Exhibit from Aug. 3-30; Opening Reception from 3-5 p.m. Aug. 7 

The Society of Bluffton Artists (SOBA) is proud to present “Everyday Life on Hilton Head,” a solo exhibit by Nancy Huson, as its August Featured Artist show. The exhibit will be on display from August 3rd through August 30th at the SOBA Gallery, located in Old Town Bluffton.

An opening reception — free and open to the public — will take place from 3 to 5 p.m. Thursday, August 7th at the gallery, offering the community a chance to meet the artist and enjoy light refreshments.

Nancy Huson draws inspiration from her daily walks through Hilton Head’s natural landscapes — its beaches, gardens, and marshes. Her oil and pastel paintings radiate with vibrant color and the quiet joy of everyday island moments. Whether capturing the delicate bloom of a lily or an ibis mid-hunt at Sea Pines Forest Preserve, Huson’s work is a visual journal of the serene beauty that surrounds her.

“I try to capture the beauty of those experiences with vibrant colors as I see them in nature’s light,” Huson said. “It is my hope that I can visually communicate the happy and peaceful feelings of my experiences with the viewer.”

Huson studied fine art and printmaking at Colgate University, and further honed her craft at studios in Kansas City and through workshops with accomplished plein air artists Carol Douglas and Greg Barnes.For more information about Nancy Huson and to preview her work, visit nancyhuson.com. For gallery hours and additional information about SOBA, visit sobagallery.com.

Reception to be held 3-5 p.m. July 10 at The Society of Bluffton Artists Gallery

The Society of Bluffton Artists (SOBA) is pleased to present “Flight-n-Fancy” by Janet Urbanic July Featured Artist Exhibit, on display from July 6 through August 2 at the SOBA Gallery in Old Town Bluffton. An opening reception is scheduled for 3-5 p.m. Wednesday, July 10 and is free and open to the public.

Urbanic’s artwork reflects her deep appreciation for the beauty of the Lowcountry, particularly its captivating birds, serene marshes, and vibrant wetlands. Working primarily in oil and watercolor batik, she brings a gentle, often whimsical approach to her compositions, exploring the emotional connections found in nature and human relationships.

“I try to capture the softer side of life through my brush,” Urbanic said. “Whether it’s the grace of a heron or the whimsy of a watercolor batik, I’m inspired daily by the beauty that surrounds us.”

A native of Ohio, Urbanic relocated to Sun City nearly six years ago after retiring from a 25-year corporate career. She began painting in oils through a class offered by the Cleveland Museum of Art, building upon a creative foundation that began with teaching ceramics and china painting. Urbanic holds a Bachelor’s degree in Communications from Hiram College, where she also pursued her love of art through elective coursework — including a formative trip to Paris to study the works of master painters.

Urbanic is a proud member of SOBA and also exhibits with the Art League of Hilton Head and at Sun City.

“Reflections of the Lowcountry”

Highlights serene marshes, coastal scenes and the tranquil beauty of Bluffton’s natural surroundings

The Society of Bluffton Artists (SOBA) presents “Reflections of the Lowcountry,” a solo exhibition by local artist Marie Camenares, on display June 1–28 at the SOBA gallery, located at 6 Church Street in Old Town Bluffton.

An opening reception — free and open to the public — will be held from 4–6 p.m. Friday, June 6.

Camenares’ work explores the quiet magic of the Lowcountry through pastel and watercolor landscapes that celebrate the golden marshes, tidal creeks, and ever-changing coastal skies. Her luminous paintings offer more than a scenic view — they capture the emotion and depth of place that define this unique region.

“The landscapes of the Lowcountry hold a quiet magic — where golden marshes stretch to the horizon, tidal creeks reflect the ever-changing sky, and the salt air whispers through the grasses,” Camenares said. “My paintings aim to capture the shifting light, depth of color, and sense of peace that makes this region so special.”

A Bluffton resident and lifelong artist, Camenares draws inspiration from the natural world around her. She specializes in pastels and watercolor — mediums that allow her to express both bold color and soft luminosity. Her background as a horticulturist and floral designer brings an organic understanding of color, form, and movement to her work.

Camenares studied art education at C.W. Post College and has spent years refining her craft. Her work has become a visual love letter to the Lowcountry, inviting viewers to pause, reflect, and see the beauty in their surroundings.

Nicholas Di Mona, acclaimed for his distinctive wood sculptures crafted from deceased and fallen trees, announces his upcoming exhibition, “The Beauty of Wood: Creations by Nicholas Di Mona,” hosted at the Society of Bluffton Artists (SOBA) gallery from August 5 to August 31.

The exhibition’s opening reception will take place on Tuesday, August 6, from 5-7 p.m. at SOBA gallery, providing art enthusiasts an opportunity to meet the artist and engage with his works firsthand.

Di Mona’s work celebrates the natural intricacies of wood, transforming imperfections such as knots, inclusions, and grain into singular pieces of art. Each creation, born from a reverence for nature and a spontaneous artistic process, exemplifies his lifelong dedication to wood carving and turning.

