Saturday, August 20, 2011

South Carolina State Parks Artist's Residency sketches







































































South Carolina State Parks honored me as Artist in Residence at


Keowee-Toxaway State Natural Area this summer. You really need to visit this gem--

fantastic views on mountain hikes from easy to strenuous at your doorstep; right in the middle of gorges and lake country with good fishing and more wonderful waterfalls than you can see in a lifetime--many 50-100 feet high.
I always recommend staying in state parks rather than hotels and K-TSNA confirms that; really a value (like all of SC state Parks) and with a great location. The cabin was very comfortable and big enough for extended family/friends (sleeps 10). Truly something for everyone (we had toddler to seniors with us): history and natural resources exhibits, art museums and galleries, Clemson University and the beautiful City of Greeneville are all easy day trips.


We really recommend camping here (either with hook-ups and clean, modern showers/facilities or primitive campsites on the lake's edge). Best to rent the cabin for at least a week--a real bargain for this area, especially if you share with family/friends.


Park Managers Kevin Blanton and Assistant Park Manager Michael Trotter are very helpful and know the area well. Accurate maps and printed info (including driving tours) are available at the Visitors' Center.


I'll just post a few of my 31 on-location sketches.
There's a lot more to do in the area than we managed this summer; all the things we did enjoy is too long a list to blog. We'd love to see the fall colors and the spring blossoming in this area--works by other artists show how unique this area is in each season. If we can't get back this fall, we are certainly going to SC next year!

Get more info/make reservations for South Carolina State Parks at