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Art Abounds in Charleston's French Quarter
 It’s hard to resist the laid-back charm of this unique historical district.
Located within the original walled city, this area was named for the high concentration of French Huguenot merchants who began settling there in the late 17th century. Today, the French Huguenot Church, a beautiful Gothic-style edifice built in 1844 and the only remaining independent Huguenot church in the U.S., stands as a monument to the important role the French Huguenots played in Charleston’s earliest history.
The French Quarter is a lovely neighborhood in downtown Charleston bordered to the east and west by Charleston Harbor and Meeting Street; and to the north and south by Market Street and Tradd Street. It’s home to many historic buildings, including the Pink House Tavern built in 1712 and the Old Slave Mart built in 1859. Many of the city’s finest restaurants, as well as an eclectic array of shops, give the French Quarter a feel all its own.
 Art lovers from across the country know the French Quarter as a national arts destination featuring more than 30 art galleries, all within walking distance of one another. The works of more than 500 artists representing a diverse variety of styles and media, from traditional to contempory, can be found there in what has become the center of the visual arts community in Charleston.
Four times a year, the buzz of art and the taste of wine take over Charleston’s French Quarter, as all the galleries open their doors to offer food, wine and amazing art. Held seasonally the first Friday in March, May, October and December from 5 to 8 p.m., the Art Walks are sponsored by the French Quarter Gallery Association, the oldest visual arts organization in Charleston. Now a local tradition and renowned among visitors, these popular events encourage art lovers to stroll the cobbled streets and gas-lit alleyways in a fun, spirited atmosphere similar to a block party, and immerse themselves in this aspect of Charleston culture. The Art Walks are free and open to the public.
French Quarter Art Walk maps are available at the Charleston Visitor Center or at participating -galleries. For more information about the Art Walks and the galleries in the French Quarter, visit www.FrenchQuarterArts.com.
View our guide to Arts and Antiques shopping in Charleston.
Bocci's - a great Italian restaurant in historic downtown Charleston on Church Street. USA Today has called Bocci's one of the leading Italian restaurants in the United States. Bocci's serves full Italian fare, excellent wines, heavenly desserts and gourmet coffees all at affordable prices. Perfect for the whole family. Dinner nightly. |
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Original vintage poster art. A glimpse of European advertising at the turn of the 20th Century. Covering the walls of the gallery are large splashes of color inviting you to the Moulin Rouge, Monaco Grand Prix, films, exotic locations and more. Belle Epoch, Art Nouveau, Art Deco and contemporary periods. |
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Karen Hewitt Hagan’s paintings offer a compelling combination of dramatic light and rugged beauty. Favorite subjects include pristine coastal landscapes, boats drenched in sunlight, soulful dancers and romantic nudes. Visit Hagan Fine Art Gallery & Studio on State Street. Private shopping by appointment.
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