First Friday Artwalks

Charleston has been named the number one place in America for art lovers.  The distinction is based on a per capita breakdown of the number of art entities (like galleries and museums) compared to the population.  So when you visit the Isle of Palms, you are just a short drive from an exceptionally high concentration of creativity.

First Friday Artwalks are a great way to experience Charleston’s art scene.

Basically, around 40 galleries in downtown Charleston’s French Quarter stay open after hours on the first Friday evening of the month and host special exhibits.  Galleries are located on Broad Street, Queen Street, King Street, East Bay, Church Street, State Street, Meeting Street and others.  Many have complimentary wine and hors d’oeuvres, some have live music.  Oftentimes the artists are on hand to discuss their work.

The Charleston Gallery Association sponsors the Artwalks, and they provide maps of participating galleries.  A wide spectrum of artistic styles and media are represented  -  abstract, realism, landscape, Lowcountry and contemporary, in the form of paintings, sculpture, photography, jewelry and more.

Traditionally, Artwalks take place from 5:00 till 8:00 p.m. on the first Friday evening of most months.  They host them every month except January and July.

Here are the dates for 2024:

• February 2nd
• March 1st
• April 5th
• May 3rd  -  Check out the new Charleston Crafts Cooperative Gallery at 140 East Bay Street, for their special exhibit entitled, "Masquerade," as well as The Vendue, which opens its new show, "Welcome to the Jungle: Beneath the Canopy;"
• June 7th
• August 2nd
• September 6th  Be sure to check out "The Tiny Show" of miniatures, at the Charleston Crafts Gallery, 140 East Bay, Suite D;
• October 4th
• November 1st
• December 6th

Word to the wise: wear shoes that are comfortable for walking.