New FMU gallery puts alumni work on display

University Place Gallery, Francis Marion University’s newest art gallery in downtown Florence, opened its doors Sept. 3.

Its first event is a visual arts alumni juried exhibit. The exhibit is free and open to the public and will feature recent works from visual arts alumni, including contemporary paintings, drawings, photography, ceramics, and fiber art. All told, there are 63 works created by 35 alumni on display. The oldest alumnus graduated in 1994.

University Place Gallery Coordinator Colleen Critcher, one of the artists with work on display, said some of the works are for sale.

The exhibit will run through mid-October, concluding with a closing reception for artists, friends and the public on Oct. 18 from 6 to 8 p.m.

The University Place Gallery is located in the former L.S. Rainwater Building, 142 N. Dargan Street in downtown Florence. The almost 17,000-square foot building was gifted to the University by the City of Florence. Renovations were funded through a generous grant from the Drs. Bruce and Lee Foundation.

The renovations updated and modernized the building’s infrastructure while retaining its early 20th century character. Original brick walls are exposed, high ceilings are plentiful and many original features have been retained, resulting in a stunning space.

The first floor gallery is expected to become an important addition to the region’s visual arts offerings. It will also be available to the public as rental space for events.

FMU’s Kelley Center for Business Development will operate its business incubator on the second floor. The third floor houses office space.

Gallery hours are Tuesday-Thursday from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m., Friday from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m., and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

For more information on the Visual Arts Alumni Juried Exhibition or the gallery, contact Colleen Critcher at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..