exhibits

The SCSM Traveling Exhibits Program—TEP

The Traveling Exhibits Program at the South Carolina State Museum provides museums, art centers, universities and other qualified institutions with high quality, affordable traveling exhibitions. TEP provides an array of stimulating shows for institutions of any size, from large exhibitions designed for major museums to smaller, South Carolina-specific exhibits for local museums and galleries.  The TEP goal is to advance appreciation for and understanding of the art, history and cultures of South Carolina by offering exhibits on a variety of topics and disciplines, ranging from the turbulent history of Native Americans in South Carolina, to unique photography and contemporary fine art. 
 
For more information contact the Traveling Exhibits Program at 803.737.4159 or email tep@scmuseum.org

Available Traveling Exhibits

From Quilts in the Attic to Quilts on the Wall: Exploring Textile Art by African Americans

A new traveling exhibit organized by the City of North Charleston Cultural Arts Department, this quilt show comes with all the hanging equipment needed to mount the exhibit in your gallery.

The works in this exhibit pay homage to Harriet Powers, who is considered the great grandmother of art quilting. Her art quilts date back to 1895, where she exhibited at the 1895 Cotton States and International Exposition in Atlanta.  “During the late nineteenth century ‘story’ or narrative quilts as well as stringy or strip quilts were popular among African American quilters. Harriet Powers is perhaps the most recognized example of African American story quilts.”  Elaine Nichols, curator of history, South Carolina State Museum.

The six artists in this exhibition explore and depict their African heritage through cloth using a variety of techniques from traditional to non traditional quilting.   Included is the use of indigo in the art of batik.

Exhibiting artists include Dr. Edward Bostick, Wendell Brown, Dorothy Montgomery, Torreah Cookie Washington, Arianne King Comer, and Catherine Lamkin.

Please e-mail Jeff.Powley@scmuseum.org for additional information and digital pictures of the work.

Specs:

  • 12 works in fiber, various sizes
  • Hanging poles and hardware
Cost:
  • $300 for one month rental
  • $450 for two months rental
  • $550 for three months rental  

Security: High

Transportation Requirements: Van or large car (quilts are folded but poles range up to 10’ long)

The Life and Times of Congressman Robert Smalls

Robert Smalls was born an enslaved person on April 5, 1839, in a small cottage in Beaufort, SC. By the time he died in 1915, Smalls had served five terms in the United States Congress.  Visitors to this exhibit will learn about his heroic exploits during the Civil War and be inspired by his legacy of bravery, leadership and public service to all Americans.

The exhibit which is scheduled to tour nationally includes visual displays, three dimensional artifacts such as furniture from the Robert Smalls house in Beaufort, pictures and other memorabilia of Congressman Smalls, his family and his life. Also included is a digital photo frame with pictures from the 2004 christening and the 2007 commissioning of the LSV-8 MG Robert Smalls, the largest army transport ship of its kind. The MG Robert Smalls is named for Congressman Smalls who was also commissioned as a Major General in the South Carolina Militia. The Collection has been granted a license to concurrently show Part IV of "Slavery and The Making of America" which depicts the story of Robert Smalls' life from slavery to Congress.
 
Specs:
  • 31 framed and matted reproductions of photographs, legislation and period documents
  • 2 ship models in oak cases
  • 4 pieces of original furniture
  • Replicas of 1861 Tower musket, walking stick and slave tags
  • Memorabilia from the christening of the LSV-8 MG Robert Smalls
  • Binder containing replicas of Robert Smalls’ correspondence
  • Memorabilia from schools named after Robert Smalls
  • 9 exhibit panels with text and graphics
  • Space Requirements: 1000 square feet
Cost:  $5000 for 12-week booking period plus shipping
 
Security: high
Transportation requirements: preferred shipper available
 
Books on Robert Smalls are available in the Cotton Mill Exchange.
 
 

Camera Man's Journey: Julian Dimock's South

These historic photographs were taken in and around Columbia, Beaufort, and Hilton Head between 1904 and 1905 by noted photographer Julian Dimock. Dimock's large format images show men, women, families and a significant number of children engaged in everyday life - at work, at home and at play. They document the clothing, tools, toys as well as the landscape and architecture of the period. These pictures are a valuable resource for learning about life for African-Americans at the turn-of-the-twentieth-century.

Specs: This exhibit is split into two shows.  The first show contains photos from Columbia and Beaufort, the second show contains photos from Columbia and Hilton Head.  Each show contains 37 photographs.
• The framed pieces are 26" x 32".
• The photo itself is 17" x 20".
• The photos have been printed and faux matted.

