Under the Sea

Dive Into Art: “Under the Sea” Exhibition Showcases Local Craft Artisans

An enchanting journey beneath the waves awaits visitors at the upcoming "Under the Sea” exhibit, an eye catching experience highlighting the extraordinary work of local craft artisans. The exhibit opens July 1st at Charleston Crafts Gallery, inviting the community to explore the wonder and mystery of ocean life through the lens of handcrafted artistry.

From delicately quilled coral reefs by Fairoozan Abdullah, to vibrant textile seascapes by Lynne Gettelfinger, and sculptures of sea dwellers by Randy Aschenbrenner and Regina Semko, “Under the Sea” offers a stunning celebration of marine inspiration and creative craftsmanship. Each piece reflects the unique voice of local artists, capturing the intricate beauty of underwater ecosystems while showcasing diverse mediums such as woodwork, fiber art, paper sculpture, and more.

“We wanted to create a space where imagination and environmental consciousness could merge,” says Nancy Warren, Gallery Chair. “The sea holds endless inspiration, and our artisans have truly brought that magic to life with their hands.”

Visitors will also have the opportunity to meet the artists during the opening reception on July 11, 2025, 5-8pm, and purchase one-of-a-kind pieces that support the local community.

The Great Outdoors

Opening Reception June 6th, 5-8pm

There are a variety of ways that we connect with nature. Marty Biernbaum, Valerie Lamott, and Susan Livingston each bring the viewer an artistic way to coexist with nature in ceramic, jewelry and mixed media. In her latest body of work, Marty Biernbaum utilizes a variety of hand-built ceramic forms as a canvas for her textural glaze scapes. Valerie Lamott masterfully captures the great outdoors in jewelry with intricate silver and gemstone work. A passion for being outdoors has informed Susan Livingston’s approach to her fiber and mixed media art practice. Each vision is its own microcosm in which she uses naturally hand dyed fabrics onto which she slow stitches found objects, patterns and lines to create abstract landscapes.  

The Great Outdoors will be on display at Charleston Crafts Gallery from June 6 - 30. The opening reception will be June 6th from 5-8pm in conjunction with the Charleston Gallery Association’s First Friday ArtWalk. 

Marty Biernbaum

Valerie Lamott

Susan Livingston

9 Romantic Things to Do in Charleston, SC

Check out this Redfin article we were featured in:

No matter if you’re a longtime local or in the market to buy a home in Charleston, SC, have your eyes on an apartment in the city, or interested in a rental house in the area, here are some of the most enchanting romantic things to do in Charleston for those who are looking to call it home.

9 Romantic Things to Do in Charleston, SC: The Perfect Stay. | Redfin

Sweet Nothings: Romance at the Gallery

Open House February 7th, 5-8pm

The month of February brings time to appreciate and adore our loved ones. The iconic heart and dominance of red and pink resonates with crafts people this time of year. Whether you are reminding someone how special they are, or lighting a new spark, the gallery artists feed on emotion and make exquisitely crafted works of art that will be cherished for years to come. Inspired by red, Selma Andrews incorporates this bold color into her handmade polymer beads creating unique pieces to wear!  Aimee Fitzgerald uses the heart as a symbol of love in her mosaic works. Hand Knit wearables by Nancy Warren, are a sure way to melt hearts. 

New x 3: New Artists, New Work, New Year

Open House, Friday January 3, 2025, 5-8pm in conjunction with the Charleston Gallery Association Art Walk evening celebrations.

January Marks the New Year; in the New Year, comes the opportunity for new beginnings.  This month, Charleston Crafts Gallery features the works of our newest members, some who joined us in the fall, and others who just joined this month!    Come in and enjoy the newest inspired collection by the artisans at Charleston Crafts Gallery, 140 East Bay, Suite D, in downtown Charleston. Work by six of our newest artist members featuring polymer clay artscapes, ceramics, jewelry, mosaics, paper cutting art, and woodworking.  Come and meet the gallery’s artists who are available to meet on the evening of the first Friday art walk, January 3rd, from 5 to 8 PM. Stop by and welcome the New Year! 

Jennifer York, was named Lowcountry artist of the year in 2024, was a new member of the Cooperative Gallery, beginning in fall of 2024.  This month, the gallery will be featuring her paper cutting artworks, which feature unique architectural details, as well as her original drawings on paper cuttings, imbedded in installation pieces.

Ruth Ballou is a ceramicist who creates unique sculptural constructions out of ceramics with stunning subtle glazes that delight the eye. She learned this process while studying in France, and now brings this process to the Lowcountry. 

