AnnualReport
Letter from the Board Chair
On behalf of Greenville Center for Creative Arts’ Board of Directors, I am pleased to present this comprehensive report on our activities and achievements in 2023. Reflecting on the past year, I am filled with immense pride and gratitude for the progress we have made and the community we have continued to build. In 2023, I was honored to serve as the Vice Chair of the Board, and it has been a privilege to transition into the role of Chair at the beginning of 2024.
In this report, you will find detailed accounts of the programs, events, and initiatives that have shaped our year. From inspiring exhibitions and educational workshops to community outreach and artist residencies, GCCA has continued to thrive as a vibrant hub for creativity and artistic expression.
Over the past year, GCCA has solidified a robust partnership with Greenville County Schools (GCS) that has led to the organization of student exhibitions, where young artists can showcase their talents in a professional setting, fostering their growth and confidence. Additionally, GCCA has partnered with lead visual arts teachers to develop and deliver professional learning opportunities to the school district’s 145 visual arts teachers.
I would like to extend my heartfelt thanks to the entire GCCA community, including our dedicated staff, passionate volunteers, generous donors, and supportive members. Your unwavering commitment and enthusiasm have been instrumental in making 2023 a truly remarkable year for Greenville Center for Creative Arts.
As we look ahead to the second half of 2024 and beyond, I am excited about the endless possibilities and opportunities that lie before us. Together, we will continue to nurture and celebrate the arts, championing a dynamic and inclusive environment where creativity can flourish.
Thank you for your continued support and belief in the power of the arts.
Sincerely,
Bradley Wingate, Chair, GCCA Board of Directors
GCCA 2024 Board of Directors
Bradley Wingate, Chair Director of Visual & Performing Arts, Greenville County Schools
Bill Stephenson, Vice Chair Retired - Sr. Vice President in Commercial Real Estate Lending
Dan Helwing, Treasurer Partner, Ernst & Young LLP
Blair Knobel, Secretary Founder - KNOBEL Media
Mark Colby Director of Digital Transformation, Michelin
Mary Church Cornette CEO, Head of Creative, FUEL
Kacee Lominack
Marketing Manager, Peacock Marketing
Earle Furman (GCCA Founder) Chair, NAI Earle Furman, LLC
Daniel Hartway
Upstate SC Business Banking Manager/SVP, First Citizens Bank & Trust Co.
Benjamin Hepner Associate, Littler Law Firm
Kate Lacher
Artist & Creative Coordinator, Craig Gaulden Davis
Vee Popat Director, Fine Arts Center
Rhonda Rawlings
Neighborhood Engagement Director, Mill Village Ministries
Nathan Reynolds Principal, Navesink Aviation
2023 Board of Directors
Yvonne Julian, Chair
Bradley Wingate, Vice Chair
Tony Callander, Treasurer
Blair Knobel, Secretary
Anne Q. Barr
Diana Farfan
Earle Furman (GCCA Founder)
Daniel Hartway
Benjamin Hepner
Sam Jenkins
Kate Lacher
Vee Popat
Rhonda Rawlings
Nathan Reynolds
Heather Wheless
Being part of the arts is being part of the change.
Mission
To enrich the cultural fabric of our community through visual arts promotion, education, and inspiration.
Vision
To be a recognized hub for accessible visual arts education and experiences through our work to energize and empower the arts community.
Values
• Art should be accessible to everyone.
• The people served by GCCA represent the richness of diversity within our community and feel a sense of belonging in our mission and space.
• We believe in the importance of highquality education and the artistic excellence that comes from hard work.
• Creativity and innovation have the power to transform communities.
Letter from the CEO
2023 was a year of remarkable innovation and experimentation at GCCA. With a nearly new team, we infused fresh ideas and energy to enhance our services for artists, members, and students of all ages. Our goal was to push boundaries, explore new avenues, and ensure that GCCA remains a dynamic and welcoming hub for creativity.
Early in the year, we hired GCCA’s first full-time Visitor Experience Associate. This role has been instrumental in creating a welcoming and informative environment for all who visit GCCA. It has allowed us to improve visitor engagement, ensuring every guest feels valued and informed about our offerings and events.
In May, we launched a revamped membership program, maintaining special benefits for artist members and introducing the Friends of GCCA, a premier giving circle for those giving $500 or more. This new tier offers VIP recognition and exclusive engagement opportunities, building deeper connections with our most dedicated supporters.
