Current / Exhibitions
John C. Traynor / Summertime August 1- September 1
Summertime, a captivating solo exhibition featuring the latest oil paintings by master artist John C. Traynor. Renowned for his atmospheric realism and rich use of color, Traynor brings the warmth, light, and nostalgia of the season to life through two of his most celebrated subjects: idyllic seaside towns and exquisite still life’s.
The exhibition offers a visual journey to the coast, capturing the unique spirit of historic shoreline villages. Traynor’s seaside landscapes are alive with the movement of water, the glare of midday sun on weathered shingles, and the soft, cool shadows of late afternoon. Whether depicting boats docked in quiet harbors or sun-drenched coastal pathways, his loose yet precise brushwork evokes the salty air and timeless charm of New England and European coastal life.
Complementing these expansive outdoor scenes are Traynor’s intimate still life paintings. Crafted with the deep richness of the Old Masters style, these interior pieces celebrate seasonal abundances. Vibrant summer blooms freshly picked fruit, and antique vessels are bathed in dramatic, natural light. Each still life serves as a quiet meditation on texture, form, and the fleeting beauty of everyday objects.
Together, these two bodies of work create a harmonious dialogue between the wide-open energy of the coast and the peaceful stillness of the indoors. Summertime is an invitation to slow down and immerse oneself in the radiant light and emotional warmth that define John C. Traynor’s extraordinary vision.
Upcoming/ Exhibitions
Brooke Major and Mark Sylva / Form & Fluidity September 4th - October 1st
The public is invited to celebrate the show at the opening reception on Friday, September 4th, from 5:00 to 8:00 PM. The artists will be flying in to attend the reception, giving collectors and art enthusiasts a unique opportunity to meet them in person and discuss their techniques.
Form & Fluidity bridges two distinct worlds and artistic philosophies. Brooke Major redefines traditional painting by treating thick oil paint as a sculptural medium. Major uses palette knives to build heavy, dramatic textures that rise off the canvas. Her monochromatic reliefs explore the powerful anatomy of equestrian life alongside the historic splendor of French landmarks and early American architecture. Without the distraction of color, her work relies entirely on how the natural light interacts with the chiseled ridges of her canvases.
In vibrant contrast, Mark Sylva’s dramatic nautical landscapes capture the ceaseless energy, depth, and shifting moods of the open ocean. Sylva’s mastery of light and color brings the maritime world to life, rendering the transparent crests of crashing waves, deep coastal waters, and the glowing, atmospheric light of ocean horizons. His fluids brushwork and rich color palette provide a brilliant counterweight to Major’s structured, monochromatic reliefs.
Jeff Jamison / The Life Around Us November 6th - December 3rd
One of the most inspiring aspects of Jamison’s art is that he’s not painting reality, he’s painting moments. The subtle intimacy found in Jamison’s work is romantic, as expressed by his figures huddled under umbrellas. He says he likes painting umbrellas because not only are they a great subject, “It’s exciting to be in the street with the rain and lights. It’s a graphic element from a technical standpoint. The umbrellas frame the couple, it’s a unique opportunity from a technical standpoint.”
The Life Around Us, debuts Friday, December 6th from 5:00 to 8:00 PM at Ella W. Richardson Fine Art at 58 Broad St. in Charleston. This exhibition will coincide with the celebration of the gallery's 25th anniversary. The show features beautiful street scenes, beaches, figures, and restaurants.The opening reception will include small bites, refreshments, and the chance to meet with the artist.