Join the SC Arts Foundation for Once Upon a Time in Aiken!

Join the SC Arts Foundation for Once Upon a Time in Aiken!
Magnolia Mare by Nanette Langer

Magnolia Mare by Nanette Langer

Once upon a time, Aiken, South Carolina, was the winter playground of famous folks from the Northeast, who brought their stable of horses down South and enjoyed the mild climate.  On Sunday, October 16, the South Carolina Arts Foundation is hosting an art experience highlighting the city’s illustrious history of famous residents and visitors, equestrian life, world-class historic inns, and private residences and cottages that are part of the Winter Colony.

Once Upon a Time begins with a driving tour of Horseplay – Aiken’s 2003 public art project of life-size fiberglass horses painted and embellished by artists from North Carolina, South Carolina and Georgia.

A tour of Joye Cottage (pictured above), one of Aiken’s oldest and largest winter retreats, will be led by Steven Naifeh, the owner of Joye Cottage, a Pulitzer Prize-winning author and co-author of the acclaimed book Van Gogh: The Life.

After viewing this magnificent home, guests will be driven to The Willcox for champagne and musings about the hotel’s history and famous guests. The evening ends with a three-course meal with wine pairings, prepared by The Willcox’s Executive Chef Regan Browell.  The setting for the dinner is a secret location — an elegant private residence built circa 1815 and exclusively available through The Willcox.

Southern Valet will transport guests to Aiken from Columbia, departing at 1 p.m. and returning by 9 p.m. Tickets are $175 per person. To reserve a ticket, contact Gwen Boykin, (803) 734-8766.

Proceeds from this event benefit the South Carolina Arts Foundation, a nonprofit organization supporting the education and arts development programs of the South Carolina Arts Commission.

For more information about the event, contact Harriett Green, (803) 734-8762.