May also saw the opening of The Shop at GCCA, a vibrant new space for artists to sell and promote their work. The Shop has quickly become an integral part of our center, providing artists with increased visibility and new income opportunities, fostering a stronger sense of community and support for local artists.
The second half of the year featured exciting new events. We hosted GCCA’s first-ever signature fundraising event, The Color Gala, which was a resounding success and a true celebration of the arts. We also introduced a special holiday event, Make and Be Merry, showcasing the talents of the Carrie Burns Brown Art School. These events raised essential funds and brought our community together in joyous and creative ways.
Reflecting on the past year, I am incredibly proud of our strides and new initiatives. We have embraced change and welcomed new opportunities to better serve our creative community. Your support, enthusiasm, and feedback have been invaluable.
Thank you for taking this journey with us as we grow and discover more about what our community wants and needs in their art center. We can’t wait to see what else is in store as we continue to evolve and thrive together.
With gratitude,
Jess Abbott, Chief Executive Officer, GCCA
GCCA Staff
Jess Abbott, Chief Executive Officer
Hailey Chapman, Visitor Experience Associate
Alicia Mizuno, Operations Manager
Javy Pagan, Program Director
Ben Tarcson, Gallery Director
Founders’ Circle
Randolph and Allen Armstrong
Bryant Brown
Carrie Burns Brown*
Linda* and Earle Furman
Tracy T. Hardaway
Rebecca R. Johnson
Patricia and Don Kilburg
*In Memoriam
Our Impact
Exhibitions
24 free exhibitions
5,964 attending First Friday openings and other events
247 exhibiting artists from five different states
183 ARTalk participants engaging directly with artists
Art School
842 Art School students expanding their creativity
120 classes and workshops with16 artist instructors
311 artists sharpening their entrepreneurial skills in free Business Toolkit classes
Community
210 Summer Campers exploring new talents
80 Aspiring Artists in Youth workshops at Freetown and Sterling Community Centers
34 studio artists making their home at GCCA
3 new Brandon Fellows and 24 alumni creating a network of diverse, emerging artists
2023 Revenue
2023 Expenses
National Philanthropy Day
On November 16, 2023, Greenville Center for Creative Arts proudly hosted the National Philanthropy Day Event, presented by the Association of Fundraising Professionals (AFP) SC Piedmont Chapter. This esteemed event celebrated the remarkable philanthropic contributions of individuals and organizations in the Upstate region.
The highlight of the evening was the recognition of GCCA’s Founder, Carrie Burns Brown, who was honored with the Lifetime Achievement Award for Philanthropic Service. This accolade underscores her enduring commitment and significant impact on the arts community and beyond.
GCCA’s CEO, Jess Abbott, who serves on the Board of Directors for the AFP SC Piedmont Chapter, played a pivotal role in orchestrating this memorable event. Her leadership and dedication to fostering a culture of philanthropy were evident throughout the evening.
This event was a testament to the power of giving and the profound difference it makes in our community. We extend our heartfelt congratulations to all the honorees and express our gratitude to everyone who supports and champions philanthropic efforts in the Upstate.
2023 National Philanthropy Day Honorees:
• W.M. Bubba Self, Jr.: Awarded Outstanding Philanthropist for his exceptional generosity and support for various causes.
• Mathew Wall: Recognized as Outstanding Volunteer for his dedicated service and unwavering commitment to helping others.
• Arkwright Foundation: Named Outstanding Organizational Partner for their collaborative efforts and impactful contributions to community initiatives.
• Kea Wade: Celebrated as Outstanding Fundraiser for her innovative and effective fundraising strategies.
• Carrie Burns Brown: Awarded Spirit of Philanthropy Lifetime Achievement for her dedication to philanthropy and giving across her lifetime.
Photography by Elizabeth Wallace
Abacus Planning Group
AFL Global
Allen and Randolph Armstrong
Anne Q. Barr
Blair Knobel and Kim McMillin
Blue Cross Blue Shield of SC
Lee Bowman
Bryant and Gayle Brown
Carrie Burns Brown
Alan and Jane Butcher
Anne Carpenter
Charlotte Bledsoe
Christine Chevalier
City of Greenville
Community Foundation of Greenville
Community Foundation of Middle Tennessee
Mary Church Cornette Countybank
Craig Gaulden Davis
Lillian Darby
Jane Davenport and Jim Musselwhite
Anonymous Donor
Betty Farr
Cara Ferneyhough
Fidelity Charitable
Stephen and Nancy Finch
First Citizens Bank
Justin and Quinn Fletcher
Ashley Forbes
Earle Furman
Fielding and Gally Gallivan
Friends of GCCA
Give Lively Foundation, Inc.