Jenn Brower is a jeweler who makes stunning pieces of art fashioned completely from tiny rings of silver or gold.  Modeled upon chain maille, an ancient form of hand crafted armor, her work had elevated the craft into art jewelry in the form of unique earrings, necklaces and bracelets.

Thia Beniash creates unique images in polymer clay, which are framed and ready for display in the home. She draws on her love of the Lowcountry for her inspiration in her images. 

Randy Aschenbrenner creates fine examples of the woodworker’s craft in his work.  He is new to the Gallery, joining less than one month ago.  Come see his work and say hello!   

Aimee Fitzgerald is a Mosaic Artist.  She creates stunning images from tiny pieces of hand painted, broken tiles, refashioned into art.   Her images are evocative of the ocean, sea birds and Lowcountry life.  

While these members are in the spotlight, the work of all the Gallery’s members are also on display and available for purchase, including jewelry, wood puzzles, encaustic paintings, mixed media collages, fiber art, apparel and accessories, as well as functional and decorative objects in wood, ceramic and glass.

Light and Life: A celebration of the Holiday Season

December is holiday time! The holiday season is a celebration of family and friends. ‘Tis also the season for gifts, and Charleston Crafts Gallery features one of a kind handmade local art for all your gift giving needs.   Come in and enjoy the December inspired collection by the artisans at Charleston Crafts Gallery, 140 East Bay, Suite D, in downtown Charleston. Work by seven of our artist members featuring cozy wearables, purses, fine art, and jewelry in fine crafts media will be in the spotlight this month. Come and meet the gallery’s artists who are available to meet on the evening of the first Friday art walk, December 6, from 5 to 8 PM. Stop by and welcome the Season! 

Marty Biernbaum is a multi-talented artist who works in encaustics for her paintings.  She creates stunning ocean scenes using the encaustic medium to emphasize the tumbling waves and ocean froth.  

Cordelia Story works in fused glass, crafting artistic and functional items to delight the senses.  She uses several different techniques to create a variety of types of glass effects in her work. 

Nancy Warren is fiber artist and handweaver who creates one-of-a-kind wearables and scarves. She dyes some of her yarns prior to the weaving process, resulting in unique color blending effects.  For this month, she has created some scarves perfect for gift giving.

Ruth Bellou is a ceramicist who creates unique sculptural constructions out of ceramic with stunning subtle glazes that delight the eye. She learned this process while studying in France, and now brings her unique pieces to the Lowcountry. 

Gini Steele is a knitter who creates whimsical and original designed knit pieces including special buttons, or added felted elements.  Gini is an intuitive knitter who uses many stitches in her designs.  She has designed a new cowl for this month.  

Lynne Gettelfinger is an art quilter who makes large quilted scenes in her wall-hangings.  For this month’s gift giving collection, her purses are featured.  These mini-quilts are hand-held works of art, some with changeable accessories to allow the buyer to change the mood. 

Tammy Rudd makes Lampwork Beads.  Using a hot torch process, she individually handcrafts her stunning focal beads.  Each bead is in-of-a-kind, and absolutely gorgeous. 

The Tiny Show

Announcing “The Tiny Show” - September at the Charleston Crafts Gallery

Open House, Friday September 6, 2024, 5-8pm, in conjunction with the Charleston Gallery Association Art Walk evening celebrations.

September brings back to school and a return to cooler days.  Come in and enjoy the fall inspired collection of the artisans in the month of September at Charleston Crafts Gallery, 140 East Bay, Suite D, in downtown Charleston. Miniature works in a variety of medium are taking center stage at the gallery.  Many of the gallery’s artists will be available to meet on the evening of the first Friday art walk. September 6, from 5 to 8 PM. Stop by and welcome the end of summer! 

Marty Biernbaum created intricate ceramic ornaments for this tiny show.  Come see her depiction of “Rainbow Row”.  

Kasey Briggs’ tiny jewelry crafted of hundreds of even smaller seed beads are luminous works of art to wear.

Lynne Gettelfinger layers intricate patterns of fabric and other fibers creating delightful tiny quilts that touch on fond summer memories.

Susan Livingston stitches intricate tiny one-of a kind fabric collages that invoke fall evenings under the stars.

Carrie Helmkamp is a ceramic artist who makes fanciful Gnomes and critters she calls “Kruffles”.  They come in several sizes, from tiny to large.  This who features her selection of tiny creatures.  

Anne John is a ceramic artist whose tiny work celebrates changing fall days, with tiny gourds, and pumpkins, as well as intricate plates.

Regina Semko creates decorative origami using a wide range of papers. For this show, she has created tiny flower arrangements that never fade.

Jennifer York, 2024 Lowcountry Artist of the Year, and a new member of our gallery, creates stunning paper cuts which invoke buildings, windows, and travels to exotic locales.  

