Charleston Parks Conservancy, Gibbes Partner to Beautify Museum’s Courtyard Garden
CHARLESTON, S.C. – Visitors and even locals may not realize the garden behind the Gibbes Museum of Art is open to the public as part of the Charleston Gateway Walk. Now, with help from the Charleston Parks Conservancy, the garden is getting a facelift with the hope more people will explore this hidden Charleston gem.
The Conservancy has partnered with the Women’s Council of the Carolina Art Association, an auxiliary group that supports the Gibbes, to enhance and maintain the Gibbes courtyard garden. The groups will conduct their first workday from 9 a.m. to noon on Monday, July 19.
The Conservancy and volunteers from the Women’s Council will add a mix of shrubs and perennials to the space to accommodate shady and sunny areas and keep the garden flowering nine months out of the year.
“This is a perfect example of how the Conservancy works – partnering with other organizations to beautify gardens and parks around the city of Charleston,” says Jim Martin, executive director of the Conservancy. “A beautiful garden is truly a work of art, so it makes perfect sense for us to join with our premier local art museum.”
The Gibbes courtyard garden is one of few public spaces on the Charleston Gateway Walk, which connects private and public garden areas between Archdale Street and Philadelphia Alley on the Charleston peninsula.
“We’re delighted that the Charleston Parks Conservancy has adopted the Gibbes courtyard as one of its ongoing projects. Historically the Women’s Council has been involved in beautifying the museum facility and grounds. This is an opportunity for Women’s Council members to work with skilled horticulturalists to enhance our garden space for public enjoyment,” notes Angela Mack, executive director of the Gibbes Museum of Art.
About the Charleston Parks Conservancy
Headed by prominent horticulturalist Jim Martin, the Charleston Parks Conservancy is a nonprofit organization dedicated to further beautifying City of Charleston parks and green spaces. With the help of its Park Angels volunteer force, the Conservancy seeks to rally community support and pride behind the effort to create a lasting movement. For more information about or to support the Charleston Parks Conservancy, please visit www.charlestonparksconservancy.org.
About Gibbes Museum of Art
Established as the Carolina Art Association in 1858, the Gibbes Museum of Art opened its doors to the public in 1905. Located in Charleston’s historic district, the Gibbes houses a premier collection of over 10,000 works, principally American with a Charleston or Southern connection and presents special exhibitions throughout the year. In addition, the museum offers an extensive complement of public programming and educational outreach initiatives that serve the community by stimulating creative expression and improving the region’s superb quality of life.