Skip and Carrie Gordon
James and Mary Gorman
Greenville County
Laurie Gregory
Jess Haggerty
Charles and Tracy Hardaway
Pat and Mary Lou Hartness
Hart-Oeland Foundation
Daniel Hartway
Dawn Hayden
Virginia Hayes
Daniel Helwing
Peter and Jean Helwing
Jackie D. Highley
Samuel T. Jenkins III
Joseph and Ann Jennings
John I. Smith Charities
Jolley Foundation
Yvonne Julian
Donald and Patricia Kilburg
Fletcher and Becky Kirkland
Kate Barton Lacher
Lauren Smith-Nagel
George and Catherine Manning
Robin Marsh
Kevin McSloy
Melissa and Doug Sturgis
Metropolitan Arts Council
Damien F. Michelin
Clark Mickel
Microsoft
Mr. and Mrs. Kenneth Carroll
National Philanthropic Trust
Edgar and Stephanie Norris
Terrance O’Leary and Jane Linker
Mary Pauly
Sidney Query Pearce
W. Roy and Susan Phillips
Piedmont Natural Gas
Premier Arts Collective
Susan Priester
Publix Super Markets Charities
Cal and Mary Ratcliff
Nathan Reynolds Jr.
Jane Roy
ScanSource
Sean Scuras and Catherine Paul
Hal and Minor Shaw
Patricia Shufeldt
South Carolina Arts Commission
RaAmen Stallings
Sharon and Adrian Steinmann
Bill Stephenson and Mike Cobb
Christine Swann
Tina Tape
The Daniel Mickel Foundation
The Duke Energy Foundation
The P. and C. Carroll Foundation
The Spinx Company
U.S. Charitable Gift Trust
United Community Bank
Heather Wheless
Wright Design
Brad and Taryn Wright
Joseph Wright and Martha Sutherland-Wright
Jane Todd & Alan Butcher
Jane Todd and Alan Butcher are pillars of support in Greenville’s arts scene, with their dedication to GCCA deeply inspiring those around them.
Reflecting on GCCA’s beginnings, Jane recalls, “When GCCA first opened, we were Carrie Brown’s regulars, bringing our own stools and painting them.” This grassroots spirit has been integral in shaping GCCA into the vibrant hub it is today.
Alan, originally from Michigan, moved to Greenville in 1976 through a corporate transfer, while Jane arrived after graduating from Illinois State and securing a position at Clemson. Meeting in Greenville, they’ve become key figures in the city’s cultural fabric. “We’re practically natives,” Jane notes.
Jane’s love for teaching and art led her to become involved with GCCA, where she started teaching and taking classes when it opened in 2015. “I began doing workshops rather than weekly classes, which gave me
more flexibility,” she explains, cultivating a creative environment.
Though not an artist, Alan embodies the supportive spirit of the “Husbands of Artists” group (HOA). His backing has been essential in helping Jane and others thrive. “If you weren’t an artist, you wouldn’t do it. There’s an interest,” Alan remarks.
Beyond the arts, the Butchers’ philanthropic efforts extend to the broader community, supporting organizations like the Humane Society and Upstate Forever.
Jane emphasizes GCCA’s accessibility, stating, “An art center for people who aren’t art-educated isn’t as off-putting as a museum. GCCA offers something to the community.”
The Butchers’ story is a testament to the impact of dedicated individuals in nurturing artistic endeavors, with their legacy of support and passion remaining a cornerstone of GCCA’s success.
Rhonda Rawlings’ journey to Greenville is captivating. Originally from Mount Vernon, New York, her career in television, film, and radio took her from Temple University to Los Angeles. Family ties brought her to Greenville, where she developed a passion for the area’s theater, arts, and baseball.
Her connection with GCCA began through her work in radio, leading her to join the GCCA board in 2021. Rhonda is enthusiastic about the Brandon Fellowship Program, which empowers young artists.