Cost:
  • Cost to rent one show (37 pieces):
  • $275 for one month rental
    $400 for two month rental
    $500 for three month rental
     
  • Cost to rent both shows (74 pieces):
  •  
  • $350 for one month rental
    $550 for two month rental
    $700 for three month rental
Security: Moderate
Transportation Requirements: Van with no seats

Fads: Fine Art Digitals by Bill Helms

South Carolinian Bill Helms, was probably the youngest combat photographer when he boarded the USS Yorktown in 1944. Since then, his photography has been transformed into personal visions and recombinations of the world around him. This exhibit of his works are color photo montages and digital manipulations that range from a kind of modern impressionism to various degrees of abstract realism. Some images will hang vertically, and some horizontally. Labels are attached to plexiglass.
 
Specs:
  • 40 wood framed & matted color photographic images. (Works can be edited down to fit one's gallery spaces).
  • 32 images ---- 19" x 25 "; includes one panel example of how his pictures are combined
  • 2 pieces---approx. 24"x30" (one horizontal, one vertical)
  • 4 vertical panels 31"" x 41"
  • 1 horizontal 29"x 50"
  • 1 bio panel, horizontal, 23" x 50" long quilt wrapped.

Cost:

  • $425 for one month rental
  • $650 for two month rental
  • $1025 for three month rental

Security: Moderate
Transportation Requirements: Van with no seats

Fractals: Mathematics and Science As Art

Mathematical "objects" produced by a computer.These 32 panels, 20" x 30" colorful framed images provide a mix of horizontal and vertical presentation formats, with two pieces (seemingly identical) meant to hang about an inch apart--creating one larger "image"

Fractals are many things. These abstract designs depict some of the following:
  • fascinating designs of infinite structure and complexity.
  • geometric shapes that have symmetry of scale.
  • designs that mimic naturally occurring patterns (like clouds, mountains, river systems and deltas, coastlines, leaves, snowflakes, the nervous system, and blood vessels).
  • images which are repetitive in shape but not in size.
  • mathematical "objects" produced by a computer.These colorful framed images provide a mix of horizontal and vertical presentation formats, with two pieces (seemingly identical) meant to hang about an inch apart--creating one larger "image".

    One's imagination and curiosity might be awakened with these attractively produced two dimensional artistic creations.
Specs: 32 framed images 20” x 30”

Cost:
  • $275 for one month rental
  • $400 for two month rental
  • $500 for three month rental

Security: Moderate
Transportation Requirements: Van with no seats

South Carolina Palmetto Hands Fine Craft Exhibition (New each year!)

2009 South Carolina Palmetto Hands Fine Craft Exhibition is the only statewide fine craft competition and exhibition.  Created by the City North Charleston, this juried exhibit showcases artists working in an eclectic array of media.  This show captures the spirit and complexity of native South Carolinian crafting. Display pedestals provided.
 
This year’s traveling exhibit features work by 19 artist-craftspeople.  Although the 28 objects come with display pedestals, the exhibit can easily be shown on your own pedestals.
 
A press release outline is included along with artists’ biographies and digital photographs. 
 
Specs:
28 art objects in fiber, wood, clay, metal, and mixed media by artisans who competed in the SC Palmetto Hands Fine Craft Competition and Exhibition during the City of North Charleston Arts Festival 2009. 
Display pedestals provided.
 
Cost:
  • $300 for one month rental
  • $450 for two month rental
Security: High
Transportation requirements: Van with no seats

The First South Carolinians

The Life and Times of the First Cultures in the Palmetto State


During the Ice Age water frozen in glaciers lowered sea levels and exposed land. Anthropologists and archaeologists believe that a land bridge emerged connecting Russia and Alaska between 14,000 and 12,000 years ago. The earliest people, PaleoIndians, crossed it to North America following game and exploring land. Within 1,000 years of their immigration, what is now South Carolina had its earliest residents.

Specs: 27 exhibit 28” x 32” panels and 8 objects

Cost:

  • $275 for one month rental
  • $400 for two month rental
  • $500 for three month rental

Security: Moderate
Transportation Requirements: Cargo van


Chapters in South Carolina History: Colonial Life

Experience colonial life in the South through this insightful exhibit.  See how lives were impacted and how South Carolina was forever changed after the signing of the Declaration of Independence.