While these members are in the spotlight, the work of all the Gallery’s members are also on display and available for purchase, including jewelry, wood puzzles, encaustic paintings, mixed media collages, fiber art, apparel and accessories, as well as functional and decorative objects in wood, ceramic and glass.

Dog Daze of Summer!

Opening Reception: Friday, August 2nd, 5-8 pm  

Exhibition Duration: August 1-31

140 East Bay Street. Charleston, SC 29401

Charleston Crafts Gallery is delighted to announce “The Dog Daze of Summer” a group show featuring four talented artists. The opening reception will be held on Friday, August 2nd, from 5-8 pm, and the exhibition will run throughout the month of August.

Stay cool on the hottest of days this summer with a hand dyed vest by fiber artist LuAnn Rosenzweig and evoke the serenity of a beach stroll. Puzzle enthusiasts will enjoy Daniel Diehl’s charming wooden cat and dog sets, which can be assembled in countless configurations, offering a delightful blend of art and functionality. Relax and recharge like your four legged friends with origami by Regina Semko. Summer designs in handmade silver by Valerie Lamott will bring a cool vibe to your late summer look. 

In addition to the featured artists, the work of all Charleston Crafts Gallery members will be on display and available for purchase. Our collection includes jewelry, wooden wall decor, encaustic paintings, mixed media collages, fiber art, apparel and accessories, as well as functional and decorative objects crafted from wood, ceramic, and glass.

Hand dyed vest by LuAnn Rosenzweig

Puppies puzzle by Dan Diehl

Origami dogs by Regina Semko

Lighthouse earrings by Valerie Lamott

Garden Party

Charleston Crafts Gallery is hosting “Garden Party!” a group show featuring 10 of the gallery’s artists.

What should guests wear?  LuAnn Rosenzweig and Gini Steele have you covered. LuAnn’s one-of-a-kind jackets and vests are festive and perfect for a special event. Her Poppy Jacket is especially colorful, or a small Garden party purse might be appropriate.  Gini creates shawls and scarves, and for this event, she has some special hand knit scarves with hand felted flower adornment.  Just the thing. 

Now, to set the table, Nancy Warren and Susan Livingston have hand crafted unique table linens for the event.  Nancy’s handwoven placemats and napkins set a lovely table for an outdoor feast, while Susan’s hand-dyed vintage linens are stunning. Napkin rings crafted from leather by Courtney Powers, or origami paper napkin rings by Regina Semko complete the tablescape.

Need mood lighting?  Stacy Green has created garden themed lights with fused glass to set the stage.

What can be used to serve the food for the picnic?  Anne John’s Hand-crafted ceramic bowls are ready.

Complete the surroundings with a lovely floral wall quilt created by Lynne Gettelfinger.

Is the garden party taking place in the tropics?  It sure looks like it!  Yard birds have joined the garden party and are ready to play. These chickens are sure to bring a smile with their bright colors and humorous expressions. Each one is hand built by Marty Biernbaum from stoneware clay, suitable for indoor or outdoor use to brighten up your garden.

The opening will be Friday July 5th from 5-8 pm, and the group show will run for the month of July. 

Luann Rosenzweig jacket

Gini Steele scarf

Nancy Warren placemats

Susan Livingston napkins

Courtney Powers napkin rings

Regina Semko napkin rings

Stacy Green lights

Anne John

Lynne Gettelfinger quilt

Marty Biernbaum ceramics

Gone Fishin'

Open House, Friday June 7th, 2024, 5-8pm,

in conjunction with the Charleston Gallery Association Art Walk evening celebrations.

Gone Fishin’ - June at the COOP

June brings the prominence of summer time vibes, days of endless play, and a feeling of mischief. Outdoor activities such as fishing, hiking, camping and travel are among the various ways to relax and endure the long days.

Find and enjoy the Summer inspired collection of various crafters in the month of June at Charleston Crafts Gallery, downtown Charleston. Many of the gallery’s artists will be available to meet on the evening of the first Friday art walk. June 7 from 5 to 8 PM. Stop by and welcome the summer!

Selma Andrews’ whimsical polymer clay adornments are a must for summer wear. New fish broaches will delight.

Dan Diehl crafts engaging puzzles and maps - so useful to track summer adventuring.

Lynne Gettelfinger layers intricate patterns of fiber creating delightful quilts that touch on fond summer memories.

Valerie Lamott draws on her love of hiking in her exquisitely composed, one-of-a-kind reflections in silver and gemstone jewelry.

Courtney Powers’ reclaimed leather accessories have an added twist this month, one fish, two fish…

Dedie Story interweaves textures and layers of glass creating functional, summery compositions.

Regina Semko creates decorative origami using a wide range of papers. Look for new sailboats and shrimp in the gallery.