“When turning a project I am the mechanic but God is the designer,” Di Mona said.

Originally from New Jersey and now residing in Bluffton, Di Mona’s artistic journey began at the age of 10, inspired by his grandfather’s wine grape boxes. Over the years, he honed his skills, specializing in realistic depictions of birds, animals, and wood spirits. His leadership roles in the Nature Coast Carving Club and the Hands On WoodTurners Club underscore his commitment to sharing knowledge and fostering artistic talent.

The SOBA featured artist exhibit will run from June 3-30 with an opening reception from 5-7 p.m. June 8

The Society of Bluffton Artists is thrilled to announce the upcoming art exhibit featuring the captivating works of Julia Kamenskikh. Her exhibition invites art enthusiasts to immerse themselves in the beauty of Lowcountry landscapes through a unique artistic lens.

“Bring the Light” will run from June 3-June 30th at The SOBA Art Gallery in Old Town Bluffton.The opening reception for Kamenskikh’s exhibit will take place from 5-7 p.m. June 8th at The SOBA art gallery. These events are free and open to the public.

Kamenskikh has a profound connection with nature through her works of Lowcountry landscapes. With each stroke of her brush, Kamenskikh delves into the essence of local nature, expressing her deep appreciation for the enchanting salted marshes, expansive ocean vistas, and ever-changing skies.

“Light is my main subject and in each painting I am exploring how we see the world around us,” Kamenskikh said.

Drawing inspiration from plein air painting and local travels, Kamenskikh infuses her pieces with authenticity and heartfelt emotion, ensuring that every scene she captures resonates authentically with the viewer. Her commitment to perfection and adherence to the timeless traditions of old European Masters shine through in every meticulously crafted artwork.

Kamenskikh’s artistic journey has been one of passion and perseverance. Despite pursuing an engineering degree initially, her innate artistic talent continued to beckon, leading her to embrace her true calling as a full-time artist after the birth of her twins.  

Today, Kamenskikh’s art graces private collections around the world, earning her recognition and accolades for her skill and dedication.  In addition to her artistic pursuits, Julia is an active member of the plein air painting community, participating in Paint Out Events and sharing her expertise through classes and workshops. Her commitment to both her craft and her community underscores her dedication to enriching lives through art.

The SOBA Featured Artist Exhibit Will Run Jan. 2-28 with an opening reception from 5-7 p.m. Jan. 11

Missy Gentile typically begins her abstract painting classes with a quote from the artist Helen Frankenthaler: “One of the first rules is no rules.” She will apply this same philosophy with her upcoming featured artist exhibit in January at The Society of Bluffton Artists gallery in Old Town Bluffton.

The exhibit will run Jan. 2-28 with an opening reception from 5-7 p.m. Jan. 11 at The SOBA gallery on Church Street. These events are free and open to the public.

“Action Painting” will feature several pieces of her abstract works that convey strong emotional or expressive content, breaking away from traditional processes. Gentile draws inspiration from her life experiences and her core values of service and human connection.  

“My art reflects my vision of no boundaries,” Gentile said. “What the eye sees is what it is — How it moves you is most important.”

Much of her inspiration comes from her time living in Paris, France. She later settled in Houston, Texas for the next 20 years, dedicating her life to art and serving others. Missy created her first studio and art gallery. She volunteered in hospitals with cancer patients and for AIDS patients at the Omega House, where she facilitated connections and emotional care through sharing the creative art experience. Additionally, Missy taught in the school system. 

Missy’s paintings are in collections internationally. In 2002, Art Business News featured her works inspired after 9/11. Her paintings also have appeared on the cover of PINK Magazine with a piece called “Feeling Her Power.” Missy continues to exhibit her work locally and teaches Abstract Painting at The SOBA Art School, and private classes in her studio.

The Society of Bluffton Artists Featured Artist Exhibit will take place Sept. 6- Oct. 2; meet the artist from 5-7 p.m. Sept. 9

Mary Treadwell’s love of art has followed her since childhood — to Paris in 1994, to London in 1995, back to Paris in 2001, to Texas in 2004 and to the Lowcountry in 2015. In fact, Treadwell has traveled extensively to Thailand, Korea, Myanmar and throughout Europe. 

“I always brought along my painting kit and would try to experience the atmosphere and light of the area,” she said, “ A painting is like a diary. It brings you back to that day and you can recall the smells, light, the colors, and the weather, as well as who you were with.”

Treadwell’s artwork is primarily in permeate intense watercolor.  Her works reflect a broad range of subject matter ranging from colorful fish to bright flowers and from traditional landscapes to realistic cityscapes. She’ll exhibit her work at The Society of Bluffton Artists gallery in Old Town Bluffton from Sept. 6- Oct. 2. Meet the artist during a special reception from 5-7 p.m. Sept. 9 at the gallery, 6 Church Street. These events are open to the public.

