News Summary
The Aiken Artist Guild will host its annual art show with a gala reception on May 8 at the Aiken Center for the Arts. This month-long exhibition, running until June 12, will showcase diverse artworks from guild members. Renowned artist Gerard Erley will serve as the judge for the event, further underscoring the artistic talent in the community. In addition, Mike Kleiman has been recognized as the Artist of the Month, highlighting his contributions to local art.
Aiken Artist Guild Show Set to Open May 8
The Aiken Artist Guild will host its annual art show with a gala reception on Thursday, May 8, from 6-8 p.m. at the Aiken Center for the Arts. This event marks the opening of a month-long exhibition, which will run until June 12, showcasing a wide array of artworks created by guild members.
Artworks and Artists
The Aiken Artist Guild is a well-established organization in Aiken, South Carolina, known for its diverse representation of art forms and styles. The exhibition will feature pieces catering to various aesthetics, highlighting the unique artistic perspectives of the guild’s members. Having successfully exhibited and sold their works across the United States, these artists bring a wealth of experience to the show.
Judging and Recognition
Renowned South Carolina artist Gerard Erley will serve as the judge for this year’s art show. With an impressive portfolio that includes participation in over 300 juried exhibitions nationwide, Erley is recognized for his works displayed in numerous museums and galleries, making him a fitting choice to evaluate the artists’ submissions.
Location
The Aiken Center for the Arts, the venue for this gala reception and the subsequent exhibition, is located at 122 Laurens St., S.W. The center is an integral part of the Aiken community, fostering engagement in the arts through various events and programs.
Featured Artist of the Month
In conjunction with the Aiken Artist Guild Show, Mike Kleiman has been named Artist of the Month for the North Augusta Artists Guild. Originally from Newark, New Jersey, Kleiman graduated from Rutgers University with a degree in marketing. After retiring and moving to Aiken in 2005, he developed a passion for outdoor photography, focusing mainly on landscapes, horses, and nature scenes. His work notably captures the charm of Aiken’s horse district, Hitchcock Woods, and local architecture.
Awards and Community Involvement
Kleiman has participated in several local and regional exhibitions, earning multiple awards for his photography. He has also published his work in two coffee table books, “Aiken’s Equines” and “Aiken, As I See It,” contributing 50% of profits from these publications to Aiken Equine Rescue and Shriners Hospital. In addition to his artistic endeavors, Kleiman actively teaches photography and engages with the community through various art initiatives.
Aiken Center for the Arts Recognition
The Aiken Center for the Arts has recently received the 2023 Governor’s Award for Arts in the Organization Category, recognizing its commitment to enhancing access to the arts for all community members. Under the direction of executive director Caroline Gwinn, the center has implemented programs that benefit children, seniors, and individuals with special needs, ensuring a broad reach in engaging audiences with the arts.
Broadcast of the Award Ceremony
The Governor’s Award ceremony will be broadcast on South Carolina ETV on May 14 at 8 p.m., providing a platform to celebrate the contributions of organizations like the Aiken Center for the Arts.
Conclusion
With the opening of the Aiken Artist Guild Show, the community is invited to explore the creativity and passion of local artists. The gala reception on May 8 promises an exciting evening, and the exhibition runs until June 12, allowing ample opportunity for art enthusiasts and the general public to attend and appreciate the featured works.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Aiken, SC: A Month Packed with Community Events in May 2025
Additional Resources
- Post and Courier: Aiken Artist Guild Show Opens May 8
- Augusta Chronicle: North Augusta Artists Guild
- Post and Courier: Aiken Center for the Arts Receives State Award
- Wikipedia: Aiken, South Carolina
- Encyclopedia Britannica: South Carolina
Author: STAFF HERE AIKEN
The AIKEN STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREAiken.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Aiken, Aiken County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Aiken Horse Show, Aiken Bluegrass Festival, and polo matches at Whitney Field. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Aiken Chamber of Commerce and the Aiken County Historical Museum, plus leading businesses in manufacturing and tourism that power the local economy such as Bridgestone and the Aiken County Visitors Center. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAiken.com, HEREBeaufort.com, HEREChapin.com, HERECharleston.com, HEREClinton.com, HEREColumbia.com, HEREGeorgetown.com, HEREGreenwood.com, HEREGreenville.com, HEREHiltonHead.com, HEREIrmo.com, HEREMyrtleBeach.com, HERENewberry.com, HERERockHill.com, and HERESpartanburg.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into South Carolina's dynamic landscape.