While these members are in the spotlight, the work of all the Gallery’s members are also on display and available for purchase, including jewelry, wood puzzles, encaustic paintings, mixed media collages, fiber art, apparel and accessories, as well as functional and decorative objects in wood, ceramic and glass.

Masquerade

Announcing “Masquerade”, presented by the artists of Charleston Crafts Gallery

Open House, Friday May 3, 2024, 5-8pm, in conjunction with the Charleston Gallery Association Art Walk evening celebrations.

In honor of Charleston’s own Spoleto Festival, Charleston Crafts Gallery presents “Masquerade” to feature all things theatrical, whimsical, and artistic. While Spoleto Festival celebrates music, theatre, and dance, the arts can also join in the fun. Come see the work of five of the Gallery’s member-artisans, Nancy Warren, Carrie Helmkamp, Tammy Rudd, John Schumacher, and Selma Andrews. These five artists work in a varied range of media, with the emphasis on imagination and creativity. Come and celebrate the festival season this May in Charleston.

Tammy Rudd is a jeweler creates her own torch fired beads, and fashions these glittering beauties into miniature works of hand-made art. Wear your art while you attend festival events.

Nancy Warren, a fiber artist and jewelry-maker, offers handwoven scarves with vibrant hand dyed colorways, as well as exciting jewelry featuring handmade beads using fabric and fiber techniques.

Selma Andrews, a jeweler working in Polymer clay, offers jewelry with vibrant and intricate designs which feature faces and modernist masks for this exhibition.

Carrie Helmkamp is a clay artist who creates whimsical, fabulist creatures, such as her Gnomies and Kruffles, to charm viewers of all ages.

John Schumacher works in stained glass. His colorful creations feature modern images and vibrant shapes as well as birds, flowers and fish. Brighten up your windows or your walls, so your home can join in celebrating Spoleto season.

While these members are in the spotlight, the work of all the Gallery’s members are also on display and available for purchase, including jewelry, wood puzzles, encaustic paintings, mixed media collages, fiber art, apparel and accessories, as well as functional and decorative objects in wood, ceramic and glass.

Jazz it up

Announcing “Jazz it up”, presented by the artists of Charleston Crafts Gallery

Open House, April 5, 2024, 5-8pm, in conjunction with the Charleston gallery Association Art Walk evening celebrations.

Swing into Charleston Crafts Gallery as we honor the Charleston Jazz Festival (April 18-24). Celebrate art inspired by music featuring five artists in our cooperative gallery. The work of Valerie Lamott, Laurie Prophater, Luann Rosenzweig, Susan Livingston and Tanya Craig will be spotlighted this month. Jazz up your style with art to wear, jewelry and home decor. You do not even need to fly yourself to the moon, just tap on down to 140 East Bay St. in downtown Charleston SC.

Valerie Lamott employs traditional metalsmithing techniques to craft jewelry with a variety of themes. For this month’s show, she is featuring a collection of musical offerings.

Laurie Prophater, a jeweler working in Polymer clay, offers jewelry with vibrant and intricate designs to delight the wearer.

LuAnn Rosenzweig creates gorgeous one-of-kind art to wear garments which are sure to jazz up the wardrobe. Often inspired by Asian themes, her jackets and vests are truly bespoke.

Susan Livingston is a fiber artist who creates fiber collages using hand dyed, hand stitched and found objects with elements on her fabrics. This month, she was inspired by the theme of the song “Fly me to the Moon”, her father’s favorite jazz song.

Tanya Craig creates whimsical, and exciting works in Fused glass. She creates glass plates and trays, as well as mobiles for the home. Her vibrant creations will jazz up your home décor!

While these members are in the spotlight, the work of all the Gallery’s members are also on display and available for purchase, including jewelry, wood puzzles, encaustic paintings, mixed media collages, fiber art, apparel and accessories, as well as functional and decorative objects in wood, ceramic and glass.

Charleston’s destination for Fine Craft since 1989, the gallery is located at 140 East Bay Street, in the heart of the French Quarter, on “Gallery Row”. The gallery is open Daily, 10:00-6:00 and staffed by its friendly and knowledgeable member-artisans. Charleston Crafts Cooperative Gallery is a dynamic community of more than two dozen jury-selected artisans, all from South Carolina, making this the city’s only exclusively local craft gallery. For more information: 843.501.7522 or www.charlestoncraftsgallery.com.

"For the birds"

Group show February 1-29, 2024

Open House: Friday, February 2, 2024

Charleston Crafts Gallery is sharing the spirit of this year’s South Eastern Wildlife Exposition by hosting a group show called “For the Birds”. Feathered friends created in a plethora of medium are featured for the month of February. The gallery is hosting an open house Friday, February 2nd from 5 - 8pm. Meet many of the gallery’s artists at the open house, during the monthly Art Walk. 

