Spartanburg oil painter Carol Story will take visitors behind the scenes of her creative process in From Concept to Canvas, an exhibition on view Sep 1 – 26 in Gallery II at Artists Collective | Spartanburg.

The exhibition will feature approximately a dozen new, original oil paintings accompanied by reference photographs, preliminary sketches, notes, and other materials that reveal how Story develops an idea into a completed work of art. An ArtWalk reception will be held Sep 17, with an artist talk beginning at 6:30pm.

“This is not only a display of new work completed this year,” Story says. “It is instructive regarding the process used to produce these paintings.”

Created over nine months, the exhibition includes Story’s characteristic landscapes and floral paintings. Her work is representational and realistic, often described as peaceful, with subjects inspired by her travels throughout Georgia, the Carolinas, and farther afield.

Through the inclusion of photographs, sketches, and explanatory notes, Story hopes non-artists will gain a greater understanding of the time, thought, and preparation required to create a finished painting. She also hopes the exhibition will offer practical insight and encouragement to those who are learning to paint realistically or working to develop their skills.

The idea for the exhibition grew from Story’s experience preparing to teach a painting workshop. As she organized her lessons, she reflected on what she had learned from other artists and on the processes that help transform an initial concept into a successful composition.

“I considered all I have learned from other artists regarding the process which, when followed, is more likely to lead to a pleasing painting,” Story says. “I am thankful for each artist who has generously shared their knowledge and expertise through classes and workshops, as well as those I follow on social media who continue to inspire me.”

About the Artist

A Georgia native and 45-year resident of Spartanburg, Story came to painting later in life, during what she calls her “grandmother years.” Although her father led art departments at two Georgia colleges, she did not begin pursuing art herself until adulthood.

Story earned a degree in education from the University of Georgia. Her professional and community life has centered on teaching, writing, and service. She and her husband have been married for more than 50 years and have three children and eight grandchildren. She is also an avid reader who enjoys cooking and traveling, interests that frequently provide inspiration for her paintings.

Over the past 20 years, Story has studied oil painting through classes at the Spartanburg Art Museum and workshops with several established artists. She has been a member of Artists Collective | Spartanburg for 10 years, serving in several management board positions. She has presented solo exhibitions at ACS for the past nine years and has also taught painting workshops. Her work has appeared in juried exhibitions at Artists Collective | Spartanburg and the Anderson Arts Center.

“As a painter in oils, I consider myself representational in style,” Story says. “Whether inspired by riotous color or the subtlety of shadow, I find beauty and insight in landscapes, animals, and arranged objects. My hope is to arouse an emotion, elicit a memory, or challenge the viewer’s imagination.”

Story says exhibiting at Artists Collective | Spartanburg is both a privilege and an opportunity to participate in a supportive artistic community.

“I appreciate being part of a friendly, creative group and enjoying a wealth of encouragers,” she says.

The paintings in From Concept to Canvas will be available for purchase, with prices ranging from $400 to $600.