“The Brandon Fellowship is an amazing opportunity for young artists,” she says. “GCCA does an incredible job giving
people a chance to turn their passion into something tangible.”
Rhonda also supports GCCA’s summer camp program and First Friday events, seeing them as vital for community engagement. She believes in the art’s ability to enhance cognitive skills and academic performance in young people.
“I meet people who aren’t familiar with GCCA, but when they visit, they’re blown away by the talent showcased here,” she notes.
As an advocate for diversity, Rhonda is committed to ensuring GCCA reaches
Rhonda Rawlings Board Member and Champion of th
Brandon Fellowship Program
audiences from all walks of life. She applauds the center’s efforts to create opportunities for people from various socio-economic backgrounds through outreach programs in community hubs like Sterling and Freetown. She envisions expanding school outreach and exploring mobile art programs to further GCCA’s impact.
In addition to her work with GCCA, Rhonda addresses food insecurity through her role at Mill Village Farms and her previous work with Harvest Hope Food Bank. Her love for theater sees her supporting local venues like Center Stage and the Peace Center. Rhonda’s dedication to the arts and community shines brightly, especially through her involvement in the Brandon Fellowship Program.
Rhonda’s story is just one of many that make GCCA a vibrant and inclusive space. We are incredibly grateful for her contributions and look forward to continuing this wonderful journey together.
— Rhonda Rawlings “
‘I’ve always wanted to’ should become ‘I am planning to.’ ”
2023 Fundraising Initiatives
2023 was a remarkable year for GCCA as we launched two groundbreaking fundraising initiatives: the Membership Program and the Masterpiece Society. These programs are designed to foster a deeper connection with our community while securing the financial stability needed to continue our mission of enriching the cultural fabric of Greenville through visual arts promotion, education, and inspiration.
Membership Program
Our new Membership Program, introduced in 2023, offers an accessible way for art lovers and community supporters to engage with GCCA. Starting with a donation of only $50, members gain a range of benefits that grow with higher levels of support. Members enjoy perks, such as discounts on classes and workshops, exclusive invitations to member-only events, and early access to exhibition openings. This program not only provides vital funding for GCCA’s operations and outreach but also builds a vibrant community of individuals passionate about the arts in Greenville.
Members at higher donation levels ($500 and above) receive additional benefits, including special recognition and exclusive engagement opportunities, ensuring their support is acknowledged and celebrated. This initiative has already shown promising results, strengthening our ties with existing supporters while attracting new patrons who share our vision for a thriving arts community.
Masterpiece Society
The Masterpiece Society represents our commitment to long-term sustainability and visionary philanthropy. This society invites donors to make lasting contributions through planned giving. By including GCCA in their estate plans, members of the Masterpiece Society ensure that their legacy supports the arts for generations to come. Planned gifts include cash, stocks, bonds, retirement assets, and life insurance policies.
Members of the Masterpiece Society receive immediate recognition and benefits, such as invitations to exclusive events like the Founders’ Dinner, VIP engagement opportunities, and listings in our Annual Report and lobby signage. This forward-thinking initiative allows donors to make impactful gifts that are often larger than those possible during their lifetimes, all while retaining control over their assets.
These fundraising initiatives are more than financial strategies; they are expressions of our belief in the transformative power of the arts and our commitment to making art accessible to everyone. We are deeply grateful to our community for their unwavering support and look forward to continuing to grow together, creating a lasting impact on the cultural landscape of Greenville.
For more information on how you can become a member or join the Masterpiece Society, please visit our website at www.artcentergreenville.org.
2023 Brandon Fellows
In 2023, the GCCA proudly welcomed three new Fellows: Kephira Davis, Christine Moore-Bonbright, and Elizabeth Wallace. Beyond their impressive artistic abilities, these talented individuals brought unique skills and perspectives to GCCA, enriching our community and creating positive change through the arts.
Fostering Growth and Community Engagement
Brandon Fellows are not only stewards of their own art practice and studio but also active participants in both our organization and the broader community. Their engagement is crucial to their development as well-rounded professional artists, allowing them to grow through real-world art experiences.
A Legacy of Empowerment
Since its inception in 2015, the Brandon Fellowship has become a cornerstone for emerging artists, providing them with essential tools, space, and time to embark on professional art careers. With a network of 27 Fellows and alumni, GCCA continues to cultivate a new generation of artists and community advocates who contribute to the economic and cultural vitality of Greenville.
