November 2025

Stormwater Resident Artists’ Semi-Annual Exhibition

Join us for the Stormwater Resident Artists’ Semi-Annual Exhibition, one of the most anticipated shows of the year at Stormwater Gallery—our semiannual Vista Lights holiday exhibition featuring the extraordinary work of our resident artists.

The exhibition runs from Wednesday, November 12, to Sunday, November 30, with gallery hours Wednesday through Sunday, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.

The Opening Reception is Thursday, November 20, 6 p.m. to 9 p.m., as part of the 40th Anniversary of Vista Lights! This festive evening celebrates the creativity of our resident artists, showcasing works across a variety of mediums. Guests will have the chance to meet and chat with the artists, explore their studios, and experience their creative process firsthand—discovering the bold, imaginative visions that make Stormwater Studios a heartbeat of Columbia’s art scene.

New this year, we will have Lenayah Rayford, our 2025–2026 Columbia College Resident Artist, and visit her studio to learn more about her work and upcoming projects.

Stormwater Studios is located at 413 Pendleton Street, Columbia, SC 29201, in the heart of the Congaree Vista District—near One Eared Cow Glass and Lewis + Clark Studios.

Draw, Paint, and Connect with the About Face Group at Stormwater Studios – Monday, November 17!

Mark your calendar for an evening of artistic exploration with the About Face Drawing Group on Monday, November 17, 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.

Celebrate the Holiday Season at Stormwater Studios: Join Us for 40 Fabulous Years of Vista Lights!

Ring in the holiday season and honor 40 sparkling years of Vista Lights in Columbia, SC, with Stormwater Studios on Thursday, November 20, 2025, from 6 to 9 p.m.! Join us for an unforgettable evening where art, community, and holiday magic come alive. This family-friendly celebration will dazzle with original artwork, twinkling lights, a majestic Christmas tree, lively performances, and the chance to meet local artists while discovering one-of-a-kind holiday treasures.

This special evening also marks the opening reception of the Stormwater Resident Artists’ Semi-Annual Exhibition, showcasing works across a variety of mediums by our resident artists. The exhibition will be on display from November 12 through November 30. Guests will have the chance to wander through artists’ studios, experience their creative process up close, and uncover the bold, imaginative visions that make Stormwater Studios a heartbeat of Columbia’s art scene. Whether you’re an avid collector or simply love discovering new art, there’s something here to spark your imagination.

New This Year: Meet Lenayah Rayford, our 2025–2026 Columbia College Resident Artist, and visit her studio to learn more about her work and upcoming projects.

Returning Favorites:

• The Namu Drum Company, whose energetic rhythms will enliven the evening.
  
• Draw Together Strangers, an interactive experience by Kathryn Van Aernum, where participants draw one another simultaneously—a unique way to connect through art.
  
• The Sweet Adelines, whose festive harmonies will fill the air with holiday spirit.
  
• The USC School of Visual Art and Design Artists in Residence will open their studio for an exclusive opportunity to meet and connect with emerging artists.

Our Creative Neighbors:

• One Eared Cow Glass will open its doors for this special event! Enjoy live glassblowing demonstrations and light refreshments as you explore their gallery and experience the mesmerizing artistry of molten glass. With unique pieces perfect for the holiday season, it’s the ideal time to shop, be inspired, and find one-of-a-kind gifts!
• Lewis + Clark Studios will welcome visitors to view their latest creations, including Tiny Towers, Vessel Forms, custom-designed lamps, sculptures, and their signature Chargebots.
  Enjoy pop-up artists, fire pits, music, snacks, and plenty of holiday cheer throughout the evening!

Light snacks and beverages will be provided as guests explore the art, culture, and creativity on display.

Free parking is available. Begin your Vista Lights celebration at Stormwater Studios, meet your talented neighbors, and immerse yourself in the artistic heart of the Congaree Vista District.

Stormwater Studios
413 Pendleton Street, Columbia, SC 29201
In the heart of the Congaree Vista District — near One Eared Cow Glass and Lewis + Clark Studios

See How It’s Done! Cyanotype Prints with Resident Artist Pat Gilmartin

Stormwater Studios is thrilled to invite you to a fascinating, hands-on art experience with Resident Artist Pat Gilmartin! Join us Saturday, November 22, from 1:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m. at Stormwater Gallery for a free cyanotype print demonstration.

Discover the magic of cyanotype—a stunning printmaking technique that uses sunlight to create striking blue-and-white images on paper or fabric. Pat will show how placing objects on a UV-sensitive surface transforms sunlight into rich, radiant prints that are as beautiful as they are unique.

Experience the process from start to finish, get inspired by this one-of-a-kind art form, and take home a new appreciation for the power of light and creativity. Free admission & free parking—don’t miss this illuminating event!

Stormwater Studios Closed 

Stormwater Studios will be closed from Thursday, November 27, and will reopen on Friday, November 28. Please stop by to see the Stormwater Resident Artists’ Semi-Annual Exhibition.