A variety of talented craftsmen are inspired by birds in the wild. Each artist takes on a unique perspective of different aspects of the lives of birds. Nearly half of the gallery’s 25 members are showing off their understanding and connections to the natural world surrounding them as they are portrayed in jewelry, mixed media, fiber, glass, paper, wood, and ceramics. Outdoor enthusiasts and bird lovers of all ages will enjoy the creativity these artists have poured into this subject.

Staffed by its knowledgeable and friendly member-artisans, Charleston Crafts Gallery is a dynamic cooperative community of more than two dozen jury-selected artisans. All live in South Carolina, making the Gallery the city’s only exclusively fine craft gallery. For information about joining the gallery as an exhibiting member please visit https://charlestoncraftsgallery.com/join-charleston-crafts

Announcing the 45th Annual Piccolo Spoleto Craft Show: May 24 - 26, 2024

This May, Piccolo Spoleto Craft Show will mark its 45th year of participation in the Piccolo Spoleto Festival. Run by Charleston Crafts Gallery with cooperation from the City of Charleston, the Craft Show presents a high quality of original work created by artists in a wide variety of craft media. The three day show will be held in Charleston’s historic Wragg Square under arching live oak trees. This year the show will be held Memorial Day weekend, May 24 - 26. Both emerging and experienced fine craft artists from around the US are invited to apply to participate. For application information please visit https://www.zapplication.org/event-info.php?ID=12130 

The Application Deadline is February 29.

Charleston Crafts Gallery at 140 East Bay Street, Charleston SC is Open Daily 10am-6pm.

For more information: call 843-501-7522, or go to charlestoncraftsgallery.com.

Share the Joy

It’s that festive time of year again, and Charleston Crafts Gallery, the city’s ultimate artful shopping experience, will host an open house during the Friday Art Walk on December 1, 5:00 pm-8:00pm.

As Charleston’s only source for local fine craft, the gallery has treasures to make your holidays special – and your shopping a breeze.  Staffed by our friendly member-artisans, Charleston Crafts Cooperative Gallery is a dynamic community of jury-selected artisans.

Please join us On Friday, December 1st and browse a dazzling collection of fine craft all created by local South Carolinian artists. Beverages and refreshments will be provided in our new larger space, located at 140 East Bay Street. Making your Holiday shopping a one-stop-shop, fine craft items perfect for Holiday gift giving will be on display and available for purchase.

We offer beautiful hand-crafted items in many different mediums including jewelry, wood puzzles, encaustic paints, fiber art, paper quilling, mixed media collage, apparel and accessories, plus functional and decorative objects in wood, ceramic, and glass. Our new location has also afforded us the opportunity to jury-in additional new talented artisans to our growing Fine Crafts Cooperative.

Created with heart and imagination, the gallery’s one-of-a kind artworks are sure to be cherished. Set the scene for a merry and bright holiday with these exceptional artisan-made gifts:

Stocking stuffers: Smaller treasures such as handmade jewelry, ornaments, lotions, candles, ceramic sculptures, glass and ceramic ornaments, origami and many more.

Cozy gifts: Scarves, handmade jackets, gloves and other items to chase the chill, all skillfully hand-knitted and hand-woven by the gallery’s textile artisans.

Gifts for an artful home: Beautifully crafted wood tables and mirrors, bold ceramic sculptures, plus multi-media, mosaic, encaustic, paper quilling artwork and fiber art for the wall.

Lowcountry gifts: Handmade jewelry portraying local scenes, polymer clay “Charleston Lady” jewelry and ornaments, ceramic mugs and works in wood inspired by the Holy City and our picturesque area.

Gifts of unique style: Gorgeous hand-dyed silk scarves, colorful textile jewelry, handmade purses in fabric and up cycled leather, chic jackets, plus stylish ties for the guys.

Shimmering gifts: Exquisite works of art in stained and fused glass that bring color and beauty into any space.

Gifts for an elegant table: Table linens, mugs, and ceramic and wooden serving bowls and platters.

Amusing gifts: Whimsical Kruffles and Gnomies ceramic sculptures, adorable hand-knitted dolls and creatures, challenging wood puzzles and more gifts guaranteed to bring a smile.

A Harvest of Fine Craft

Charleston Crafts Cooperative Gallery Presents, “A Harvest of Fine Craft”: November 3rd, 5-8 pm

Charleston Crafts Gallery is spotlighting three artists producing fine craft in three very different mediums.These highlighted artists will be on display during the entire month of November. While these talented artists will be featured, the work of all Gallery members will also be on display in our new larger space and all art is available for purchase, including jewelry, wood puzzles, encaustic paints, fiber art, mixed media collage, apparel and accessories, plus functional and decorative objects in wood, ceramic, and glass. Our new location has also afforded us the opportunity to jury-in additional new talented artisans to our growing Fine Crafts Cooperative.