Spotlight - Kephira Davis:
During her fellowship, Kephira Davis achieved significant milestones that highlight her artistic growth and contribution to the community. She was invited to participate in an exhibition at Tiger Strikes Asteroid Greenville and celebrated her first solo show at the Warehouse Theatre. Her initiative and drive to be a leader in the arts also led to her being hired as an ARMES instructor in Greenville County and as a Summer Camp Assistant Instructor at GCCA.
In collaboration with her fellow Brandon Fellows, Kephira co-created a promotional mural at Camperdown Plaza for the Jazz Festival and curated the Brandon Fellows’ first online gallery exhibition, titled “Worlds Away,” featuring the works of 15 artists. Her dedication and accomplishments have already made a lasting impact on the Greenville art scene.
“The Brandon Fellowship has opened my eyes to many opportunities. With my growing experience as a teacher, I enjoy connecting with the young people in my community and showing them ways in which art enriches our lives. I’ve gained confidence as an artist, teacher, and as an individual!”
2023 Brandon Fellows from left to right: Christine Moore-Bonbright, Kephira Davis, Elizabeth Wallace
Photography by Hector Davis
Young Artists Programs
2023 Summer Camp:
2023 Summer Camp served over 150 students over eight weeks of in-depth, engaging, hands-on arts learning across mediums, such as painting, drawing, fiber arts, and more! Campers were given the opportunity to work with professional artists, focusing on a new medium and experience each week. Of the 150 campers, 70 students received scholarships through GCCA’s year-round partnerships with Sterling and Freetown Community Centers.
2023 Aspiring Artist:
2023 brought a shift in Aspiring Artists after school programming. Beginning September 2023, GCCAs current Brandon Fellows led monthly workshops at Sterling and Freetown Community Centers using mediums of art as vehicles to help students further develop confidence, empathy, problem solving, and general life skills. Projects focused on getting students to think outside themselves for ways to better their immediate circles of influence and larger communities. They participated in “thank you” card creations to civic servants, watercolor self portraits using abstract tactics to celebrate each students unique self, and positive storytelling through creating their own animated characters and comic strips. Additionally, students at Sterling Community Center worked with Blank Canvas Mural Company Owner and Lead Artist Adam Schrimmer to create a memorial mural depicting the rich cultural heritage found at Sterling on the site of the historic Sterling High School.
8th Annual Showcase
A Celebration of Artistic Diversity and Talent
Every August and September, the Annual Showcase brings together the vibrant works of GCCA’s members and the current year’s Brandon Fellows. This showcase highlights a diverse array of mediums, themes, and techniques, representing the creative breadth of student, emerging, and professional artists across the Upstate.
The opening on August 4, 2023, marked one of GCCA’s most significant events of the year, attracting over 900 attendees. The evening was a true celebration of artistic excellence and community spirit, highlighting the vital role of GCCA in fostering creativity and supporting artists in the region. The Annual Showcase continues to be a cornerstone event for GCCA, underscoring our commitment to promoting the arts and providing a platform for artists of all stages to share their work and inspire the community.
Annual Showcase Highlights:
• 132 Artist Members: The 2023 exhibition featured an impressive collection of artwork from 132 GCCA Artist Members. Their pieces, ranging from paintings to functional ceramics, exemplified the rich talent and diversity within GCCA’s visual arts community.
• Summer Camp Showcase: Artworks from all eight weeks of Summer Camp included creations from each camper, demonstrating the growth and creativity of our young artists.
• Brandon Fellows Spotlight: The 2023 Brandon Fellows—Orlando Corona, Faith Hudgens, and RaAmen Stallings—presented their culminating works of their fellowship, exploring themes like as heritage, impacts of story, and community engagement. This spotlight exhibition provided a powerful conclusion to their year-long Fellowship journey.
Reflecting on 2023, GCCA proudly highlights the contributions of Courtney Dicely, a dedicated volunteer whose diverse experiences enrich our community.
Originally from Greenville, Courtney has a rich background in the arts and advertising. After earning his BFA and working on Madison Avenue, he returned to Greenville four years ago, inspired by his painter grandfather. His passion for visual arts has always guided him.
