Feather to lead a portraiture workshop from 9:30 to 12:30. The cost for this workshop will also be $35. On Wednesday, Ilona will be back at the Black Creek Arts Center to lead a workshop on painting flowers. The cost for this workshop will also be $35 and it will last from 9:30 to 12:30.

Participants of Ilona’s workshops should plan to leave with a completed painting. Call the Black Creek Arts Center to register and get supply lists, 843.332.6234.

Ilona’s visit to Darlington County will conclude with the Long Lash Cabaret on October 17^th. Call the Arts Center for tickets, 843.332.6234.

The mission of Black Creek Arts Council is to promote and foster the Arts in Darlington County. BCAC’s offices are housed in a state of the art 10,000 square foot facility at 116 West College Avenue in Hartsville, SC. BCAC offers a variety of programs including art classes of all styles, after-school activities, pre-school aged programs, private music lessons, and various types of gallery exhibits. BCAC also offers assistance with arts management, funding, education, and program coordination to arts and cultural organizations in Darlington County.

Three Exhibits to Open on October 1st

Arts Center, Library, and Feury Fine Art to Open New Exhibits

Three art exhibits will debut on the same night in downtown Hartsville. The Black Creek Arts Center, Feury Fine Art, and the Hartsville Memorial Library will be hosting the new exhibits. A Gallery Crawl is scheduled for October 1^st from 5-8pm.

The Black Creek Arts Center and Feury Fine Art will be hosting work by Watermedia artists. Watermedia is loosely defined as acrylic and watercolor painting. Among the artists on display will be Frankie Bush, Heidi Bond, Anna Coe, Pollie Bristow, Carolyn Swallow, Catherine Anderson, Marty Brown, Lynda English, and Jackie Wukela.

At the Hartsville Library will be work done by current and retired Sonoco employees. The library is hosting the Second Annual Sonoco Art Show.

The two watermedia exhibits are being held in conjunction with the South Carolina Watermedia Society’s annual retreat, which is being held in Florence this year. Darlington County is the home of the current President of the Watermedia Society, Pollie Bristow of Darlington.

The Arts Council, Library, and the Feury’s graciously invite everyone out for this exciting night of art openings. All venues are open to the public and have no admission charges.

The mission of Black Creek Arts Council is to promote and foster the Arts in Darlington County. BCAC’s offices are housed in a state of the art 10,000 square foot facility at 116 West College Avenue in Hartsville, SC. BCAC offers a variety of programs including art classes of all styles, after-school activities, pre-school aged programs, private music lessons, and various types of gallery exhibits. BCAC also offers assistance with arts management, funding, education, and program coordination to arts and cultural organizations in Darlington County.

Long Lash Cabaret set for October 17th

Smithkin, Local Talent to Give Performance to Benefit Darlington County's Arts Council

Ilona Smithkin will be returning to the Black Creek Arts Center for the second annual Long Lash Cabaret. On October 17^th, Hartsville’s College Avenue will be bustling with talented entertainers from the local area and one electric octogenarian from New York City.

Ilona, along with a variety of local talent, will transform the gallery at the Arts Center into a cabaret, all for the benefit of the Arts Council. Ilona will be performing songs originally recorded by Marlene Dietrich. Joining Ilona in the night’s entertainment will be Greg Best, Jim Beaumier, Roger Simpson, Tracy Price, Dustin Moree, Al Haynes, Ron Price, Jana Longfellow, Craig Beshures, Dyana Marrero Flax, Joyce Beasley, Melinda Byrd, Cheryl Smith and perhaps a couple of surprises.

The Long Lash Cabaret will begin at 6:30 with appetizers and drinks. The show will get underway at 7:00. Tickets for the event can be purchased at the Black Creek Arts Center located at 116 W. College Avenue or by phone at 843.332.6234. Ticket prices are $40 for individuals and $75 for couples. Tickets must be purchased in advance.

The mission of Black Creek Arts Council is to promote and foster the Arts in Darlington County. BCAC’s offices are housed in a state of the art 10,000 square foot facility at 116 West College Avenue in Hartsville, SC. BCAC offers a variety of programs including art classes of all styles, after-school activities, pre-school aged programs, private music lessons, and various types of gallery exhibits. BCAC also offers assistance with arts management, funding, education, and program coordination to arts and cultural organizations in Darlington County.

BCAC Receives Support From State Arts Commission

BCAC RECIEVES GRANT FROM S.C ARTS COMMISSION

Black Creek Arts Council (BCAC) has been awarded a $10,000 grant by the South Carolina Arts Commission. The two-year grant will support BCAC’s off-site events, programs, and projects.

BCAC has announced partnerships with the Darlington Library, Birds Of A Feather of Darlington, and the City of Darlington in conjunction with the grant. Through these collaborative efforts, BCAC will offer arts education classes, rotating exhibits, and educational workshops. “This funding speaks directly to our mission of promoting and fostering the Arts in the communities of Darlington County,” said Bruce Douglas, Executive Director of BCAC.

