Gibbes Museum of Art Celebrates 15th Anniversary of the 1858 Prize for Contemporary Southern Art

15 Years and Still Going Strong: Celebrating the 1858 Prize at the Gibbes Museum of Art!

Hey there, Charleston! If you’re a fan of art and creativity, you’re in for a real treat. The Gibbes Museum of Art is throwing a big party to celebrate the 15th anniversary of its 1858 Prize for Contemporary Southern Art. This exhibition is not just any ordinary displaying of art; it’s a journey through 15 years of stunning artwork and the success stories of talented artists from our Southern region. Grab your friends and family and plan a visit before the exhibition wraps up on January 12, 2025.

A Legacy of Support for Southern Artists

The museum’s president and CEO, Angela Mack, expresses the heart of the Gibbes’ mission well: “Recognizing and supporting artists from our region is at the heart of the Gibbes’ mission.” Over the last decade and a half, the prize has become a prestigious accolade in the South, highlighting the skills and creativity of artists from states like Alabama, Florida, North Carolina, and more.

Think of the 1858 Prize as a bridge connecting artists to art lovers and collectors alike. Since it first hit the scene as the Factor Prize for Southern Art back in 2008, the award has evolved and grown, nurturing a vibrant community of creators who are now recognized both nationally and internationally.

What’s in the Exhibition?

The retrospective exhibition, themed “Celebrating the 1858 Prize for Contemporary Southern Art,” dives deep into the colorful world of Southern art. Just like a big family reunion, this exhibition brings together past winners and highlights their impressive journeys in the art world. You’ll find captivating stories of innovation and hard work, which reflect what can happen when institutions like the Gibbes take an active role in supporting artists.

Among the past winners, you’ll meet artists like Stephen Marc, whose thought-provoking photography captures the essence of America, and Sonya Clark, who engages with social justice themes through her textile works. Then there’s Bo Bartlett, who opened the Bo Bartlett Center to foster community art, and of course, Sherrill Roland, the 2023 prize winner whose multimedia art powerfully reflects his own life experiences.

Spotlight on the 2023 Winner: Sherrill Roland

Let’s chat a bit about Sherrill Roland. His work is currently gracing the Gibbes walls, thanks to the prestige that comes with winning the 1858 Prize. His art tells a poignant story about resilience, as he reflects on his time in prison for a wrongful conviction. Visitors can expect to see an array of installations, sculpture, and performance, all coming together to narrate a profound journey of liberation.

Looking Forward: Where Do We Go from Here?

Exciting news doesn’t stop here! The Gibbes is already gearing up for this year’s award, making way for the 2024 finalists. Keeping an eye on these rising stars is a great way to discover the next wave of talent shaking up the Southern art scene. Mark your calendars for the November 13 panel discussion about the prize and its remarkable history. It promises to be insightful and inspiring!

Join the Celebration!

The 1858 Prize isn’t just about awards; it’s about community and the future of Southern art. With a mission supported by the museum’s young patrons group, Society 1858, the initiative is a testament to the dedication of those who believe in nurturing creativity. “This exhibition recognizes their work, too, and should give us all a lot of hope for the future of Southern art,” Mack notes.

Don’t miss out on this spectacular exhibition! Head over to the Gibbes Museum of Art before January 12, 2025, to witness the rich tapestry of Southern talent. It’s not just an art show; it’s a celebration of our culture and community. Bring your family, bring your friends, and immerse yourself in the artistic vibrancy that defines our Southern heritage!