St. Simons Island isn’t just a beach town. It’s also one big art gallery. The beauty of the island can be seen in many of the wonderful works our local artists create. I’ve had the privilege of getting to know some of our amazing local artists including Gogo Ferguson (who’s on this month’s cover), the late Jack Davis, Millie Wilcox, Peggy Everett, Jim Jones, Ken Wallin, and Glenda Cason, among others. One thing they all have in common, besides being incredibly talented, is a deep love for our little island. Through the years, whether the medium is clay, canvas, jewelry, metal, or photography, our artists have given us thousands of works that help beautify our houses and make them into homes.
Some adventurous folks go from being art admirers to picking up a paint brush themselves. There are numerous classes taught by artists that offer you a chance to get in touch with your inner Rembrandt. I actually took a painting class a few years back. It went about as well as the time I tried to take singing lessons or when my mom made me take piano lessons back in 7th grade. In all three instances, the instructors were honest enough to tell me that, while they always thought “anyone can learn” to play the piano, sing, or paint, there is always an exception—and I was the exception. In the case of my piano lessons, I didn’t have to quit, my piano teacher asked my mom NOT to enroll me the next year. Rhonda Hambright is an amazing singer and vocal coach. After my first private singing lesson, she offered to give me my money back. And when I took a two-day painting class taught by Peggy Everett with 14 other artists, I tried to quit after the first day. Fortunately, Peggy let me!
While I know I may not be able to create art, I can and DO appreciate art. I love going into Anderson Art Gallery to view the latest paintings and seeing new works by local artists at Glynn Visual Arts. I encourage every EIL reader to get out this month and visit the wonderful art galleries on the island. No exceptions!
