Columbia, South Carolina – The Cottontown community in Columbia will spring to life with the vibrant hues of newly unveiled art at the annual Cottontown Art Crawl. Set for Saturday, March 8, 2025, from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., this beloved outdoor celebration not only celebrates local creativity but also marks the launch of two major additions to the public art scene of the area.
Two new Urban Canvas tapestries will be unveiled in the center of Cottontown as part of the Columbia Streams Art public art initiative. Each measuring 6 feet by 8 feet, these pieces of art are the most recent additions to the often changing look of this old neighborhood.
Local artists Michael Cassidy and Stephen Chesley have captured the natural beauty that coexists with the city by vibrantly visualizing Columbia’s river life on their canvases. These tapestries will find their home on the exterior wall facing Jefferson Street at Il Focolare Pizzeria, located at 2150 Sumter Street.
Apart from these new pieces, the Cottontown Art Crawl will also include the relocation of a bigger 15-by 10-foot Urban Canvas tapestry. Originally shown on the side of Todd & Moore Sporting Goods last August, this work highlights the cooperative efforts of ten local artists. Now moving to grace the NOMA Warehouse building’s outside wall at 2222 Sumter Street, it continues its trip across Cottontown’s visual landscape.
Envisioned by Stormwater Studios artist Stephen Chesley and other local artists, the Urban Canvas tapestry seeks to reimagine public art in Columbia. Described as “anti-murals,” these massive, moveable tapestries are meant to be displayed in several public outdoor spaces throughout the city. This creative method allows a wide audience to experience the works, therefore including a varied cross-section of the community.
A mainstay of Columbia’s cultural calendar, the Cottontown Art Crawl not only highlights local artists but also supports them. This free event allows the public to enjoy local cuisine, art, and performances while wandering throughout the historic downtown Cottontown district. Combining new artwork exhibits with community celebrations, the event offers a day of inspiration and community involvement.
Read also: Free virtual workshops aim to equip Florence business owners with essential financial tools
This year’s art crawl will be particularly unique since it increases the interaction between the community and its artists, transforming the area into a live gallery where every corner provides an exciting visual thrill. New tapestries give layers to this continuous dialogue, so the Cottontown Art Crawl is a must-visit event for both artists and residents of the area.
Read also: City of Florence seeks public input to design next-generation parks and activities, you can join too
Events like this guarantee that art is easily available and essential to the identity of the neighborhood as Cottontown keeps flourishing as a hub of innovation.
