Museums in Historic Downtown (Charleston)

The Citadel Archives & Museum

Located on The Citadel Military College campus, home to the historic Lords of Discipline, this museum covers the history of The Military College of South Carolina and Corps of Cadets from its founding in 1842 to present day. Presented in chronological order, the exhibits include photographs, documents, cadet uniforms and arms. Citadel rings from 1895 to the present make an impressive display in the foyer, accompanied by photographs of Citadel men who lost their lives in war. Archive documents include letters, diaries, reports, photographs, films and videotapes. The entrance to the museum is located on the south side of the Daniel Library building. Admission is free.

Avery Research Center

The main mission of this research center is to collect and preserve the rich history and culture of African Americans in Charleston and South Carolina. Established in 1985, the museum has documented the history of the slave trade, civil and women's rights movement. The center maintains an archive of rich material which is used by researchers, scholars and public alike. A cultural center and a gift shop are additional attractions. The center actively sponsors conferences and exhibits to promote Afro-American culture and history. A number of promotional events and study programs are held periodically.

Alterman Studios Gallery

Located in downtown Charleston, Alterman Studios Gallery was founded in 1980 and measures 6,000 square-feet, making it the largest photography complex. This complex has the Alterman Gallery, Jack Alterman's professional photography services, and the Charleston Center for Photography and Custom Services of Black & White, Copy, and Digital services. They also promote and teach the craft of photography and offer instruction for photographers at all levels of expertise. They also hold workshops on special topics like digital printing, wedding photography and studio lighting that helps add to a photographers skills.

Gibbes Museum of Art

Over 10,000 pieces of art are featured in Gibbes Museum of Arts permanent collection. The collection focuses on fine American art with an emphasis on original Charleston works. Over 300 years of Americas history is represented through paintings, prints, drawings, photographs, portraits and sculpture. A remarkable array of Japanese wood block prints is on display as well as paintings by such noted artists as Washington Allston, Gilbert Stuart and America's first professional female artist, Henrietta Johnston.

The Charleston Renaissance Gallery

Visiting an art gallery such as this will prove to be a memorable experience—at the Charleston Renaissance, you'll discover fine art at its best. This is the only principal gallery that focuses on works of the American South, including sculptures, sketches, and oil canvases. It not only displays pieces by local artists, but also collectibles from around the world. Exhibitions are held several times in the course of each year, so visit the website for further details.

Smith-Killian Fine Art

Smith-Killian is the place to go for realism and color. Everything from landscapes to architecture and still life are expressed through paint, photography and sculpture. The gallery features works by Betty Anglin Smith and her children: Jennifer Lynn Smith, Shannon Smith, Tripp Smith. The work of Darrell Davis and Martin Gates is also displayed.

Wells Gallery

Located besidesGibbes Museum of Art, Wells features works of nearly 20 artists. Each month, through various events, the gallery showcases its wide range of art on display. Featuring landscapes from local Low Country, the various works of art on display are also up for grabs. Such is Well's growing success that it now has 3 different outlets across the States. Call for payment details.

Gallery Chuma

The Low Country inhabitants of South Carolina, commonly known as the Gullahs, in order to promote their culture and history started the Chuma Gallery. By hosting a variety of paintings and artworks which derive deep influences from Creole scriptures, the gallery provides impetus to talented Charleston natives. Where there is quality art, praises aren't far away. Not only has the art in Chuma been well received by seasoned players in the field but their timely jazz performances and other side events draws attention from a fair few quarters. Check website for such similar ongoing events.

Artizom, a Frame Gallery

Artizom is a frame gallery that offers professional help to frame fine art, photographs, prints, posters, textiles, and other collectibles. The frames are chosen with care so that they compliment the artwork you have bought. It has two branches this one is in downtown close to Ansonborough shopping center. In their gallery they have a large selection of quality moldings and their catalog's can be be seen elsewhere.

The Verner Gallery

Located on a corner that is sometimes referred to as the center of the Charleston Renaissance, this is the oldest contemporary fine arts gallery in Charleston. Once home and studio to Elizabeth O'Neill Verner, the gallery now houses beautiful originals and reproductions. Oils, pastels and etchings from such artists as Daphne vom Baur, Lonnie E. Stewart and Manning Williams are on display as well as etchings and pastels by Mrs. Verner herself.

Children's Museum of the Lowcountry

Open since 2003 in what was once part of Charleston's 19th century railroad station complex, it now serves as a magnet to curious children ages 3 months to 12 years (and adults who accompany them) to "explore, play, discover, learn and create." With eight interactive exhibits, the museum's aim is to develop a child's thinking, motor and problem solving skills. There is also a special area for infants and toddlers. Children's classes include science, nature, cooking, gardening, history, drama, and art, as well as story time, camps and field trips. It's great fun for the whole family. Located adjacent to the Downtown Visitor Center, parking is available in a multi-level parking facility. - Natasha Lawrence

City Gallery at Waterfront Park

City Gallery at the Waterfront Park is a venue for showcasing works by regional, national and international artists. The gallery also gives opportunities to upcoming artists to showcase their creativity on canvas. This is a great platform for art lovers as they can learn from well-known artists whose works of art are displayed here. Operated by the Charleston Office of Cultural Affairs, the gallery hosts many art events and exhibitions like 'Welded Sculptures' and 'Wild Things and Wonder'.