Dataw Visual Arts Club History / Timeline
2023
Our organization achieved remarkable milestones that showcased our commitment to fostering creativity and community engagement. Throughout the year, we curated three sensational events with the invaluable support of our vendors: Fools Folly in the Spring, Oktoberfest in the Fall, and the festive Mistletoe Market in November. These provided platforms for artists to showcase their work and brought our community together to celebrate art and culture. Our dedication to education and collaboration was evident in the diverse range of year-long classes, workshops, and collaborations we offered. From the Card Club to Open Studio, Mixed Media, and the Mudslingers pottery group, there was something for everyone to explore and enjoy. We provided numerous classes in various mediums, including acrylic, watercolor, pastels, and even specialties like pumpkin painting and pet portraits. Furthermore, our Quarterly Exhibits saw a record number of entries in July, accompanied by an impressive volume of sales, highlighting the thriving artistic talent within our community. We also enriched our members’ experiences with insightful interviews and articles by Marie Doyon and Kathy McShane, continuing to deepen our connection to the arts. Additionally, we undertook initiatives to enhance our online presence, including a new website domain name and an updated logo, thanks to the diligent efforts of our team. With a record-breaking membership surpassing the 400 mark and record exhibitor count and attendance at the Mistletoe Market, 2023 was undoubtedly a year of growth and accomplishment for our organization. We were privileged to host distinguished speakers like Brian Seal, who shared invaluable insights on “Art and the Law,” further enriching our members’ understanding and appreciation of the arts. As we reflect on the past year, it’s evident that our organization remains dedicated to fostering a vibrant and inclusive arts community, catering to enthusiasts of all levels and backgrounds. Jennnifer…
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2022
We are excited to be celebrating the 20-year anniversary of VAC’s inception. Please visit the VAC “History” tab and click on “History Overview” to read how VAC was conceived and became a DIC-sanctioned club. Jennifer Ethier, 10 Jan 2023
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2021
The Visual Arts Club’s mission is dedicated to encouraging artistic expression and furthering knowledge and appreciation of the arts for its members. We ended 2021 with 384 memberships, 64 of which were new members. We implemented an auto-renewal program by billing members’ accounts directly. For the first time in over ten years, for 2022, we raised our annual dues by $5 to $20 individual and $30 for family. The best deal on Dataw! In the last four years, our membership has grown by 45%. Our growth is a testament to what VAC offers. Even during the tough times of Covid, we found ways to give members the opportunity to create and appreciate art. Click through to read my full report. Marj Shymske, January 17, 2022
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2020
2020 turned out to be a challenging one for VAC, as it was for other Dataw clubs and residents. The year started well, launched by our annual meeting on January 21st. Special guest and local artist Aki Kato participated in a fireside chat with outgoing VAC President Marj Shymske; their conversation was inspiring on many levels. By March, the pandemic hit and we went into lockdown mode. Only slowed us down a little.
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2019
The Visual Arts Club ended 2019 with over 300 Members including our first “junior” member at the ripe old age of 14! New residents, expansion of our offerings as well as new artist instructors drew many new members.
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2018
Photography was reinvented as Photography Club, attracting 35 members; our first Art Journey explored the many aspects of art appreciation; a spring Art Market was held in the gazebo; technology took another leap with appointment of a techy to the VAC Board; a blog was initiated.
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2017
2017 was a tremendous year for VAC; we broadened our membership, expanded our workshops and learning opportunities and worked closely with other organizations on Dataw Island.
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2016
First “Dataw Art Crawl”- six homes toured, followed by reception at CC. Over $1200 raised for the Lady’s Island Middle School Art Program.
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2015
VAC Library relocates to conference room. VAC participated in refurbishing of the Community Center. Collaborated with Garden Club in Beaufort Festival of Trees.
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2014
VAC celebrates 10 years! Over 100 people attend the “10” Exhibit celebration. Card Club was born. Diné en Blanc held at the Cannery. $1400 was raised for St. Helena Elementary School through the Giving Tree at the Holiday Boutique. 267 Members
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2012 – 2013
“Interpretation: The Art of the Quilt” exhibit held in collaboration with Dataw Island quilters.
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2011 – 2012
Worked with Sports & Rec Committee rearranging and “re-arting” the atrium and hallways. Held first book review sessions.
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2010 – 2011
Celebrated Dataw’s 25th year anniversary with open house art exhibit and demonstrations in A&C room. Rolled out VAC Website.
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2008 – 2010
Purchased pottery kiln, TV and DVD player and held first movie night.
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2006 – 2007
First Artisan Fair held in the Community Center (birth of Holiday Boutique).
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2005 – 2006
Worked with DIC Board to refresh Pub with original art. Membership reached 71
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2004 – 2005
Creation of logo, established permanent presence in the Arts and Crafts Room at CC. Held first annual meeting January 2005.
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2003 – 2004
Acceptance as DIC Club, election of officers, formation of subcommittees. Membership dues = $10 PP per year. The visualarts@islc.net list serve was created.
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