Ballantyne Magazine covers news, events, real estate, restaurants, shopping, health, schools and business in the upscale Ballantyne Area of Charlotte, NC.
Greenville's reincarnation as an arts mecca is due in large part to the extensive works of South Carolina painter and sculptor Jasper Johns and American realist painter Andrew Wyeth.
Banners and signage in Falls Park promote Artisphere. This year's event is May 11-13.
BALLANTYNE GREENVILLE Ballantyne to Greenville SC - 112 miles - 2 hrs., 1 min.
Artisphere features a wide variety of arts at the annual festival.
GREENVILLE, S.C. PERSONIFIES THE NEW SOUTH DONE RIGHT. The heart of this once aging mill town has undergone a renaissance that makes it an ideal destination for foodies, museum-goers, arts aficionados and outdoor enthusiasts alike. Best of all, everything to see and do is within walking distance or accessible via a free trolley. Add to this the scenic Reedy River that runs right through town — 345-foot- long Liberty Bridge over a gushing waterfall — and you have a good-time getaway no matter which way you turn. Spring is a perfect time to visit, especially if you like fine arts and crafts. The weekend of May 11-13, the city hosts its annual Artisphere, a free three- day outdoor extravaganza of visual, performing and culinary arts, set in the historic West End.
SPRING 2012
The centerpiece of this nationally recognized fine arts festival is a juried artist show of 17 media categories, including painting, watercolor, ceramics, fiber, sculpture, woodworking, mixed media, jewelry, metal works and photography — with all work for sale. In addition to Artist Row, Artisphere features three stages with ongoing performances of dancers, musicians and entertainers, as well as demonstrations by local chefs and artists. In the midst of all this, visitors can indulge food cravings at sample booths sponsored by Greenville's top restaurants. The family-friendly festival also caters to children with a Kidsphere area where they can craft gifts for Mother's Day. Kerry Murphy, executive director of Artisphere, advises that the event
Mary's Cottage offers a savory heirloom tomato salad.
Soby's is a popular hangout in downtown Greenville.
Glasswork is part of Artisphere's visual array. BALLANTYNE MAGAZINE 87