University Place Gallery set to host inaugural exhibit

University Place Gallery, Francis Marion University’s newest art gallery in downtown Florence, will host its opening display beginning Sept. 3 with the Visual Arts Alumni Juried Exhibition.  

The exhibit is free and open to the public and will feature recent works from Francis Marion University Visual Arts alumni, including contemporary paintings, drawings, photography, ceramics, and fiber art. 

The Visual Arts Alumni Juried Exhibition will run through Oct. 18. It will conclude with a closing reception for artists, friends and the public on Oct. 18 from 6 to 8 p.m. The exhibit consists of 63  works created by 35 FMU Visual Arts alumni dating back from 1994 to present. 

The University Place Gallery is located within FMU’s new University Place building, located at 142 N. Dargan Street in the former L.S. Rainwater Building. The almost 17,000-square foot building was gifted to the University by the City of Florence. Renovations were funded through a generous grant from the Drs. Bruce and Lee Foundation.

The renovations updated and modernized the building’s infrastructure while retaining its early 20th century character. Original brick walls are exposed, high ceilings are plentiful and many original features have been retained, resulting in a stunning space.

The first floor gallery is expected to become an important addition to the region’s visual arts offerings. It will also be available to the public as rental space for events.

FMU’s Kelley Center for Business Development will operate its business incubator on the second floor. The third floor houses office space.

University Place Gallery opens on Sept. 3. Gallery hours are Tuesday-Thursday from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m., Friday from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m., and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

 For more information on the Visual Arts Alumni Juried Exhibition or the gallery, contact University Place Gallery Coordinator Colleen Critcher at ccritcher@fmarion.edu.