Christmas in July to Open in Florence on July 7th
Guyton's Ornaments to Remain on Display Through July 28th
The Florence Regional Arts Alliance will host an opening reception for Christmas In July—Florence In Retrospect by Stephen Guyton on Thursday, June 7 from 6:00 until 8:00 p.m. The exhibition will showcase the 17 Christmas Ornaments created by Stephen Guyton since 1974, as well as a few other memorable surprises.
Guyton is an internationally known artist distinguished. His flair for capturing the natural world and the landmarks that are nearest and dearest to our hearts is what seperates Guyton from other artists. As a child, he found it easiest to express his thoughts through whimsical paintings or photography. Encouraged by this parents with arts lessons at a very young age, today he is fascinated by the changing lights and colors of a sunrise or a sunset.
Christmas In July will be on exhibition at Gallery 412 (Florence Regional Arts Alliance, 412 S. Dargan Street in Florence) through Thursday, July 28 and may be seen Monday through Friday from 1:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. or by special appointment. All 17 Christmas Ornaments are still available for sale and can be purchased during the exhibition.
A native of Florence, Guyton has been raised in the traditions and culture of the Pee Dee. His family were bridge builders, restaurants owners, and employees of the Atlantic Coast Line (now CSX and Amtrak). In his youth Stephen meet many travelers, including celebrities, writers, artists, and renowned personalities that emerged from the trains that once were the bustling heart of Florence. This love and pride for the history, places, and people of the Pee Dee gave inspiration to his vista of artwork.
At an early age he showed a propensity for light and shadow, colors and hues, paper and brushes, the world of art coupled with the world of the familiar and the curious. His propensity was encouraged by art classes at a very young age.
In 1994 the Pee Dee Center asked Guyton if he would give his time and talents for a project that would benefit the residents of the center. It was the perfect fit as the project combined his love of community with his love of art. That project, the annual Florence Christmas Ornament continues today depicting local icons, institutions, and venues.
Guyton has designed other community projects, including the logo for Crime Watch communities and the Florence City centennial law enforcement badge. He has created artwork for several area churches from baptismal scenery to architectural renderings.
Guyton works in his studio when not traveling and continues to contribute his artistic gift for various fundraisers and the betterment of his community.
Pee Dee Arts & Culture is dedicated to promoting the Arts and cultural activities in the Pee Dee Region of Eastern South Carolina. To have your event, program or class promoted, email Bruce Douglas at peedeearts@gmail.com.
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