Dedie Story is a fused glass artist and has been interested in creating and making things her entire life. She began with sewing which she still does often. As a garment embellisher, she began making glass beads with a torch. Her glass journey blossomed from there. There is always more to learn. Dedie finds glass to be fascinating, exciting, and ever changing and she endeavors to create designs that interweave beautiful colors and textures and sometimes just a little fun.

Susan Livingston has been a mixed-media fiber artist many years. Some days she spends dyeing beautiful fabrics and some days she spends stitching (always by hand) on these fabrics. Other days she spends walking and collecting the found objects that are often inspiration for her mixed-media fiber collages. Susan’s work includes shibori-resist silk scarves in indigo and other natural dyes, vintage napkins she collects and also dyes, textile panels, and framed mixed-media fiber collages.

Courtney Powers crafts useful upcycled leather accessories, is new to South Carolina, and was born and raised in the D.C. area. She started sewing at the age of 22. After her husband retired and the youngest went off to college, together, they ventured south to the Outer Banks in Corolla, NC. While living there, they both started creating; her husband crafted upcycled pallet wood into useable objects and she started sewing again. Courtney had always enjoyed using fabric remnants but ventured into leather while helping her husband find a new handle idea for his wooden trays. Courtney suggested leather for handles and that was the perfect touch for the trays. Since she was not comfortable buying a hide, she discovered she could purchase new leather left behind as remnants from the furniture industry. Realizing she had previously not given much thought to how and where an item was made, she decided to offer a new eco-friendlier option. That’s when her love affair with leather began. Her style is minimalist and highlights the natural beauty of each unique piece of leather and by not using a template, each piece is truly one of a kind. Her process of design is very simple. She plays with different colors of fabric or leather until something works.

Why the name Restoried? Courtney’s designs are centered around reuse; giving a new story to materials that have been discarded. She uses two types of leather; scrap remnants from the furniture making process or reclaimed leather which she has stripped from discarded leather bags or furniture. She strives to use every scrap, transforming those pieces into totes and from the tote's scraps, a wallet or bracelet is made, leaving only the scrap of a leather “string” she uses to tie her tags onto recycled grocery bags she uses for purchases. Courtney hopes her leatherwork will make people feel good knowing it was crafted by hand here in South Carolina with a purpose of reuse in mind. Using the image of a wild horse, in her logo, honors the places they have lived, such as Corolla, NC and Hilton Head Island, SC., where wild horses have roamed. 

Fused glass art by Dedie Story

Fiber Art Collage by Susan Livingston

Leather work by Courtney Powers

At Home with Craft

Charleston Crafts Gallery is spotlighting artists making functional and decorative fine craft in wood, glass, and fiber, perfect for adding expression to your home. Enriching lives with well designed, beautifully crafted, and extraordinary originality, these artists’ offerings are being featured in the front gallery October 1 - 31. The gallery is open 7 days a week from 10am-6pm. 

Robb Helmkamp is a maker who was raised all over the U.S. by a career Navy father and a clay artist mother, growing up surrounded by both arts and crafts & military history and design. By juxtaposing wood and metal, light and dark tones, smooth and rough textures, his furniture and woodwork is a canvas for expression. Robb enjoys creating unique furniture and sculpture which ask questions, tell stories and make statements about our culture and the never-ending social avalanche we all live in.  Robb currently lives in North Charleston, SC where he works on commissions and makes a variety of projects and products in his home studio. He shows his work in galleries and exhibitions throughout the Southeast. 

John Schumacher was born in Covington, KY, and graduated from Northern Kentucky University with a Major in Business and a Minor in Fine Arts. Many of the Civil War era houses in that area included stained glass windows in their architectural design, which he always admired, but could not afford. He decided to build a window himself, and thus began a continuing education, now lasting over 50 years. Moving to Aiken, SC in 1980, John pursued his professional career as a manufacturing manager, and also continued to study the masters of stained glass while refining his skills in lead, zinc and copper foil techniques. His large windows contain hundreds of individual cuts of glass. John's works have earned winning ribbons in regional competitions, encouraging him to continue his efforts.  

After retirement, about 10 years ago, with children and grandchildren living in the Lowcountry, John and his wife Jane have moved once again, to Mount Pleasant. He has converted his garage into a studio and spends many hours creating traditional and contemporary stained-glass pieces. 

