The Savannah Art Scene
Written by Kayla Lybbert. Photos and graphic by Kayla Lybbert.
The rich culture and history that abounds in Savannah make it a fitting place for an art school. Many are drawn here to create, and it’s clear why: there’s inspiration everywhere. I had the opportunity to investigate art museums and exhibitions around town. The search for spaces of concentrated masterpieces led me to old favorites and fresh sites alike. I’ve gathered my thoughts, observations and insights on multiple locations throughout the city.
Telfair Museums
This exploration would not feel complete without the inclusion of the Telfair Museum and Academy. These two contrasting spaces showcase both ongoing and revolving collections. There’s always something new to see. With the student discount, admission to access both the Jepson Center and the academy is 20 dollars.
Jepson Center
The bright and modern Jepson Center currently boasts five temporary exhibitions. I will touch on four of them.
Biometric Sublime
This interactive exhibit comes from Atlanta-based artist Bojana Ginn. A projection of organic shapes draws your attention immediately when you walk into the dark room. Pink and purple blobs slowly dance around each other. The shape and composition of this art piece are purely dictated by museum-goers. A small touch screen allows anyone to move the shapes from where they stand. Ginn is able to convey the relationship between humans and technology in a physical, direct and beautiful way.
A Seat at the Table
A colorful and invasive exhibition crafted by SCAD alum Julia Roland evokes uneasiness through the subjects’ expressions and poses. These colorful paintings use varying canvas shapes, pushing spatial boundaries literally and figuratively. The themes of self-expression and identity present in Roland’s paintings are truly thought-provoking. Seeing a recent alum’s work spotlighted in Savannah is a gratifying, full-circle experience.
Making Marks 2025
The Jepson Center highlights the Making Marks program annually. This project brings people from the community together of varying ages, backgrounds and experience to create art. Classic media such as paint and graphite aid in showing the range of perspectives this community holds. Most notable in this collection are the tapestries made with a mesh of colorful fabric. The collaboration carried out in these pieces is emphasized in their tangibility.
The Art of the Character: Highlights from the Glenn Close Costume Collection
I remember seeing this exhibition advertised months ago, and my high expectations were not let down. Select costume pieces from Close’s personal collection, starting from her first film, are curated with elegant care. Everything from the design of the layout to the mannequins’ paper-like hair communicates the relationship between character and clothing exceptionally. There are a variety of pieces, including accessories, shoes and undergarments, in addition to typical outfits. The gallery is a celebration of how the talented Glenn Close is accentuated by the beautiful work of various costume designers.
Telfair Academy
There are predominantly permanent exhibitions at the Telfair Academy. It functions as a period showcase with pieces from the 19th and 20th centuries. Starting from the basement, this grandiose mansion holds a sculpture, a rotunda, and an upper-level gallery. Exploring the interior of this historical building is as much a part of the experience as viewing the art. You are able to fully immerse yourself as instrumental music fills the background and benches adorn the galleries. The peaceful stateliness of this manor is a wonderful place to study neoclassical art and gain inspiration.
A.T. Hun Art Gallery
Whether you like it or not, Savannah is rampant in tourism. I decided to check the A.T. Hun Art Gallery out for the full city experience. Pleasantly surprised would be an understatement. Eccentric, colorful decor immediately sets an amusing tone for the small shop. Popular contemporary artists fill every usable inch of the walls. Paintings, photography and ink artworks leave no lack of creativity. You can get happily lost in the eclectic nature of this downtown gem. This gallery manages to have a distinct personality while catering to the general public.
Pink Raven Art Gallery
The vibrant exterior of this quaint gallery is just a taste of what waits inside. Sicilian pottery and tapestries cover every available surface. In addition to this, spotlighted craftsmanship is an array of local art. Many depict Savannah itself through landmarks and locals. The environment is immediately friendly as contributors frequent the exhibition often. The personal touch of this gallery crafts an uplifting insight into the community.
Savannah African Art Museum
This museum has captured my attention since I first passed by its sunny exterior. Admission is free, and I would recommend joining a tour. The guides are professional and thoroughly knowledgeable in each of the 1,000-plus art pieces. The richness of African art is magnified by the historical context provided by these tours. The use of symbolism communicates beliefs and stories in order to continue tradition. Each item’s original intent is to physically represent African culture in order to educate. This large collection is an incredible public resource that highlights art not often taught in-depth.
It is important that we support our artistic communities. These galleries and museums offer a tailored view of lively Savannah, but there is so much more to discover. My investigation of the art scene is in no way complete. I encourage you to seek places around town that inspire you. Once you find what makes your creative soul stir, don’t let go of it.