Specs: 31 exhibit panels 28" x 32"

Cost
  • $275 for one month rental
  • $400 for two month rental
  • $500 for three month rental
Security: Moderate
Transportation requirements: Van with no seats


The Forgotten War

The Palmetto Regiment and the Mexican War, 1846-1917


In 1846 the United States declared war on Mexico, and President James K. Polk’s administration called for volunteers. South Carolina contributed 10 companies, the Palmetto Regiment. After two years of long marches, disease and battles interspersed with long periods of boredom, the Palmetto Regiment returned home, reduced in numbers but welcomed as heroes.

Specs:  21 exhibit panels (sizes range from 42” x 30” to 17” x 30)

Cost:
  • $275 for one month rental
  • $400 for two month rental
  • $500 for three month rental
Security: Moderate
Transportation Requirements: Van with no seats

Inspirations: Photographs of the Lowcountry by Lyn Calahorrano


See the places and faces of South Carolina’s Lowcountry through the lens of photographer Lyn Calahorrano.  Her captivating photographs and creative juxtaposition, skillful camera angles and artistic views make these pictures of common and recognizable places, people and things unique.

Specs: 37 wood framed and matted photographs 12.5” x 15.5”

Cost:
  • $275 for one month rental
  • $400 for two month rental
  • $500 for three month rental
Security: Moderate
Transportation requirements: Any size car would accommodate this exhibit




South Carolina Watermedia Society Annual Exhibition (New each year!)

This juried exhibition was developed by the South Carolina Watermedia Society in 1977, and contains works by some of South Carolina’s most talented artists who are members of the SCWS. This show is accompanied by a DVD containing commentary from the juror, a portfolio of artists’ resumes and colorful exhibit brochures.

Specs:
  • 30 framed paintings.
  • Sizes vary each year- maximum 48” x 48”

Cost:

  • $300 for one month rental (only available for one month)

Security: High
Transportation requirements: Cargo Van with no seats


521 All-Stars: A Championship Story of Baseball and Community

Based on the 1998 book The 521 All-Stars: A Championship Story of Baseball and Community, this exhibit depicts the game in its purest form: scrap metal base lines, rotten wood bleachers, teams made up of brothers, fathers and sons, and most importantly, fellowship within the community.

Until Jackie Robinson broke the color barrier in 1947, major league baseball was the pastime for white players and fans.  Segregated and separated, black players were forced to form leagues of their own.

In 1996, author Frye Gaillard was driving north on Route 521 in Sumter County when he discovered a homemade ballpark and stopped to take pictures of the players.  He and his partner, photographer Byron Baldwin, spent the next season and a half watching and studying the Gamecock baseball league of Rembert, S.C.  The teams are comprised only of African-Americans.

Specs:
  • 6 metal framed photographs 18.5” x 37.5”
  • 33 metal framed photographs 24.5” x 20.5”
  • 3 metal framed photographs 16” x 20.5” 
  • 2 text panels
  • 1 metal 521 road sign
  • Space Requirements: 100 linear feet
Cost:
  • $275 for one month rental
  • $400 for two month rental
  • $500 for three month rental


Security: low
Transportation requirements: Cargo van with no seats

Robert Mills: Designs for Democracy

The renowned creations of one of the Palmetto State’s most respected native sons are the focus of this special traveling exhibit.  Twenty-four graphic panels which feature copies of some of Mills’ most famous sketches, drawings and elevations are displayed.  The show is a smaller version of one created by the American Architectural Foundation, for which Dr. John M. Bryan, head of the art history department at the University of South Carolina, served as guest curator.

Mills is considered in many circles as this country’s first and foremost architect.  His 19th century designs have not only stood the test of time, but have become among the most familiar symbols of American democracy.

Mills’ architectural works, particularly of churches and courthouses, can be seen in communities throughout the Palmetto State, as he served as the state’s superintendent of public buildings from 1822 to 1824.  The Mills exhibit includes some of these designs but also looks at other buildings, such as Monticello, the Washington Monument and the first building of the Smithsonian Institution.

Specs:
  • 24 wood framed panels, 26” x 38” each
  • Running feet: 250 – 300

Cost for in-state rental:

  • $275 for one month rental 
  • $400 for two month rental 
  • $500 for three month rental

Cost for out-of-state rental:

  • $1500 for one month + shipping
  • $2000 for two months + shipping
  • $2500 for three months + shipping
Security: Moderate
Transportation requirements: Cargo van with no seats

Robert Mills: His Plans and Buildings

 
Robert Mills: His Plans and Buildings is a collection of 16 framed panels featuring photographs of the Mills’ buildings which were built in South Carolina.  Robert Mills: His Plans and Buildings compliments the larger exhibit, Robert Mills: Designs for Democracy.  Both are stand alone exhibits or can be displayed together for a more thorough look at this architect.
 
