Arts in Bloom 25th Anniversary Evening – April 2026

The Arts in Bloom benefit evening, celebrating the 25th anniversary of Arts, etc. was a great success attended by community members, local leaders, and supporters. Held at the Kiawah Island River Clubhouse, it was an elegant spring-inspired event with a wonderful dinner and beautiful flower arrangements sourced from local Johns Island gardens, including gorgeous azaleas.

The evening began with performances by students in the Haut Gap Middle School Orchestra, the senior guitarist at St. Johns High School, and the Johns Island Elementary School Choir and Melodica Ensemble. The talented performers highlighted the impact of Arts, etc. programing, which is designed to expand access to arts education through in-school programs, partnerships and opportunities for underserved youth. There was also an extensive gallery of art by students in the schools of the sea islands.

President Karen Curth opened the evening by thanking everyone for their support.  Opening remarks by past board member and long-time member Marsha Gewirtzman related the history of the organization over 25 years. The original founders of Arts, etc. were honored in a video, including Ruth Baker, Cathy Marino, and Ellen Walkley.  Past board member Jodi Rush gave a wonderful introduction to the featured speaker Charlton Singleton,of the Charleston Jazz Orchestra and Ranky Tanky.  He recounted amusing stories which illustrated his development as a musician and performer, beginning at a young age in school.  His first experience at Kiawah Island was when he was part of a performance on the island in which he played a jester.  He fell in love with performing and the arts during that experience.

The presenting sponsor, First National Bank, was well represented at the dinner, as well as school liaisons, and members of the Program Partners, especially the Charleston Jazz orchestra.

The Silent Auction of art by local artists, experiences and curated packages such as golf, jewelry and spa items contributed significantly toward Arts, etc.’s annual fundraising goals.  Enthusiastic bidders were online as well as present that evening. Many of the artists were in attendance, including Mary Whyte, a strong supporter of arts education. Dessert and lively music during the closing minutes of the Silent Auction wrapped up the wonderful evening.

Donations are still being accepted at https://www.kiawahartsetc.org/members-and-friends.

Summary provided by Martha Zink. Photography by Jeffery J. Davis.