How long has the Beaufort Art Association been active in the Lowcountry?
Since its inception 50 years ago (1957!), the Beaufort Art Association (B.A.A.) has contributed vital logistics and continuity to the visual arts in Beaufort County, South Carolina. As Beaufort developed into one of the most charming artistic communities on the east coast of the United States, the B.A.A. became a regional centerpiece for local artists, art lovers and artisans to support, exhibit and grow their individual talents.
What does the Association do?
B.A.A. encourages the visual arts in the greater Beaufort area by providing programs and exhibits that foster art appreciation and education in the visual arts. Instrumental in offering popular lecture series, free art classes, workshops, and shows, the Beaufort Art Association welcomes the public to these open presentations. In alliance with local schools, the B.A.A. also provides programs designed to expose students in Beaufort County to fine art, sculpture, photography, handcrafts, and digital art, and to encourage career development in these and related artistic fields. B.A.A. members participate in local fund raising activities for local charities, such as their annual "Paint the Town Purple" art auction, where plein air artists and artisans create works they donate to the auction with the proceeds going to help the Alzheimer's Foundation.
How are the Gallery and the Association connected?
The Beaufort Art Association Gallery opened in the spring of 2002 and displays the works of B.A.A. Exhibiting Artist Members. The Gallery moved in 2005 year to the historic "Elliot House" on the corner of Bay and Charles Streets in historic downtown Beaufort. Read more at our Gallery Page.
Do I have to be an artist to join the Association?
With the needs and assets of the community in mind, B.A.A. offers several types of memberships; General, Corporate, & Student. Exhibiting Artists form another group of members who fully participate in running the Gallery. Please visit our Membership page to learn more about the benefits and what it takes to become a member. We hope you will all become members of the Beaufort Art Association!
How is the Association funded?
The B.A.A. is a non-profit organization with 501(c)3 tax exempt status. All donations given to the B.A.A. are tax deductible. The B.A.A. is funded in part by County revenues, as well as from private donations from companies and people like you.
"Chartered in 1957 to promote community interest and education in the visual arts."