Each panel contains text describing the photograph and points out details unique to Robert Mills’ designs.  This exhibit was organized by the South Carolina State Museum, the Historic Columbia Foundation and the South Carolina Committee for the Humanities.

Specs:  16 wood framed exhibit panels (24” x 28”)
 

Cost:

  • $275 for one month rental
  • $400 for two month rental
  • $500 for three month rental
Press kit included with photos and a press release for your letterhead.

Security: Moderate
Transportation Requirements: Van with no seats
 

Looking In: Earth from Space

Satellites, robots and computers provide amazing images of our planet.  From the data sent back to Earth, scientists can study weather fronts, track hurricanes and observe events unfolding on our planet’s surface. 

Twenty-one high resolution images from NASA’s on-line resources were mounted and framed for this exhibit which was on view at the State Museum in 2007.  The idea is “how do we look back at Earth from space?” says Curator of Science and Technology Tom Falvey who developed the exhibit for the State Museum.  Looking In: Earth from Space examines our home planet with new eyes.  “For example, the exhibit demonstrates how science studies river systems and volcanoes, land use, forest health and the effects of deforestation by viewing these natural features from space,” says Falvey.

Falvey planned the exhibit to stimulate an appreciation of the beauty and rarity of our planet. “Looking In: Earth from Space presents a unique perspective of our planet.  Enhanced appreciation of our home world will encourage us to redouble our efforts to take care of it.”

Specs:
  • 10 wood framed color photographic images. 24” x 28"
  • 11 wood framed color photographic images, 28” x 40”
Cost:
  • $175 for one month rental
  • $200 for two month rental
  • $300 for three month rental

Please Note: Looking In: Earth from Space is available as a stand alone exhibit or it can be displayed with its sister exhibit Looking Out: Space from Earth.  Inquiries about the cost of renting both exhibits are welcome.
Press kit included with photos and a press release for your letterhead.
Security: Low
Transportation Requirements: Van with no seats

Looking Out: Space from Earth

Technology has enabled us in the past 50 years to peer into outer space like never before using rockets, moon landings, space stations, super telescopes and space shuttles.  
 
Looking Out: Space from Earth features 25 spectacular images of space including solar flares, deep space formations, and a sunset on Mars taken by robot-operated cameras.
 
The future offers opportunities to study our galaxy in greater detail than ever before.  International collaboration expands space and earth research possibilities.  More powerful computers, advanced materials and spacecraft will reveal astonishing discoveries and provide information that will continue to amaze us.  Imagine the surprises to come in the next fifty years!

Specs:
  • 12 wood framed color photographic images. 15” x 15”
  • 6 wood framed color photographic images, 24” x 28"
  • 3 wood framed color photographic images, 13” x 13”         
  • 4 wood framed color photographic images, 17” x 21” 
Cost:
  • $175 for one month rental
  • $200 for two month rental
  • $300 for three month rental
Please Note: Looking Out: Space from Earth is available as a stand alone exhibit or it can be displayed with its sister exhibit Looking In: Earth from Space.  Inquiries about the cost of renting both exhibits are welcome.
Press kit included with photos and a press release for your letterhead.
Security: Low
Transportation Requirements: Van with no seats
 

Diversity Endangered

Diversity Endangered is a natural history exhibit created by the Smithsonian Institution with a grant from the National Science Foundation.  Thirteen colorful panels cover every aspect of the effect humans have on the Earth’s ecosystems.
 
You don’t have to be a scientist to recognize that vast areas of wilderness are disappearing. Every time a highway is constructed, a river dammed, a streambed diverted, or a forest cleared, the natural habitat of plants and animals is lost.  In many cases, habitat is not destroyed entirely. What does vanish is the unseen diversity that depends on complex interactions between all of an environment’s elements.  More than likely, the world’s wildlife will never disappear completely. Some species, such as grey squirrels, starlings, and ragweed, actually flourish in degraded areas. It is the species that are specialized and more sensitive to environmental changes—otters, bluebirds, columbine—that vanish. Conceivably, much of the earth may one day be populated only by those few species hardy enough to survive in depleted environments.
 
Diversity Endangered is ideal for nature centers, schools and natural history museums.

Specs:
13 metal framed panels 40”(h) x 27”(w)

Cost:

  • $275 for one month rental
  • $400 for two month rental
  • $500 for three month rental
Press kit included with photos and a press release for your letterhead.

Security: low
Transportation requirements: Cargo van with no seats
 

 For more information contact the Traveling Exhibits Department at 803.898.4982 or tep@scmuseum.org