Stormwater Studio Resident Artists

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A New Chapter for Sharon Collings Licata

After decades of creativity and leadership, Sharon Collings Licata has bid farewell to Studio #1 at Stormwater Studios. Her journey began in 2001 with Vista Studios, where she later served as president, helping shape a vibrant and supportive artist community.

Sharon is now focusing on her home studio at Lake Wateree, where she plans to create a sculpture garden for her large stone pieces. She will continue making art and exhibiting, with a show planned for spring 2025 with Jasper.

Sharon deeply values the friendships and support she’s found in the Stormwater community and invites everyone to stay connected. You can reach her at [email protected] (with “Art” in the subject line) or on Facebook.

Let’s celebrate Sharon’s contributions and wish her well in this exciting new chapter!

Congratulations to Gerard Erley: Sights Unseen and Exciting New Achievements

Gerard Erley has been accepted into the 2025 ArtFields Competition, which will take place from April 25 to May 3 in Lake City, SC. This prestigious event showcases artists in the Southeast, and Gerard’s work will be a highlight. This marks his tenth time exhibiting at ArtFields.

In addition, Gerard has received his 12th grant from the South Carolina Arts Commission. This support will enable him to further explore the visual variety of the Lowcountry and the mountains of North and South Carolina, capturing their remarkable terrain through his evocative paintings. Many thanks to the SCAC and the National Endowment for the Arts for making this project possible!

Sights Unseen, Gerard Erley’s latest exhibition, is currently on view at the Gallery at the Koger Center for the Arts in Columbia, SC. Known for his ability to create atmospheric landscapes from intuition rather than reference, Gerard’s paintings glow with light and subtle color, inviting viewers into scenes that are both familiar and dreamlike.

The exhibition runs through March 9, 2025. Don’t miss the chance to experience these luminous landscapes in person!

Don’t Miss Michel McNinch’s Must-See Exhibition at Motor Supply Co.

We’re thrilled to share that Stormwater Studios Resident Artist Michel McNinch has a captivating exhibition on display at The Jasper Galleries inside Motor Supply Co. Bistro through Tuesday, December 31. Known for her realistic yet interpretive landscapes, Michel’s work reflects her deep love for the natural world, creating pieces that resonate powerfully with viewers.

This exhibition showcases an impressive range of subjects, from serene nature scenes and wildlife to thoughtful portraits and intricate mandalas. Each piece beautifully weaves together Michel’s personal experiences and unique artistic perspective, offering a journey through her creative vision. Don’t miss this opportunity to see her work up close at Motor Supply Co., 920 Gervais St., Columbia, SC.

Meet Reece Bell: SVAD Artist in Residence at Stormwater Studios

Reece Bell, originally from Greenville, SC, is a senior at the University of South Carolina, double majoring in Media Arts and Film and Media Studies, with plans to graduate in Spring 2025. As one of the resident student artists in the SVAD Residency Program, Reece is exploring creativity and collaboration through experimental film.

Her work incorporates found footage, 16mm film, and original material to convey powerful concepts through moving images. This residency has been a therapeutic and inspiring journey, allowing her to connect with artists across mediums, gain new perspectives, and build lasting friendships.

After graduation, Reece plans to pursue a career in filmmaking. While she’s still exploring what that path will look like, she is eager to gain experience in diverse production environments, expand her knowledge, and uncover new possibilities within the field to continually refine her craft.

Follow Reece’s creative journey on Instagram at @reecebellfilm and @reecebelllll.

Be sure to check out the SVAD exhibition in March to experience Reece’s innovative work!

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