Upon his return, Courtney sought a nonprofit art group aligned with his values and discovered GCCA. Drawn to our commitment to local and regional artists, cutting-edge exhibits, and educational programs, he became actively involved. His volunteer efforts range from participating in First Fridays to creating paintings for silent auctions and supporting GCCA and other causes.
One of Courtney’s memorable projects at GCCA was painting a passageway, transforming a mundane space into an area rich with history and creativity. Inspired by local history, he imagined Shoeless Joe Jackson transporting fabrics through the same halls, blending his artistic skills with an appreciation for local heritage.
Beyond GCCA, Courtney creates monthly paintings, engages in photography, and has started an outdoor sculpture project. His diverse artistic endeavors highlight his continuous pursuit of creative expression.
As we celebrate volunteers like Courtney, we recognize their dedication is integral to GCCA’s success. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to him and all our volunteers for their invaluable support and commitment.
Courtney Dicely
2023 Studio Artists
Mary Pauly marypaulyart.com
Will Crooks willcrooksphoto.com
Michael Lechlitner michaellechlitner.com
Sara Touchet saratouchetphotography.com
Ed Cascone www.edcasconesaxman.com
Mary Whiteman (Finn) www.maryfinndesigns.com
Eli Warren eliwarren.com
Christine Swann swannportraits.com
Kym Easter kymeasterart.com
Sofia Sayer sofiainvitations.com
Tania Ro taniaroart.com
Craig Ragsdale craigragsdale.com
Hans-Peter Bolz hans-peterbolz.com
Diarmuid Kelly diarmuidkelly.com
Meghan Verrett frenchiesfineart.com
Steve Courchaine facebook.com/courchaine.artstudio
Eden Stern edenstern.com
Orlando Corona www.orfamivisualart.com
Suzanne Harned artcentergreenville.org/studio-artists/ suzanne-harned/
Darius Ollison dariusollisonphotography.com
Savannah Ralph savvyralph.com
Louisa Pyle Kirk louisapyle-kirk.squarespace.com
Lynn Shiflet instagram.com/selectnconnect
Nick Burns www.ninjapicasso.com
For over 6 years, I’ve been a Studio Artist at Greenville Center for Creative Arts. During that time, my wife and I have enjoyed taking classes in the art school and our children have enjoyed summer camps and workshops. More than just an art school and gallery space, GCCA unites creatives of all ages and walks of life from across the region by creating a community that fosters creative growth and encouragement.
— Craig Ragsdale GCCA Studio Artist
2023 Exhibitions
Main Gallery
It’s all around us
Heather Brand, Alan Shuptrine, & Dawn Stetzel
February 2023 - March 2023
Past/Present
Dwain Skinner & Lee Malerich
April 2023 - May 2023
Invisible Planet
Kara Virginia Russo & Joseph Smolin
June 2023 - July 2023
2023 Annual Showcase
132 GCCA Members, 2023 Brandon Fellows, & Summer Camp Showcase
August 2023 - September 2023
Parting Lines
TeaYoun Kim Kassor, Mayuko Ono Gray, & Sabre Esler
October 2023 - November 2023
Pent Up Pink
Fleming Markel
December 2023 - January 2024
Community Gallery
No Detail Too Small
Jordan Winiski & KC Christmas
January 2023 - February 2023
Works by Elizabeth Kinney
Elizabeth Kinney
March 2023 - April 2023
Messages from the Past
Deborah Puretz Grove & Caroline Hughes
May 2023 - June 2023
GCS Award Winners Show
July 2023 - August 2023
Rural Carolina Revisited
Pat Konicki
September 2023 - October 2023
Mono No Aware
Leigh Mitchell
November 2023 - December 2023
GCCA proudly presented the Main Gallery exhibition, “Parting Lines,” featuring the artwork of acclaimed artists TeaYoun KimKassor, Mayuko Ono Gray, and Sabre Esler. The exhibition, which ran from October 6 to November 22, 2023, transformed the gallery with its large format artwork exploring human existence, memory, and identity through diverse representations of lines.
Parting Lines Exhibition Spotlight
“Parting Lines” brought together over 30 intricate drawings, paintings, and silk works, each piece offering a unique perspective on what it means to be human. TeaYoun Kim-Kassor’s installation series, “Modulation,” delved into identity and the interplay between personal history and migration. Kim-Kassor’s work resonates with universal questions of self and place, inviting viewers to reflect on their own journeys. Sabre Esler’s art takes a scientific
approach, using color theory to visualize abstract thoughts. Her exploration of the invisible constructs of ideas bridges the gap between art and science, aligning perfectly with the exhibition’s theme. Mayuko Ono Gray’s graphite drawings seamlessly merge traditional Japanese calligraphy with Western drawing techniques. Her works capture everyday life experiences, paired with Japanese proverbs, symbolizing the journey of life from birth to death.