Local residents can see how the Arts Commission grant and local funds are benefiting Black Creek Arts Council by visiting the Allard A. Alston Conference Room at the Darlington County and viewing the rotating exhibits or stopping by Birds Of A Feather for a tour of the facility and to get information about upcoming classes. Visit www.blackcreekarts.org for more information.

The South Carolina Arts Commission is the state agency charged with creating a thriving arts environment that benefits all South Carolinians, regardless of their location or circumstances.

Created by the South Carolina General Assembly in 1967, the Arts Commission is working to increase public participation in the arts by providing services, grants and leadership initiatives in three areas: arts education, community arts development and artistic development. Headquartered in Columbia, S.C., the Arts Commission is funded by the state of South Carolina and by the federal government though the National Endowment for the Arts. For more information, visit www.SouthCarolinaArts.com or call (803) 734-8696.

The mission of Black Creek Arts Council is to promote and foster the Arts in Darlington County. BCAC’s offices are housed in a state of the art 10,000 square foot facility at 116 West College Avenue in Hartsville, SC. BCAC offers a variety of programs including art classes of all styles, after-school activities, pre-school aged programs, private music lessons, and various types of gallery exhibits. BCAC also offers assistance with arts management, funding, education, and program coordination to arts and cultural organizations in Darlington County.

Three Creeks Visual Artisans Alliance Exhibit at the Darlington Library

Penny's Peaches by Donald Wayne Chavis

Now through the end of October, paintings by members of The Three Creeks Visual Artisans Alliance will be on display at the Darlington Library.

The Three Creeks Visual Artisans Alliance is made up of artists and artisans from Marlboro County. On display in the libary are paintings by: Donald Wayne Chavis, Patricia Gehm, Carolyn Karn, Martha C. Rankin, Janice Rozier, Johnsie Stidd, and R. Thomas Wimberly.

This exhibit is made possible through collaboration by Black Creek Arts Council and the Darlington Library. Funding for this exhibit and future exhibits in the Allard A. Alston Conference Room through the aforementioned partnership has been provided by the South Carolina Arts Commission.

For more information about The Three Creek Visual Artisans Alliance, click here.

Photography Classes with Duane Childers

Duane Childers will be leading the following photography classes in September and October:

Beginning Photography will be taught on Mondays from September 14th through October 19th. The class will take place from 6pm to 7:30pm at the Black Creek Arts Center. The cost is $95.

Childers' Beginning Photography Class is also appropriate as a refresher class.

Beginning Photography for Football Widows will take place over two Saturdays, September 12th & 19th. The class will begin at 10am and end at 4pm. The cost for the class is $85. This class is perfect for women who have husbands perched in front of a TV all weekend during the Fall.

Photoshop Elements for Football Widows will take place over two Saturdays, October 10th & 17th. The class will begin at 10am and end at 4pm.

The cost for Photoshop Elements is $180. If you already have Photoshop Elements 7, the price is reduced to $100.

Call Bruce at the Arts Center to register for these photography classes, 843.332.6234.

Not Your Average Jones

For the month of September, photographer Cliff Jones will have work on display at Hartsville Memorial Library. Cliff Jones....that sure is an average name.

Average is not a word to be used when describing Cliff Jones.

Above: I Can't Read Your Writing Spider

After spending a few minutes in Hartsville Memorial Libary's Serpentine Gallery, it is obvious that Cliff's talents behind a lens are amazing. A closer look at the labels that accompany his photographs let you know that Cliff also has a way with words.

"If I can entertain or make someone smile with any of my photos then I have done my job," says the Hartsville-native about his photos. Smile you will do if you visit this exhibit. Cliff's clever titles and light-hearted approach to photography are refreshing and, well, anything but average; proving Cliff is not your average Jones.

Above: Kudzu Colosseum
Most people venture to Rome to see the Colosseum. Not Cliff Jones. He found it right here in the rural South.

Cliff Jones is a avid baseball fan and currently resides in Hartsville with his wife, Beth, and children, Kira and Noah.

Cliff recently won two awards at The Carolinas II photography contest. He received first place in the Images of Darlington County category and won one of the two People's Choice Awards. The Carolinas II was a community photography exhibit presented by Black Creek Arts Council and Hartsville Memorial Library and sponsored by Sonoco.

Hartsville Memorial Library is located 147 W. College Ave. The library is open Monday through Thursday from 9am to 8pm and Fridays from 9am to 5pm. On weekends, the library is open on Saturdays from 10am to 2pm and Sundays from 2pm to 5pm.

Cliff can be reached via email at cliff@bones13.com or visit him on the web at www.bones13.com.

A Closing Quote from Cliff:

You can’t take yourself too serious, you must have some fun with everything you do. I think Ferris Bueller said it best, “Life moves pretty fast. If you don’t stop and look around once in a while, you could miss it.”

Patz Fowle Spent The Summer in Chicago & Kansas City

Above: Patz Posing in Front of Warhol

Darlington County artist Patz Fowle recently spent some time at the Teacher Institute of Contemporary Art at the Art Institute of Chicago and the Kansas City Art Institute.

