Get Involved & Showcase Your Creativity at Stormwater Studios
Call for Exhibitions: 2026 & 2027 Seasons
Stormwater Studios is now accepting exhibition proposals for the 2026 and 2027 gallery seasons. Artists are invited to submit concepts for solo or group exhibitions that demonstrate a cohesive vision, strong conceptual grounding, and a compelling use of space.
Our gallery operates as an adaptable platform for creative presentation — welcoming exhibitions that range from traditional to experimental, minimal to immersive. We encourage proposals that consider not only the work itself, but the visitor experience, spatial relationships, and opportunities for engagement.
Situated in Columbia’s Vista district, Stormwater Studios offers a distinctive environment for exhibition and programming. The gallery’s modular design, adjustable lighting, and open layout allow artists to shape the space in ways that support their ideas rather than constrain them. Indoor and outdoor areas further expand possibilities for receptions, artist talks, and public interaction.
Exhibitions at Stormwater Studios connect artists with an active and diverse audience of visitors, collectors, and fellow creatives. Our programming emphasizes accessibility, dialogue, and meaningful encounters with contemporary artistic practice.
Proposals for both seasons are currently under review. Early submissions are encouraged.
Submit your exhibition proposal:
www.stormwaterstudios.org/exhibition
Building Bridges Through Art & Common Grounds: Call for Entries
Stormwater Studios is thrilled to announce two Calls for Entry that connect artists with local university galleries and nonprofit organizations, celebrating creativity and community engagement.
Building Bridges Through Art 2026: Where Creativity Meets Community
In partnership with the Women’s Rights & Empowerment Network (WREN), this exhibition invites South Carolina artists to submit work that explores social equity, women’s and girls’ experiences, advocacy, and community care.
Exhibition Dates: June 16 – June 28, 2026
Opening Reception: June 18, 2026 | 6:00 – 8:00 p.m.
Who Should Apply: Artists of all media and career stages whose work aligns with themes of social justice and systemic change.
Submission Deadline: April 1, 2026
Acceptance Notifications: April 12, 2026
How to Submit: Upload a single PDF via the Stormwater Studios Exhibit With Us page labeled Building Bridges Through Art with WREN, including:
- Name & contact info
- 3–6 images of artwork
- Titles of your work
- Optional: artist statement, bio, website, social media, CV
Common Grounds: Faculty & Staff Research and Creative Practice in the Midlands
This collaborative, three-phase exhibition connects faculty and staff from local universities to showcase research-driven and creative practices across institutions, including:
- University of South Carolina
- Benedict College
- Columbia College
- Columbia International University
- Midlands Technical College
Eligibility: Employed part-time or full-time at one of the participating institutions.
Timeline: February 17 – April 10, 2026
Acceptance Notifications: By May 15, 2026
Exhibition Schedule:
- McMaster Gallery: July 16 – August 25, 2026
- Goodall Gallery, Columbia College: Jan 14 – Feb 18, 2027
- Stormwater Studios: Summer 2027 (dates TBA)
Submission Link: Common Grounds Call for Entry
Don’t miss the chance to share your work, engage with the community, and be part of these inspiring exhibitions!
Questions? Contact Maya Smith, Operations Manager, at [email protected]
Ways to Participate at Stormwater Studios
Gallery & Event Volunteers
Become part of the energy that makes Stormwater Studios thrive. Volunteers play an essential role in supporting exhibitions, public programs, and special events throughout the year. Opportunities include serving as gallery attendants, welcoming visitors, and assisting during community-centered events such as Art Day at Artista Vista and Vista Lights.
If you enjoy engaging with people, supporting the arts, and contributing to a dynamic creative space, we invite you to get involved.
Contact:
Maya Smith, Operations Manager
[email protected]
Garden & Outdoor Volunteers
For those who love working with their hands and spending time outdoors, Stormwater Studios also welcomes volunteers to assist with our native plant and pollinator garden. Participants collaborate with garden designer Karen Murphy Rhu to help care for the space through planting, watering, and seasonal maintenance, while gaining insight into native species and pollinator habitats.
Contact:
Karen Murphy Rhu
[email protected]
Whether your interests lie in the gallery or the garden, volunteering at Stormwater Studios offers a meaningful way to connect with the community, support creativity, and contribute to a shared cultural space. We would be delighted to have you join us.
Host Your Event at Stormwater Studios
Looking for a venue that’s unique and full of creative energy? Stormwater Studios, in the heart of Columbia’s Congaree Vista District, offers a flexible, art-filled space for your next event.
Inside, the gallery features adjustable lighting, movable walls, and a handcrafted kitchen—perfect for receptions, meetings, or performances. Outside, a courtyard and garden provide a welcoming setting for mingling, programs, or outdoor celebrations.
Whether you’re planning a wedding, fundraiser, or community gathering, Stormwater Studios adapts to bring your vision to life. Surrounded by working artists and creative neighbors, your event becomes part of a vibrant, artistic community.
Schedule a tour or learn more:
Maya Smith | [email protected]
Make your next event unforgettable at Stormwater Studios.
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