The Arts Tell a Story in Greenwood

Greenwood is rich in beauty and inspiration! Our robust arts community reflects our unique ways of coming together to welcome everyone on a journey of discovery and creativity. Learn about six Greenwood residents who tell their stories of growth through the arts.

Art has a way of enriching the lives of everyone it touches. Just as every work of art tells a story, every story has a way of growing and evolving with every person who becomes part of the journey.

As part of our Stories of Greenwood series, we invite you to learn more about the Greenwood arts community—and the driving forces behind it.

The Path Turns to Art

Woodworker John Pillman’s artistic journey took him from childhood hobbyist to corporate CEO to accomplished creator of beautiful pieces that help make life better for others. After his retirement as President and CEO of Velux, John returned to the woodworking craft his father had taught him, tapping into the inspiration offered by the beauty of his waterfront home.

“I’m not an artist,” John insists, yet his wooden creations showcase a sensibility—and ability—comfortable with intricate patterns and combinations of colors, shapes and materials. John’s pieces have been auctioned as part of fundraisers for local charities.

His work has also been shown and sold as part of the Earth Into Art Exhibition at the Arts Center of Greenwood as well as at local businesses like Main & Maxwell. If you stop by Flynn’s on Maxwell for live music and spirits, you’ll see John’s table designed specifically for patrons who use wheelchairs.

Award-winning videographer David Holloway is another local who found his artistic calling later in life. Although he had always loved the storytelling power of movies, he spent years in the real estate business. 

After seeing the potential for video in real estate, he began to learn the skills he needed to learn his new craft. As he acquired the skills he needed, he also developed a passion for storytelling that led him to leave real estate behind and become a full-time storyteller. Today, he is especially committed to showcasing the beauty of the area’s parks, greenways and waterfront, and to supporting other artists of all kinds in their pursuits.

Setting the Stage for Everyone

The performing arts also have a strong presence in Greenwood’s vibrant arts scene. Stephen Gilbert and Lisa Sanders have a passion for community theater as a vehicle for creativity and inclusivity. Executive Directors of the Greenwood Community Theatre and Greenwood Performing Arts, respectively, Stephen and Lisa  have brought more than high-quality plays and performances to Greenwood. 

They also work hard to involve children and adults with disabilities in the excitement of live theater. The Penguin Project and I Can Dance are just two of the ways they create opportunities to bring live theater into the lives of everyone.

Spreading the Joy

Sarah Jane Scheirer channels her lifelong love for creativity into teaching classes at Paint and Pour, in the vibrant Arts Center of Greenwood. People of all ages and every skill level can lose themselves in the joy of creativity in these classes.

Sarah Jane is a successful watercolorist who shares her love for art by teaching in other settings, including a retirement center. She loves bringing the joy of creativity to everyone through classes, unique events, ceramics workshops, and any place where she can help people discover the creativity that may be hidden inside.

Others who have dedicated their careers to supporting artists and bringing art to everyone include Anne Craig, the founding director of the Arts Center. She and her successor, Sylvia Martin, the current Executive Director of Arts Council of Greenwood County, shared a vision of the Arts Center of Greenwood as the community’s cultural heart.

Anne’s goal, a comprehensive cultural district in Uptown, has been realized through the development of the Emerald Triangle, where cultural education and community growth are always a priority. Sylvia has expanded that dream with new and innovative ways to bring the community to the Arts Center—and arts to the community.

No tour of the arts in Greenwood would be complete without a visit to Main & Maxwell, the brainchild of potter and educator Laura Bachinski. Showcasing the art of more than 60 potters, painters, jewelry makers, fiber artists, woodworkers and more, Main & Maxwell is a centerpiece of Uptown’s shopping and events. With artist demonstrations, special sales, music, and support for events like Artwalk, the gallery keeps visitors coming to Uptown. The venue also offers classes for people of all ages in a variety of media.

Whatever your interest, from live music to culinary arts to painting, Greenwood has plenty to offer—and so many stories to tell.