Above: The view from Patz' Dorm Room

Patz on her time in Chicago:

During my two weeks at TICA's drawing and oil painting sessions (June 6-17), I had 81 hours of studio practice and 12 hours of lectures and presentations, and I never wanted it to end! Another awesome things about the TICA program is having the Art Institute of Chicago connected to the school; it's like one colossal cultural classroom. I also had the opportunity to study at the Museum of Contemporary Art Chicago. My husband, Mike, joined me on the weekend and we explored everything that the city had to offer. Chicago was overflowing with art. It was everywhere your eyes landed and it was just what my eyes needed as an art educator and artist!

Above: Patz began work on a portrait of Ilona Smithkin during her time away.

After leaving Chicago, Patz took her talents to Kansas City for the Summer Educators ArtLab at the Kansas City Art Institute.

30 high school art educators from around the world (teaching grades 9-12) were accepted to attend the Kansas City Art Institute Educators ArtLab week-long studio workshop.

The summer of 2009 featured two studio concentrations: Painting, with Assistant Professor Jessie Fisher and Sculpture, with Jim Whitworth.

Applicants chose one of the studios in which to study. Participants had the opportunity to spend 24 hours with their facilitator, plus an additional nine evening studio hours with a technical assistant and/or their facilitator. Artwork produced during the Educators ArtLab was exhibited at the H&R Block Artspace Exhibition Gallery at the end of the week.

Patz chose to do sculpture workshop with Jim Whitworth.

Above: Patz' Color Cones (created in Kansas City)

Black Creek Arts Council would like to congratulate Patz on her accomplishments this summer.

Christmas Shoppe 2010: Guidelines

The Christmas Shoppe is open to all artists, craftsmen, and sculptors with original work. Absolutely no dealers, retailers, imports, or work from kits. All merchandise is to be inside the Arts Center and set up for display by 4pm on Thursday, November 18th. Exhibitors are expected to be ready for business 30 minutes prior to opening on Friday and Saturday.

Advertising: The Christmas Shoppe will be extensively advertised in the local media, as well as through e-blasts, posters, and social media.

Spaces: Each artist will be given a 6-ft. table. The six feet is the width of the booth space. You will be supplied two chairs. You will be required to provide your own table coverings. Only works by approved artists can be sold in the prepaid booth space. You are not allowed to share space with another artist or sale another artist's works in your space.

Electricity: If you need electricity, heavy duty electrical cords and power strips are recommended. Cords must be covered with duct tape. The tape must be removed by the artist after the event.

Miscellaneous: Stock boxes must be kept out of sight. You cannot tear down your space until the show is over.

Applications must be received by 5pm on September 15th. Artists will be contacted by September 30th with the decision of the jury. Applications can be submitted to Jordan Heydt at bartscounc@aol.com. Include your name, address, phone number(s), a brief description of your work, and at least 3 jpegs of your work in the email. Hard copies of the application materials can be received by calling Jordan Heydt at 843.332.6234.

Payment Upon Jury Notification: Payment for your space is due by October 15th. You do not need to pay until you are notified of your inclusion in the Christmas Shoppe by BCAC.

Wan Marsh To Teach Collage Workshop on Sept. 26th

Wan Marsh
99.9% green art

Artist Biography

Growing up in the South Wan was taught to be thrifty. Nothing was discarded if it had an ounce of life in it. Clothes, tools and toys were all passed down. Maybe this explains her reluctance to be wasteful or take anything to the trash.

Wan has been a “green” artist her whole life without realizing it until recently. When discovering mixed media collage she found her calling, an outlet of expression and a purpose for all her “found and saved objects.”

Her art is about recycling, repurposing and reinventing. Her work demonstrates skill and willingness to experiment using a variety of very unconventional materials.
She does this out of a need to change things, create her own order and revisit the past. Wan looks at what others may see as trash and sees possibilities.

Through her art she has found a way to transform the mundane into the sublime, the discarded into the collectable, and the unappreciated, tossed aside parts of life into beauty. She sees art in almost any object.

Wan is a mixed media artist whose work has been featured in shows and has won numerous awards, the latest being The Members Hall of Fame Award on Ovation TV and two assemblages accepted in The CPCC Recycled Art Show.

Wan studied art at the Governor’s School of North Carolina at Salem College in Winston Salem North Carolina. She has also studied at The Penland School of Crafts, Spirit Square, the Mint Museum and CPCC in Charlotte North Carolina. She has worked with many nationally known collage and mixed media artists. She has a degree in design and a horticulture technology degree specializing in landscape design.

Wan has taught decorative painting classes at CPCC in Charlotte and art classes in the CMS school system. She also teaches painting, mixed media and collage privately.

Her mixed media collages consist of, but are not limited to:

paint, paper, wood, glass, photography, metal, fiber and found objects.

She also incorporates many of her unique decorative painting techniques to achieve unlimited effects.

Wan's workshop at BCAC will be held Sept. 26th from 10am to 4pm. Cost for the class is $110 and the Materials List can be viewed by clicking here.