Bonnie Younginer is a fiber artist working in wool, silk and cotton. She retired from a 30-year career in Interior Design and now weaves and needle and wet felts the scenery she studies in her beautiful Lowcountry environment. Her weaving methods are plain weave and tapestry style weaving using colorful wool yarns. She draws her own patterns for the weavings referred to as “cartoons” in the weaving world. 

Her felting uses dyed fleece, either Merino or New Zealand Corriedale wool that has been carded and pulled into long strips of wool fiber. Handmade embellishments are added for texture and interest. Wet felting calls for the wool roving to be pulled apart and laid out in a way to depict the desired pattern she has designed. The loose fibers are placed on bubble wrap, covered with a nylon mesh and a warm water soap solution is spread over the wool design, the wet fiber is rolled up onto a tube and rolled back and forth until the fibers entangle and form a piece of felt “cloth.” Before drying, the “cloth” is hand manipulated into the desired form. After it is dry it is embellished and framed. Producing needle felted art she uses thin barbed needles. Following the pattern, she slowly pushes the wool yarns (and sometimes silk) with barbed needles into a pre-felt cloth, bonding the yarn to the felt pre-felt. It is then framed. 

While these talented artists will be featured, the work of all Gallery members will also be on display at 140 East Bay Street and all art is available for purchase, including jewelry, wood puzzles, encaustic paints, fiber art, mixed media collage, apparel and accessories, plus functional and decorative objects in wood, ceramic, and glass. Our new location has also afforded us the opportunity to jury-in additional new talented artisans to our growing Fine Crafts Cooperative. 

Jewelry Armoire by Robb Helmkamp

Fiber Art by Bonnie Younginer

Stained Glass art by John Schumacher

It's HOT in town!

Join us for ArtWalk on Friday, September 1st, 5 - 8pm

140 East Bay Street

Charleston Crafts Gallery is highlighting artists whose craft is made with extreme heat throughout the month of September. The Gallery will host an Open House in conjunction with ArtWalk in Charleston, on Friday, September 1st from 5-8 pm. Stop by and see what’s HOT!

Tanya Church Craig creates fused glass artwork. Fused glass is also referred to as kiln formed or warm glass. Primarily making this medium for 20 years, Tanya makes functional objects and wall hangings. She uses abstract art as inspiration in the way she implements color and layering of color.  Her thrill in the process shows through in her unique artwork. All her pieces are one of a kind and are a labor of layering glass and firing multiple times in a kiln until the layers have melted together.

Anne John creates decorative and functional art pieces; wheel thrown from porcelain and stoneware clay bodies. Anne distinguishes her work with the addition of finely detailed decorative elements, such as realistic hand sculpted birds, organic forming and shaping, and precise placement of glaze applications. Her pieces are fired in a reduction gas kiln, which takes the oxygen out of the air inside the kiln and allows her to achieve vibrant hues in her red and shino glazes.

Tammy Rudd produces intricate flameworked glass beads as the focus of her fabulous jewelry designs. To create these exquisitely detailed works of art, Tammy is seated before a fixed torch flame, using one hand to turn the molten bead on its metal rod in the flame, while expertly plying an array of colored glass rods with the other hand, meticulously forming the colorful and complex designs that make her work so distinctive. When the design is completed, the bead is slowly cooled for hours in a specialized kiln; a process called annealing, which hardens the glass and makes it very durable.

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Charleston Crafts Gallery has always shared the passion and creativity

of juried artists, and we’re excited to continue our mission of

showcasing emerging and established artisans,

as well as building relationships among our members and the community.

Stop by the gallery or visit our website to learn

how to become an exhibiting member.  

For more information,

contact the gallery at 843.501.7522 or visit

www.charlestoncraftsgallery.com

Find your Fabulous this March!

“Find Your Fabulous”, celebrates several of our fine craft artisans and their wearable art. The Charleston Crafts Gallery represents craft as an expression of the creative spirit with our artisan made apparel and accessories.

The Gallery is hosting an open house on Second Sunday, March 12th, 2:00-5:00 to showcase three of our talented artists.

LuAnn Rosenzweig is a wearable art fiber artist. Originally, she started out sewing “origami jackets”, consisting of 6 separate squares of fabric sewn together in a straight line. Through folding and minimal cutting, the squares evolve into a swing jacket with raglan sleeves. Recently, she creates much of her wearable art by either “repurposing” or “rescuing” fabrics. LuAnn also handmakes sling purses, long, multi-paneled knit vests, bow ties and hand-dyed silk scarves from her thrift store finds, giving new life to old well-loved clothes.

