Society of Bluffton Artists searching for local artists
The art district in Bluffton is growing, but where do local artists go to network, to exhibit or to sell their works?
The founding members of The Society of Bluffton Artists (SoBA) had this in mind when they started the non-profit organization in 1991. Today, SoBA is a thriving community with an eclectic art gallery and Center for Creative Arts instructional studio in Old Town Bluffton.
The group’s organizers are ramping up their membership drive in search of new local artists — from painting and collage to print making and sculpture.
“Members are the lifeblood of SoBA,” said Bill Bogle, SoBA president and a local photographer. “Membership provides 11 display opportunities for the year, discounts on the annual Judged Show, consideration for our Featured Artist exhibition, workshops led by renowned art instructors and camaraderie with other artists.”
There are three levels of membership:
- Starting Membership is $75 and includes discounted rental fees of the Center for Creative Arts for private events, invitation to artist member networking events, discounted classes and workshops, as well as promotional opportunities on the SoBA website and newsletter.
- Exhibiting Membership starts at $200 and includes the starting membership. This level of membership offers artists the opportunity to display and to sell their artwork at the SoBA gallery.
- The Friends of SoBA donor membership offers three levels of giving that range from $125-$500 and includes all of the benefits of the starting membership. Contributions are 100% tax-deductible will help support SoBA.
Membership is open in all visual art categories: painting, collage, photography, print making, jewelry design, sculpture and more. The jewelry membership categories are filled, but those interested can be added to a wait list.
“Running a Gallery is a business and our members help in this endeavor by taking advantage of the many volunteer opportunities, including staffing the gallery, where they greet visitors and promote member art,” said Bogle.
For more information about SoBA membership, visit sobagallery.com/memberships/ or contact Mary Burrell, SoBA’s membership committee chairwoman, at maryellenburrell@aol.com.
About Society of Bluffton Artists
The Society of Bluffton Artists (SoBA) is a non-profit organization established to promote a stimulating community environment for the visual arts and assist area students and artists in enhancing their artistic abilities. SoBA is the flourishing art hub in Bluffton’s historic District at the corner of Church and Calhoun streets. SoBA offers regular art classes, featured artist shows and exhibitions. Please visit www.sobagallery.com for a complete calendar of events and other information or call 843-757-6586.