Local artist Chelsea Edwards draws inspiration from the energy of the outdoors
By Lorne Chambers | editor
Whether it’s a song, a movie, a book, or a painting, art has the power to transport us. And with chilly weather here in the Lowcountry, it’s nice to be transported to a warmer where and when. That’s exactly what local artist Chelsea Edwards is able to do with her landscapes, through her use of color, light, and movement.
While Edwards has a loves for visual art, she admits that her first love is nature. “Each of my marsh landscapes is inspired by the color and energy of the outdoors and strives to reflect the tranquility that nature brings,” says Edwards, who is Straight To Art’s artist of the month at The Schoolhouse for December.
This particular collection of her works is a combination of abstract palette studies on linen, coupled with contemporary and peaceful marsh landscapes.”
“I love how the more calming marshscapes pair with the bold abstract studies on natural linen canvas,” says Edwards who primarily paints in oils but says she also enjoys using mixed media such as gouache and chalk pastels in her work.
Edwards grew up in Atlanta, but studied Studio Arts and Arts Management at the College of Charleston. “I have always loved the city and ended up planting my roots here, along with my husband, Tyler, and dog, Cedar,” she says.
But her journey into the world of visual art began long before she took her first class at the College of Charleston. “I have been creating my whole life and have enjoyed art since a very young age. Growing up, I took every art class that I could, so when I went to college it only seemed natural that I would study Art,” says Edwards. “For me, being an artist is an opportunity to pull together all the things that I enjoy doing — from seeing the world in a unique way, to creating something original, and ultimately seeing it find a special place in someone’s home or life.”
As Straight To Art’s artist of the month, Edward’s work will be on display through the end of the year at the Schoolhouse, which is located at 720 Magnolia Road. But Edwards is already looking ahead and wondering what 2019 might have in store for her as an artist. “I am always challenging myself to keep creating and growing as an artist. In the New Year, I anticipate taking on a new series of work, along with commissions and creative collaborations with other artists and entrepreneurs!
In lieu of an artists reception this month there will be a special Merry Marketplace at The Schoolhouse held from 6-9 p.m. on Monday, Dec. 17 which will feature Edwards paintings as well as local vendors and artisans.
