January Events 2026

Now and Then: Works by Stormwater Studios Resident Artists

Stormwater Studios is pleased to present the first gallery exhibition of 2026, Now and Then, featuring work by our ten resident artists. This exhibition brings together artworks created at different points in each artist’s practice, offering insight into both past influences and present directions. Spanning a diverse range of media, Now and Then highlights the evolution, continuity, and experimentation that define our resident artists’ creative journeys.

The exhibition will be on view through Sunday, January 25. Gallery hours are Wednesday through Sunday, from 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.

Stormwater Studios is located at 413 Pendleton Street, Columbia, SC 29201.

Draw, Paint, and Connect with the About Face Group at Stormwater Studios – Monday, January 19!

Mark your calendar for an evening of artistic exploration with the About Face Drawing Group on Monday, January 19, from 6:30 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. at Stormwater Studios.

This dynamic session will feature two live models, one for figure drawing and one for portrait work, providing a unique opportunity to refine your skills in a welcoming and creative atmosphere. Whether you’re a seasoned artist or picking up a pencil for the first time, this session is open to all experience levels.

Bring your favorite materials—sketchpad, paints, brushes, or even your easel—and get ready to dive into a night of creativity and community. Admission is just $15, and first-timers attend free!

Want to stay in the loop? Reach out to Jordan Johnson at [email protected] or follow the group on Instagram: @about_face_drawinggroup.

Join this group for an inspiring night of drawing, painting, and artistic connection.

“Seam Ripper” – An Abstract Art Exhibition Inspired by the Threads of Time

Step into a vibrant reimagining of American heritage with “Seam Ripper,” an abstract art exhibition that stitches together memory, history, and renewal. Inspired by the bold geometry and soulful storytelling of old Americana quilts, this show transforms tradition into modern mixed-media masterpieces.

Each piece draws from the colors, textures, and spirit of quilts that once graced family homes — from a beloved heirloom passed down by the artist’s grandmother to the iconic creations of The Quilts of Gee’s Bend, whose work radiates the strength and artistry of a small Alabama community of remarkable women.

In Seam Ripper, every artwork tells a new story from the scraps of the old. Reused fabrics, recycled frames, and found papers come together to form evocative collages that celebrate creativity, resilience, and reinvention. Experience how the past is lovingly “unstitched” and reimagined into something entirely new.

The Exhibition Dates: January 28 – February 1, 2026

Exhibition Dates: Wednesday, January 28, 2026, to Sunday, February 1, 2026, and Wednesday, February 4, 2026, to Sunday, February 8, 2026

Gallery Hours: Wednesday – Sunday, 11:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.

Artist Reception: Thursday, January 29, 5:30 – 8:00 p.m.

About the Artist: Amy Spencer

With a background in interior design and a lifelong curiosity for creativity, Amy discovered her true passion for painting thanks to a loving nudge from her daughter. After years of saying “one day,” her adult daughter transformed her old bedroom into a fully stocked art studio for Mother’s Day.

Picking up a paintbrush for the first time was both exciting and humbling. Amy quickly learned that creating visually compelling work was more challenging than imagined, but she persevered — taking online classes, experimenting with techniques, and making painting a daily practice. What began as a personal experiment grew into a passion and a lifelong creative journey.

Today, each piece Amy creates is a journey of exploration — of color, composition, and self-discovery. The fact that her work brings joy to others continues to inspire her. She is honored every time a piece of her art connects with someone, sharing a story stitched from the threads of time.

Lantern-Making Workshop with Flavia Lovatelli

Join artist Flavia Lovatelli for a one-of-a-kind creative afternoon at Stormwater Studios! On Saturday, January 31, from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m., Flavia will lead a free lantern-making workshop—perfect for artists and novices alike.

In this fun and inspiring three-hour session, you’ll craft a unique wired-frame papier-mâché lantern, with Flavia guiding you step by step to make the process easy and enjoyable. All supplies are provided—just bring your creativity!

Space is limited, so be sure to sign up here:
https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSebmR_fVnFZYhBX720rsLzeCPbBp3jan6DduWAFxf4BisspfQ/viewform

Take your masterpiece to the next level by showcasing it in the magical Light and Lantern Parade. This enchanting parade is part of the 33rd Annual Artista Vista celebration, running April 17–19, 2025.

For more details about Artista Vista, visit:
https://www.vistacolumbia.com/special-events/artista-vista

Help us spread the word—invite your friends, and let’s create something extraordinary together!

Stormwater Studios is located at 413 Pendleton Street, Columbia, SC 29201, in the heart of Columbia’s Congaree Vista District, surrounded by artisan businesses such as One Eared Cow Glass and Lewis + Clark Studios.