This Cozy Coastal Museum Offers More Than Just Pretty Paintings—It’s a Cultural Haven
If you think Myrtle Beach is all about sun, sand, and surf, it’s time to add a splash of culture to your itinerary. Nestled in a historic villa just a stone’s throw from the ocean, the Franklin G. Burroughs-Simeon B. Chapin Art Museum (aka the Myrtle Beach Art Museum) is one of the city’s best-kept secrets. Here are the reasons why this charming museum should be included on your Myrtle Beach bucket list.
An Atmosphere That Feels Like Home
Walking into the Myrtle Beach Art Museum is like stepping into the coziest corner of a dear friend’s historic home—provided that friend just happened to have impeccable taste in art. The museum is housed in a 1924 villa that radiates Southern charm, complete with wooden floors that creak ever so slightly underfoot and large windows that flood the space with natural light. There is also a delightful tea porch that offers a view of the ocean, where you can enjoy a cup of tea and bask in the tranquility. Whether you’re an art lover or just looking for a peaceful retreat, the museum’s warm and welcoming ambiance will entice you to stay awhile.
Rotating Exhibits That Keep Things Fresh
The museum is known for its dynamic rotating exhibitions, which ensure that there is always something new to discover. The exhibits are as captivating as they are diverse, featuring contemporary pieces that prompt one to reconsider the value of money and breathtaking seascapes that encapsulate the essence of coastal life. For instance, the present “Cultural Currency” exhibition investigates the relationship between art and money, exhibiting pieces that are both literally and metaphorically profound. Each exhibit is carefully curated to spark conversation and inspire creativity, ensuring that no two visits are ever the same.
A Pottery Program That Draws a Crowd
Calling all aspiring potters! The museum’s pottery classes are so popular that there’s often a waitlist with over 150 eager participants. The personalized instruction in both wheel throwing and hand building is provided in these intimate classes, which are limited to six students each. Whether you’re a novice or a seasoned clay artist, the studio’s welcoming environment encourages creativity and exploration. Many students become repeat pupils, drawn back by the joy of creating something tangible and beautiful with their own hands.
A Heartfelt Veterans Program
The museum isn’t just a place to view art—it’s also a place to heal. The Veterans Program at the Myrtle Beach Art Museum offers free art classes to veterans, providing a creative outlet for self-expression and a supportive community. The program has become a beloved part of the museum’s offerings, helping veterans find peace and purpose through art. It serves as a testament to the museum’s dedication to providing services to all members of the community and deepens the significance of its mission.
Kid-Friendly Fun That Engages Young Minds
A variety of activities are available to keep children engaged and entertained during their visit to the museum. Every summer, the museum organizes scavenger hunts that are associated with its current exhibits, thereby transforming the experience into an interactive adventure. The theme of this year’s hunt is the “Cultural Currency” exhibit, which engages children in the pursuit of hidden details within the artwork. It’s a fantastic way to introduce children to the world of art in a fun, hands-on way.
A Gift Shop Brimming with Local Talent
Before you leave, be sure to stop by the museum’s gift shop, as it is a treasure trove of locally made art and crafts. From pottery crafted by the museum’s students and instructors to distinctive jewelry and leather goods crafted by South Carolina artisans, the shop provides a meticulously curated selection of items that are ideal for bringing a piece of Myrtle Beach’s creative spirit home. Whether you are in search of a unique gift or a sentimental memento, you are certain to discover something special in this collection.
