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How local painter Julia Deckman is fostering a creative community in her Riverland Terrace studio

How local painter Julia Deckman is fostering a creative community in her Riverland Terrace studio
July 2022
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Plus her upcoming solo exhibition at Hed Hi Media



Julia Deckman in her studio.

A College of Charleston grad, contemporary painter Julia Deckman started out displaying her work in local markets and galleries, serving on the board of Redux Contemporary Art Center from 2018 to 2020. After outgrowing her studio and reflecting on post-quarantine business goals, she leased a multi-use space on James Island in August 2020, opening to the public in November. 

Knowing the studio was too large for just herself, Deckman created a space for other artists to showcase their work in a way that is “elevated from the markets.” Inside, patrons can browse fine and contemporary art pieces or view cohesive collections on display in the In Situ exhibition gallery, which has been booked for two years. “My favorite time is the installation when artists come in with family and friends to see their work,” she says.

Additionally, Deckman carries local products from other visual artists and jewelry designers, focusing on small businesses without online shops. She also acquired a liquor license to sell wine and beer on-site. “Entertaining is a major component of what I do from my studio space,” she says. “The addition of the Stono Bottle Shop has improved my ability to host and serve my community.”

Keep up-to-date on Deckman’s art exhibits, pop-ups, and monthly creative workshops, with topics ranging from love letter writing to floral styling, at juliadeckmanstudio.com. Deckman’s upcoming solo exhibit, “The Choreography of Color,” opens on September 10 at Hed Hi Media on King Street.