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Lake Murray Country’s vibrant arts offerings

January 24, 2023

Reading Time: 3 minutes

Photo Credit: Cayce River Arts District Mural by Artist Ijá Monèt

Lake Murray Country is home to a wide variety of arts, from colorful murals and arts districts to national touring musicians and unique festivals – there is something for everyone. Newberry, South Carolina has redefined itself as an arts town. Home to the South Carolina Clay Conference, the Newberry Arts Center hosts prestigious potters from all over the world each fall. Explore the Cayce River Arts District with its colorful murals and sculptures crafted by talented local artists. Located near the Cayce Riverwalk Park the arts district is a must-see during your visit!  From national touring Broadway musicals at the Koger Center for the Arts to the Village Square Theatre where young thespians are learning valuable life skills, theatrical arts abound in Lake Murray Country.

Marguerite Palmer, Arts Program Coordinator City of Newberry and Director of the Newberry Arts Center (NAC)

The Newberry Arts Center offers programs for all ages, including classes and workshops led by professional artists. NAC is a fun and safe place to learn, gather and explore art with friends, old and new. NAC offers various events open to the public throughout the year. These include the SC ClayCon Pottery Sale, Plein Air events and exhibitions, K-12 Newberry County School District Art Show, the City of Newberry Gingerbread competition, and more!

In 2015 NAC created the South Carolina Clay Conference (SC ClayCon) and took up the mantle of “Moving Clay Forward.” The conference brings together potters and clay artists in SC and the surrounding region for education, evaluation, and celebration of the many techniques to which clay lends itself. The three-day conference aims by design to recognize and reveal to its attendees the influences and heritage of clay in South Carolina, as well as to encourage ongoing conversations about the future of clay in the region in which we live. Look for the fall 2023 date coming soon!

Learn more about the Newberry Arts Center’s classes and workshops and stop by to purchase artwork made by a local artist or one of NAC’s students or teachers! Contact the Newberry Arts Center for more information about the South Carolina Clay Conference.
Address: 1200 Main Street, Newberry, SC 29108
Phone: 803-321-1022
Storefront Hours: Tuesday – Friday: 10 – 5 PM

Mayor Elise Partin, City of Cayce

“No matter what time of the year it is, there are a number of great things to do in and around the Cayce area.” The City of Cayce River Arts District, in the heart of historic Cayce, is a perfect hub and doorway to all things creative in the city! Located where State Street and Frink Street meet, the city has been actively engaged in revitalizing this area, specifically through “previtalization” efforts. This process, appropriately described as “the art of what’s possible,” has already led to the redevelopment of several derelict and underutilized properties into new and thriving businesses and has led to the development of an active artist group. The City partnered with local artists to create compelling and beautiful artistic installments that capture the imagination and inspire creativity. Paid for, in large part, from community and national arts grants this project, now attraction connects people and places through the arts. The area has seen an increase in property values, public safety, and overall quality of life. Take a walk and explore the Cayce River Arts District – a must-see during your visit!

Enjoy art studios, the Riverwalk, craft beer, pottery classes, brunch + coffee, and live music, all on State Street.
Learn more about the City of Cayce’s River Arts District.

Maddie and Hudson Freeman, Junior Company Actors at Village Square Theatre

The dynamic sibling duo, Maddie and Hudson Freeman bring their passion for the stage to their local community theater. Both avid actors, they relish the thrill of performing in front of a live audience and have a deep commitment to the community. Whether it’s a classic play or a contemporary production, these two talented performers always give their all and leave audiences wanting more. With their love for the art and dedication to the community, Maddie and Hudson Freeman are sure to continue making a positive impact on the theater world. They credit their theatre training as helping to provide valuable life lessons and help prepare them in their careers down the road.

Village Square Theatre is Lexington’s only community playhouse offering 6 shows per year including junior productions, literary dramas, and musicals. The theatre has served the community for over 60 years and continues to enhance the quality of life in the Lexington community.

Learn more about Village Square Theatre’s current season and purchase Tickets at the Box Office.
Address: 105 Caughman Rd, Lexington, SC 29072
Phone: 803-359-1436

Capital City/Lake Murray Country is the official source for all things Lake Murray Country. Find information on attractions, dining, hotels, outdoor recreation, fishing, golf, and events to plan your next trip. Explore the “Top Southern Destinations” of Columbia, Lexington, Newberry, and Saluda. For more information about the region visit LakeMurrayCountry.com or call 803-781-5940 | 1-866-SC-Jewel.