Call And Response at the Halsey Gallery

Today I walked the four blocks from my house to the craft fair at the Music Farm, where I discovered a packed house of artists, crafters, and shoppers.  There was something for everyone in the wide array of unique jewelry, vintage clothing and handi- crafts.  Unfortunately, the craft fair was just for one day, but based on the response, my guess is that this event will reoccur.  Afterward, I again battled the sweltering day, which felt like grandma's attic, and walked over to the Halsey Institute, where I was incredibly impressed by the Call and Response show.  Nick Cave and Phyllis Galembo collaborated with costumes and photos to create an incredibly strong visual exhibit.  This show is such a score for the visual arts component of Spoleto USA which is typically Spoleto's weakest element.   This free, donations appreciated show and it is a great reason to check out the College of Charleston's beautiful new arts building The Halsey Institute of Contemporary Art!  The show is meticulously created, perfectly curated, and visually stunning.  A bonus is the student show in the adjacent hall, where a big surprise is the good quality work from the print, and photography students.  A complete let down however are the student paintings which lead viewers to ascertain that there is no painting instruction happening at the College of Charleston.  Go check the Call and Response exhibit out for yourself and buy a piece of art with some coins from the Art-o-Matic vending machine.