SHARON WILSON

Nancy Warren is a handweaver and fiber artist, who began weaving in 1976.  Nancy’s weaving is primarily wearables and accessories. She also uses dyeing, surface design and beadwork in her wearable art, and ten years ago began to make handcrafted jewelry with fabric or fiber techniques. At the Gallery you can find two types of her art work: textiles and jewelry.

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VALERIE LAMOTT

Raquel Quiroz is a knitting fiber artist. Originally from Peru, she learned to knit from her mother and grandmother.  She hand-crafts wearable art including knitted hats, scarves, purses, and gloves. Using colorful yarns, her knitted and stuffed children’s “animals” are delightful and so loveable, they are sure to be collectable.

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Charleston’s destination for Fine Craft since 1989, the gallery is located at 84 Society Street, just steps from King Street, in the city’s shopping, cultural and dining hub. The gallery is now open DAILY from 11:00-6:00 and staffed by it’s friendly and knowledgeable member-artisans. Charleston Crafts Cooperative Gallery is a dynamic community of more than two dozen jury-selected artisans, all of whom are from South Carolina, making this the city’s only exclusively local craft gallery. For more information: 843.501.7522 or www.shopcharlesonsscrafts.com

Meet Our New Artists On Sunday, January 8, 2 to 5 pm!

Join us in celebrating “New Year, New Art!” at the gallery in January. 

We’re hosting a reception on Sunday afternoon, January 8, to introduce new makers working in fiber arts, paper quilling and fine furniture. Special displays of new artists’ work continue throughout January and we can’t wait to show you the exciting new work from these creative artisans:

Bonnie Younginer Fiber Arts

Bonnie Younginer is a fiber artist interpreting the beautiful natural habitat of the SC coast. She creates contemporary wall art using felting techniques with dyed fleece and spun yarns. She also weaves expressive tapestries with wool yarn. Creating alchemy with wool, Bonnie’s work captivates the senses with its warmth, color and texture.

Fairoozan Paper Quilling

Fairoozan Abdullah, a paper artist specializing in quilling, works with thin paper strips to craft intricate and decorative wall art and three-dimensional stand-alone creations such as vessels and sculptural pieces. Fairoozan combines her love of paper and her experience in painting to create exuberant, vibrantly colored works of art.

Robb Helmkamp Fine Furniture

Robb Helmkamp crafts original and unique furniture, sculpture and accessories made of various native woods, some pieces with metal accents. Soft contours and subtle curves yield to gentle flow and movement. By juxtaposing wood and metal, light and dark tones, smooth and rough textures, Robb uses woodworking as a canvas for expression.

As an added bonus, our “New Year, New Art!” reception is on Second Sunday when King Street closes to traffic at noon. It’s always a great day downtown – and parking is free. So don’t miss this afternoon of fine craft from our talented trio of new artists. Hope to see you there!

Our Holiday Open House is Sunday, December 11, 2 to 5 pm!

You’re invited to enjoy a festive afternoon with refreshments,
door prizes and complimentary gift wrapping.

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Browse the beautifully decorated gallery and wrap up your holiday list with our dazzling array of ornaments, jewelry, apparel and accessories, plus works in clay, glass, paper, wood and more.

Meet your favorite makers, welcome the gallery’s newest members and see their wood crafts, ceramic creations, mosaics, paper quilling and textile arts.

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Set the scene for a merry and bright holiday with our inspired artisan-made gifts:

Stocking stuffers: Little treasures including handmade jewelry, ornaments, lotions, candles, wood pens, ceramic sculptures, origami and much more.

Cozy gifts: Scarves and gloves to chase the chill, all skillfully hand-knitted and hand-woven by the gallery’s textile artisans.

Gifts for an artful home: Beautifully crafted wood tables and mirrors, bold ceramic sculptures, handmade clocks plus multi-media, mosaic, encaustic and paper quilling artwork for the wall.

Lowcountry gifts: Handmade jewelry portraying local scenes, polymer clay “Charleston Lady” jewelry and ornaments, ceramic mugs and works in wood inspired by the Holy City and our picturesque area.

Gifts of unique style: Gorgeous hand-dyed silk scarves, colorful textile jewelry, handmade purses, chic jackets, plus stylish ties for the guys.

Shimmering gifts: Exquisite works of art in stained and fused glass that bring color and beauty into any space.

Gifts for an elegant table: Table linens, pepper mills, mugs and ceramic and wooden serving bowls and platters.

Amusing gifts: Whimsical Kruffles and Gnomies ceramic sculptures, adorable hand-knitted dolls and creatures, challenging wood puzzles, kaleidoscopes and more gifts guaranteed to bring a smile.

And don’t forget:  Our Holiday Open House is also Second Sunday on King Street, when our main street closes to traffic at noon. It’s always a fun day downtown - and parking is free. So don’t miss this afternoon of festivities!