Rhett Thurman’s “Band of Angels” is the cover art for Dunes Properties’ 2009-2010 Vacation Guide
Summer weather is here and the beach is on the minds of many. Some like to take a dip in the ocean, others like to relax on a screened in porch. Charleston-based painter, Rhett Thurman, is inspired by the bright bold colors and light during this time of year. A seventeen piece collection of her paintings will be on display at The Real Estate Studio, located at 214 King Street from May 18-June 29. The work is available for viewing Monday through Saturday 9am-6pm, Sundays 11am-4pm.
Thurman’s work is distinguished by her signature vibrant and fresh palette. She also impresses with her broad range of subject matter. Her extensive travels are a reoccurring inspiration for the artist. She approaches each painting, whether it is a street scene in Mexico, a field of strawberries in California, or a child playing on the beach with the same sentimental connection with the viewer.
Thurman has achieved national acclaim for both her oils and watercolors. She has exhibited with the prestigious American and National Watercolor Societies, been featured in national publications and is included in private, museum and corporate collections. She was the 2003 artist in residence for the Gibbes Museum of Art Poets’ and Painters’ program. Thurman is the recipient of the 1995 Outstanding Alumna Award from Queens College, where she earned her degree in studio art. Her education and painting experience include further studies in Europe and the United States. As Charleston is a destination for international art collectors, Thurman’s work has worldwide exposure and is gaining in popularity.
The artist says, “Whether painting at home or abroad, a complicated sidewalk café or a simple slice of melon, my quest remains the same: pushing past what I’ve done before for a fresh spin of light, color, and relationships of people, places, and things”. She has served as president of South Carolina Watercolor, and a co-founder of Southern Exposure, offering national and international travel and painting opportunities. Thurman is represented by The Sylvan Gallery which is located at 171 King St. and open Mon-Sat 10-5, www.thesylvangallery.com, 843-722-2172.