Get Involved & Showcase Your Creativity at Stormwater Studios

Call for Exhibitions: 2026 & 2027 Seasons

Stormwater Studios is now accepting proposals for the 2026 and 2027 gallery seasons. We invite artists to submit concepts for solo or group exhibitions that showcase a cohesive vision, strong conceptual foundation, and inventive use of space. Our adaptable gallery supports a wide range of approaches—from traditional to experimental, minimal to immersive—and encourages proposals that consider not just the work itself, but the visitor experience, spatial dynamics, and opportunities for engagement.

Located in Columbia’s vibrant Vista district, Stormwater Studios offers a flexible, art-filled environment with modular design, adjustable lighting, and both indoor and outdoor spaces for receptions, artist talks, and interactive programming. Exhibiting here connects artists with a diverse audience of visitors, collectors, and fellow creatives, fostering dialogue and meaningful encounters with contemporary art. Proposals for both seasons are currently under review, and early submissions are encouraged.

Submit your exhibition proposal:
www.stormwaterstudios.org/exhibition

Apply Now – Calls for Entries: Building Bridges & Common Grounds

Stormwater Studios is excited to announce two Calls for Entry connecting artists and local university faculty with galleries and nonprofit organizations, celebrating creativity, research, and community engagement.

Building Bridges Through Art 2026 – Where Creativity Meets Community
In partnership with the Women’s Rights & Empowerment Network (WREN), South Carolina artists are invited to submit work exploring social equity, women’s and girls’ experiences, advocacy, and community care.

• Exhibition Dates: June 16–28, 2026
• Opening Reception: June 18, 6:00–8:00 p.m.
• Who Should Apply: Artists of all media and career stages aligned with social justice themes
• Submission Deadline: April 1, 2026 | Notifications: April 12, 2026
• How to Submit: Upload a single PDF via the Stormwater Studios Exhibit With Us page, including name/contact info, 3–6 images, titles, and optional bio, statement, CV, website, or social media

Common Grounds: Faculty & Staff Research and Creative Practice
This collaborative, three-phase exhibition highlights research-driven and creative work by faculty and staff across local institutions: University of South Carolina, Benedict College, Columbia College, Columbia International University, and Midlands Technical College.

• Eligibility: Part-time or full-time faculty/staff at participating institutions
• Submission Window: Feb 17 – April 10, 2026 | Notifications: By May 15, 2026
• Exhibition Schedule:
  • McMaster Gallery: July 16 – Aug 25, 2026
  • Goodall Gallery: Jan 14 – Feb 18, 2027
  • Stormwater Studios: Summer 2027 (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

Volunteer at Stormwater Studios!

Be part of the energy that makes Stormwater Studios come alive! We’re looking for Gallery & Event Volunteers to help with exhibitions, special programs, and community events like Art Day at Artista Vista and Vista Lights. Roles include welcoming visitors, assisting during events, and supporting our vibrant gallery spaces.

Love the outdoors? Join as a Garden & Outdoor Volunteer! Work with garden designer Karen Murphy Rhu to care for our native plant and pollinator garden—planting, watering, and maintaining while learning about native species and pollinator habitats.

Volunteering at Stormwater Studios is a fun way to connect with the community, support creativity, and make a difference. We’d love to have you!

Contact:

Gallery & Events: Maya Smith | [email protected]

Garden & Outdoor: Karen Murphy Rhu | [email protected]

Host Your Event at Stormwater Studios

Searching for a unique, inspiring space full of creative energy? Right in the heart of Columbia’s Congaree Vista District, Stormwater Studios offers an art-filled, flexible venue for your next gathering.

Inside, the gallery features adjustable lighting, movable walls, and a handcrafted kitchen—perfect for receptions, meetings, or performances. Outside, a charming courtyard and garden provide a welcoming backdrop for mingling, programs, or outdoor celebrations.

From weddings to fundraisers to community events, Stormwater Studios adapts to make your vision a reality. Surrounded by working artists and a vibrant creative community, your event becomes part of something unforgettable.

Schedule a tour or learn more:

Maya Smith | [email protected]

Bring your next event to life at Stormwater Studios!