Treadwell’s work is featured in private collections in many homes and businesses around the world. She has taught art classes on cruise ships. Additionally, she studied art and worked as a painter and an artist in Paris, London and Texas. In Paris, Mary studied with Chantel Chauvinere-Riant, a famous watercolorist and sculptor.

Throughout her residency in Paris, Treadwell taught privately and at the Organization of Economic and Cooperation Development (OECD). 

Liam Giblin was awarded The Society of Bluffton Artists (SOBA) Naomi McCracken Scholarship during a special reception June 17 at the SOBA gallery in Old Town Bluffton.

The scholarship is presented every year to a deserving local high school graduate who is pursuing a major in the art field at the college level. Giblin was an AP student who graduated from Bluffton High School in the top 10% of his class. In addition to art, Giblin participated in marching band and orchestra. He also volunteered at Heroes on Horseback.

Giblin plans to attend Winthrop University in Rock Hill with a major in illustration. Giblin enjoys working in black and white with ink washes, as well as charcoal. 

Emmett McCracken, whose mother was a founding member of SOBA, and Mary Ann Burgeson, president of SOBA, presented Giblin with the scholarship award. He plans to pursue a career in newspapers and magazines.

Naomi McCracken was one of the founding members of SOBA. When Naomi passed away in 2006 her family requested that in lieu of flowers donations should be made to SoBA. In the spring of 2007, her son, Emmitt McCracken, and Dave Dickson, then president of SoBA, established the scholarship program for a graduating senior who planned to further their studies in the field of art. 

Service will be held at 7 p.m. July 9
at SOBA’s Art School in Old Town Bluffton

Before there were art galleries in Old Town Bluffton, local artists had only one platform to sell their works: the annual Mayfest. That was 30 years ago. Today, Calhoun Street’s art corridor is a huge draw for local artists who want to showcase their works. It’s also a popular destination for visitors and locals.

This wouldn’t have been possible without the efforts of Lynda Potter and Peggy Duncan, two best friends who were among the founding members of The Society of Bluffton Artists (SOBA) and who jump-started several art galleries in the area. Their contributions to making Bluffton’s art district what it is today are undeniable, say family and friends.

“They were always promoting artists. They taught classes. They tried to share their resources, time and talent,” said Laura Barrett, a Bluffton interior designer and Peggy’s close friend, adding, “Bluffton is a destination for people interested in the Arts. Peggy and Lynda were part of the reason why.”

Duncan and Potter were best friends and neighbors who worked together to foster an appreciation for art in every form. They died within one month of each other this spring. 

SOBA will hold a special event honoring Lynda Potter and Peggy Duncan at 7 p.m. July 9 at The SOBA Art School, located next door to the art gallery on the corner of Calhoun and Church Streets. The public is invited and will have an opportunity to view a sampling of their art, along with a slideshow of memories. 

“Lynda believed that individuals should explore their creative juices without equivocation and without restraint,” said Steve Potter, Lynda’s husband of 63 years this month. Together, they had five children.

Steve Potter said he was lucky to witness his wife in action, observing from the back of one of her art classes. “It was a wonderful experience to watch her. She knew how to cajole people into being expressive and creative on their own. I think that’s what a good teacher does,” he said.

Potter worked with a variety of art media. She switched between acrylics and watercolors, often using both to create complex, multi-layered mixed-media pieces. Potter was known for painting rich, rhythmic floral pieces, as well as loose, atmospheric architectural works based on the historic houses of Savannah, Georgia and Bluffton.

With more than 35 solo shows and various awards and prizes, Potter has had her art published in five books and is listed in the national register’s Who’s Who in Executives and Professionals in the 2003-2004 edition.

Duncan opened one of Bluffton’s first art galleries in 1985, called “A Little Local Color”and  located in the back side of where the Bluffton Pharmacy is now. Duncan also opened the first framing business in Bluffton. Later, Peggy rebranded and moved to a larger location, known as Crossroads Fine Art and Framing. Duncan and her late husband Jonathan Nelson, also a talented painter, owned and operated Crossroads until early 2001 when they moved again to Calhoun Street, renaming to Pluff Mudd Gallery. Duncan also founded La Petite Gallerie on Calhoun and Artist House Too gallery in North Carolina.

Murray Sease, a local artist and member of SOBA, worked closely with Duncan to be part of a new Bluffton gallery venture, and she took her very first art workshop led by Potter. 

“Two of the most important ladies in my art world passed away within weeks of each other,” Sease said. “As much as I miss them both, I like to think of these two friends in the next world happily painting together again.”

1-2:30 p.m. April 16, 23, 30 • $30 per class • Ages 13 to adult

Explore the world of painting with pastels! Artist Marie Camenares will demonstrate some techniques that you can use to create your personal masterpiece with step by step instructions. All materials will be provided.

Contact Barbara Pecce at [email protected] for more information.

Register for the class here