ArtFields Collection Exhibition Opens in Columbia: A Celebration of Past Winners and Opportunity for Local Engagement

The 701 Center for Contemporary Art and ArtFields have partnered to present 'Taking Root: The ArtFields Collection' in Columbia. The exhibition, which opened on Thursday, features past winners of the Lake City festival. The festival, started in 2013, showcases artists from 12 Southern states and offers cash prizes. The ArtFields Collection purchases the winning pieces for display.

Artist Michael Morris attended the opening reception. He highlighted the emotional impact of art, comparing it to mathematical concepts. The 701 Center for Contemporary Art, a provider of free public cultural programming, hosted the exhibition in Columbia.

ArtFields transforms Lake City into a walkable art gallery. The week-long festival begins this year on Friday, April 26. Visitors can vote for the People's Choice Awards. A panel of professionals selects the winners of the $25,000 and $50,000 prizes.

Harry Lesesne, director of the Darla Moore Foundation, spoke about the need for city-to-city partnerships at the reception. He urged the community to engage in this year's competition. Shea Johnson, a Black artist and 701 CCA volunteer, spoke about the event's role in promoting underrepresented voices.

ArtFields Fine Arts Manager Kyle C. Coleman discussed the exhibition's potential to inspire both creatives and visitors. He noted that the space welcomes both seasoned enthusiasts and newcomers. The Lake City festival aims to support artists in showcasing their work to a broader audience.

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