“Parting Lines” not only highlighted the talents of the featured artists but also underscored GCCA’s commitment to fostering cultural dialogue within the community. The exhibition provided a platform for visitors to engage deeply with the themes of identity, memory, and human connection, further enriching the cultural landscape of Greenville.
The Inagural Color Gala
On November 2, 2023, GCCA hosted its inaugural Color Gala, a vibrant celebration that brought together artists, donors, members, and volunteers for an unforgettable evening. Held at GCCA’s beautiful facility on Abney Street, this signature event marked a major milestone in the organization’s history and proved to be a resounding success, both in terms of fundraising and community engagement.
The Color Gala was designed to immerse attendees in a night of colorful celebration, with every detail reflecting the artistic spirit of GCCA. Guests enjoyed delectable food and beverages curated by ChefanieB and Mingle Masters, while the Fine Arts Center Jazz All Stars provided a lively musical backdrop. The event featured live art-making demonstrations, adding an interactive element that captivated the audience and showcased the talents of GCCA’s studio artists.
One of the highlights of the evening was the silent auction, which included exquisite pieces donated by local artists and supporters. The auction not only highlighted the incredible talent within the Greenville arts community but also played a crucial role in raising funds to support GCCA’s core programming. These programs include free public exhibitions, professional development resources for artists, and youth
outreach initiatives that make art accessible to everyone in the community.
Jess Abbott expressed her gratitude and excitement about the event’s success. “The Color Gala was a wonderful opportunity to recognize and promote the impact of the visual arts in Greenville,” she said. “We are thrilled by the support we received from our community and look forward to continuing to foster creativity and artistic expression through our programs.”
The success of the Color Gala was made possible by the generous contributions of sponsors, including Tracy and Charles Hardaway, Craig Gaulden Davis Architecture, Bill Stephenson, and Yvonne Julian, among others. Their support, along with the enthusiasm and participation of all attendees, ensured the event was not only a financial triumph but also a memorable celebration of the arts in Greenville.
As GCCA looks ahead to future events, the inaugural Color Gala stands out as a testament to the power of community and creativity. It was a night where artists and art lovers alike came together to celebrate their shared passion, leaving a lasting impression on all who attended.
Photos by Amy Randall Photography
A Special Thank You
Featured Artwork and Photography by TeaYoun and Amy
TeaYoun Kim-Kassor (Phonetically, TaeYun: “Tea” as in “Taylor” & “Youn” as in “Sun”) is an artist, educator, and leader from South Korea with academic degrees from South Korea, Japan, and the U.S. She is currently a Professor and Department Chair of the Foundation Program at Otis College of Art and Design in Los Angeles, CA. TeaYoun has developed her artistic path alongside teaching, leadership, and leadership skills, focusing on transnational education and the importance of understanding global perspectives.
Please visit her website for more details: https://teayounkim-kassor.org
Amy Randall
Amy Randall is an experienced commercial photographer based in Upstate South Carolina, specializing in professional portraits, locations, and corporate and nonprofit events. With more than 25 years of experience, she excels at making her subjects feel at ease and believes everyone can look great in photos with the right photographer.
Amy’s services include portraits, branding images, event photography, and stunning photos of buildings and landscapes. She offers discounted services to nonprofits and is passionate about supporting those making a positive impact.
Amy is active in the Rotary Club of Greenville, serving on the Board of Directors and as PR Chair. She is also a founding member of the Upstate Poets, meeting monthly to explore and share their craft.
Outside of work, Amy enjoys traveling and spending time outdoors with her family.
TeaYoun Kim-Kassor
GCCA accepts many forms of philanthropic donations, including cash, gifts of stock, and grants through donoradvised funds. For more information or to discuss naming GCCA as a beneficiary of your estate, life insurance policy, or retirement account, please contact Jess Abbott, CEO, at (864) 274-0351 or Jess@artcentergreenville.org.
P.O. Box 2206
Greenville, SC 29602